Forehand technique: preparation and footwork

What this lesson covers

Early preparation defines the forehand. As soon as the ball trajectory is identified, the shoulders rotate and the racket moves back into a compact position. The non-dominant hand stays across the body to maintain this rotation. This preparation remains identical whether the ball is struck before or after the glass.

Footwork choices depend on the available time. A neutral stance, where the player is side-on to the ball, provides the most stability and is preferred when time allows for moving forward. An open stance serves as a secondary option for when the player is stretched or lacks time to set up. Avoiding laziness in footwork ensures a stable base for consistent, flat contact.

Late preparation causes most errors. A split step at the moment of the opponent's contact allows for an immediate reaction. Watching the ball without preparing until it bounces leads to rushed swings and mistakes. Players improve their consistency by selecting shots within their current capability rather than forcing power from difficult positions.