Split step and bandeja: movement and technique

What this lesson covers

The split step serves as the foundation for court speed. A small bounce on the toes at the moment the opponent contacts the ball allows for rapid adjustment to any shot trajectory. Without this movement, players often find themselves flat-footed, forcing awkward lunges that compromise the next shot. The split step applies to both the transition from the serve and defensive play from the back of the court.

Effective bandeja placement targets the back half of the fence or the front part of the side glass. This forces the opponent to defend from deep in the corner or against the back glass. While cross-court remains the primary direction, hitting down the line is acceptable when it buys time to recover the net position. Tennis players often struggle to keep the bandeja low because they contact the ball too high, similar to a serve. Opening the racket face and adding slice helps keep the ball low at the opponent's feet.

Approaching the net works best as a pair. After a short ball, hitting a lob allows both players to move forward together. If one player charges the net, the partner must follow to cover open gaps. A setup volley into the middle of the court often creates the opening needed to win the point.