Thanatos
Semi-Pro
I'm trying to advance from 4.0 to a 4.5 and I think one of the most important element that will help me make that transition is footwork. It seems like everyone is posting about others elements of the game (ie. serve, fh, bh, volleys, etc) while neglecting proper footwork.
If you've read my past posts, I've been having problems with ball anticipation. I've just recently implemented a technique written by Michael Friedman called Step, Step, Rip! and already I've noticed a 25% improvement in speed and hitting cleaner groundstrokes. There is alot of details and examples in the article, but the gist of is -to always take at least 2 steps before hitting the ball- Below is a cusory excerpt from the article. I would like your feedback and experience on any footwork aspects. Thanks
"Basically it works like this. The "Step, Step, Rip" helps you develop the ability to time the ball in a new way. The rhythm in your feet is used as a timing device to trigger your swing, and to do this at the exact instant that maximizes pace and consistency.
There are two steps in the "Step, Step, Rip." A step with your right foot that judges your position relative to the ball. Then a step with the left foot that triggers the actual swing. The second step can be either into the ball, or more to the side in a semi-open stance. Timing these steps is the secret to triggering the swing at the right time.
The correct timing or rhythm is achieved by correlating the steps to the bounce of the ball. The rhythm follows this pattern: "Bounce," then immediately, "Step, Step, Hit." The first step comes a fraction of a second after the bounce. The way to develop this fundamental rhythmic pattern is by actually saying the words to yourself as you play: "Bounce, Step, Step, Hit." It may sound simple, but the result is very powerful. Coordinating the words inside your head with the bounce and steps makes the timing of the swing virtually automatic. I have more than one student who swear by it's magic power."
If you've read my past posts, I've been having problems with ball anticipation. I've just recently implemented a technique written by Michael Friedman called Step, Step, Rip! and already I've noticed a 25% improvement in speed and hitting cleaner groundstrokes. There is alot of details and examples in the article, but the gist of is -to always take at least 2 steps before hitting the ball- Below is a cusory excerpt from the article. I would like your feedback and experience on any footwork aspects. Thanks
"Basically it works like this. The "Step, Step, Rip" helps you develop the ability to time the ball in a new way. The rhythm in your feet is used as a timing device to trigger your swing, and to do this at the exact instant that maximizes pace and consistency.
There are two steps in the "Step, Step, Rip." A step with your right foot that judges your position relative to the ball. Then a step with the left foot that triggers the actual swing. The second step can be either into the ball, or more to the side in a semi-open stance. Timing these steps is the secret to triggering the swing at the right time.
The correct timing or rhythm is achieved by correlating the steps to the bounce of the ball. The rhythm follows this pattern: "Bounce," then immediately, "Step, Step, Hit." The first step comes a fraction of a second after the bounce. The way to develop this fundamental rhythmic pattern is by actually saying the words to yourself as you play: "Bounce, Step, Step, Hit." It may sound simple, but the result is very powerful. Coordinating the words inside your head with the bounce and steps makes the timing of the swing virtually automatic. I have more than one student who swear by it's magic power."
