approach footworkmoving forwardsplit-step
Stopping to Hit a Short Ball Delays Your Move to the Net
An approach shot does not end in front of the ball; it is movement that continues through contact toward the next position.
Start with this check
An abrupt stop before the ball leaves weight behind, forcing you to start again after contact and costing net position.
Try these steps in order
- Get behind the bounce early so you have room to hit forward.
- Move through the ball toward the target with steps that let you stay balanced.
- Complete the split-step near the service line before the opponent makes contact.
Bottom line
Good approach footwork turns contact and forward movement into one continuous sequence instead of two separate actions.
Reviewed sources
Technical evidence is shown separately from community topic signals.
Technical evidence
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