How the Tennis Gods Move: The First Step

[johnyandell]

Let's discuss Daniel McCain's, "How the Tennis Gods Move: The First Step"

[tennis_chiro]

Typo

There is a typo/error in the third paragraph of the "Turning During the Split" section:

When this happens, the feet land in staggered fashion, with the foot closest to the ball landing first.

I think Mr. McCain meant to say the foot FARTHEST from the ball landing first.

It's important because this is where people get confused between the correct use of the split step and the "Gravity Step" or Drop Step.

I contend you use the Gravity Step because you actually got caught "Flat footed" and landed on both feet before you were able to start to make your move. If you have done that, the Gravity Step is the fastest way to make your move, but if you have identified the direction you need to go at the top of the jump in the split step just as you are beginning to descend, then you make a "jab step" with the foot closest to the ball as your body falls in the direction you want to go while the foot farthest from the ball exerts the ground force to propel you, followed immediately by the "Crossover Step".

This is what we see all the best players in the world doing whenever they can.

don

[johnyandell]

Correct. That's probably my error...

[mikebeck]

Any ideas on applying these different first steps?

[johnyandell]

Mike, Good question. Best way is with a ball machine. The pivot step is usually for closer balls. The drop step is when you need to go further and are likely to sprint.