Stepping into the ball has been a universally accepted practice in tennis for many years. However in the last decade or so, or since the advent of hitting from the open stance, fewer players can be seen stepping into the ball. Is this a benefit or a distraction from better hitting in tennis?
A cursory analysis of many of today’s top tennis players shows that they stand basically flat-footed when they swing and hit the ball. They often remain in a front-facing position during the hit or take only a partial side-facing position to execute the shot.
In many cases, the players actually believe that they shift their weight forward when they go through the process of getting into and executing the groundstroke when, in reality, they do not. In these cases they often shift their weight sideways but not into the hit.
It seems like many of today’s players do not feel that it is important to step into the ball in the forehand or backhand groundstroke. This is a major error, since stepping into the ball is a very important force-producing action. In addition, it helps you establish a strong base of support to execute the shot accurately.
Since the backswing often takes place as you step into the ball, it does not take extra time to execute this action. In essence, you accomplish two things at the same time and as a bonus, have a more powerful shot.
By stepping into the ball, you establish the initial momentum of the body and begin the build-up of forces that will culminate in the forward acceleration of the racquet up until contact. It can contribute anywhere from 20-30% of the total force generated in the hit.
The key to executing an effective stepping-in action is to first get into a side-facing position from which you can then forcefully shift weight and step into the ball. This cannot be done if you maintain a front-facing position. Do not be duped into believing that the front-facing position is the most effective way to hit the ball. It is not! It does not produce as much power as is possible from the side-facing position.
Once you have developed the ability to step into a side-facing position for both the forehand and backhand, you will enhance your groundstrokes tremendously. For more information, see Explosive Tennis: The Forehand And Backhand and Build a Better Athlete.