One of the biggest mistakes amateur players make is standing as if their feet are stuck in cement. (image below)

When you watch the pros, you’ll notice that they always look light on their feet. Great footwork is not about being faster. It is about being in the right position.

Here’s the rule I want you to remember:

Your paddle should never leave your peripheral vision.

If it does, there’s a good chance you’re out of position.

Of course, the ball will sometimes get behind us. When that happens, most players simply reach with their wrist. Instead, use a drop step to create space so you can get your body behind the ball and keep it out in front.

The next key is keeping the ball in front of your hips whenever possible. This is where you become the most dangerous because you can do almost anything. You can speed up, dink, reset, or even throw up a lob.

The moment you start reaching for the ball, your opponents know your options are limited.

Stay light on your feet and move more than you think you need to. I would estimate that about 90 percent of the balls players pop up or dump into the net stem from poor footwork.

The best players are not always the most talented. They are often just the ones who consistently put themselves in the best position to succeed.

Here’s your video!

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Till next week,

-Tanner

P.S. I’m currently competing in the APP tournament in Chicago. I have some pretty big shoes to fill because I’ll be playing alongside Simone Jardim (Former world #1 until ALW took her spot). I’m ready for the challenge, and I’m especially looking forward to mixed doubles. Let’s see what we can do!