Two Checkpoints to Fix a Slow Split-Step

Bottom line: fix a slow split-step by checking two things. First, start the split early enough that you are landing as the opponent strikes the ball. Second, land in a balanced athletic base so your first step can go in any direction.

Checkpoint 1: Time It to Opponent Contact

A slow split-step is often late, not lazy. The checkpoint is simple: begin the small hop just before the opponent hits, so you are not still drifting when the ball leaves their strings. If you wait until after contact, your body must stop first and then react, which costs time. Drill: Rally or hand-feed while a coach calls “split” as the opponent begins the forward swing. The player must land as the opponent contacts the ball, then make the first recovery or movement step immediately after reading direction.

Checkpoint 2: Land Balanced

The second checkpoint is the landing. Land on the balls of the feet, knees bent, upper body facing the opponent, and feet about shoulder-width or slightly wider. The goal is not a high jump; it is a quick, quiet landing that lets the player push explosively toward the next ball. Drill: Two-coach direction drill. The player starts in a ready position, split-steps in balance, then reacts to a forehand or backhand call and moves to the ball. Reset after each hit and repeat until the landing stays stable before the first step.

Sources

Practice the Split Step: https://ushsta.org/practice-the-split-step/

Strength & Conditioning: Tennis Specific Drills to Improve Quickness On Court: https://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/Improve-Your-Game/Sport-Science/114705_Strength__Conditioning_Tennis_Specific_Drills_to_Improve_Quickness_On_Court/

Serve and volley – the split step: https://www.tennisresources.com/serve-and-volley-the-split-step/

Use the Split Step to Improve Your Tennis Game: https://www.racmn.com/blog/learning-more-about-the-tennis-split-step

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