Horrible Footwork need advice..

[aaron_h27]

My footwork is really bad what can I do to improve this? I'm in shape I play about everyday but my coach says my main problem is my feet. I can sprint to dropshots really fast but like groundstrokes I end up being off-balance how can I work on this? sometimes I split step too late/early

Also will jump roping help my footwork?

 

[LeeD]

Before you worry about your little feet, think.... TURN SHOULDERS!
First and foremost, any level of tennis. TURN SHOULDERS. The rest will follow.
Of course, keep good posture, don't run like a runner, run like a tennis player.

 

[aaron_h27]

Thanks how can I make sure im getting a proper shoulder turn?

Also my coach sounds like a broken record saying bend your knees but I notice the pros dont really bend that much or maybe I just dont see it How important is bending your knees?

 

[LeeD]

Look at vids of the pros.
Most turn shoulders sideways on forehand, any feet stance from totally open to closed, and most turn more than sideways while waiting for a backhand.
If your shoulders do the right thing, your feet will follow. They can't help but try to line up somewhat, given some time. If there's no time, only the shoulder turn is important.

 

[aaron_h27]

Thanks one more question how important is bending your knees?

 

[EP1998]

A wide base is most important. the key is you want a bunch of quick adjustment steps to the ball but a wide base at contact. this makes you balanced and strong.

http://www.youtube.com/user/servedoc#p/u/9/7Tl8Fy7jX8k
http://www.youtube.com/user/servedoc#p/u/0/26wKS0udwwg

the second one is a little more technical but good info.

you do turn your shoulders also - its basically a chain of things that happens.

jumping rope helps but you need to work on the awareness and specific movement to the ball patterns. you have to practice this just like strokes but it will happen.

 

[LeeD]

Bending ze nees is sorta important, but if any one of us can hit like Federer in his warmups....he doesn't bend knees at all, but spreads feet 20" apart and turns the shoulders, we'd be another full level up from where we are.

 

[forehandshanker]

Improving your footwork can mean a lot of different things. Does it mean split stepping on every one of your opponent's shots? Bending your knees for low balls? Making tiny adjustment steps as you decelerate as you're about to begin your swing? How you pivot on an open stance? How you transfer your weight on a closed stance? How you rebalance yourself if you change direction? Positioning yourself when you recover? All these details ultimately get down getting yourself in the best position to hit the shot you want. Ask your coach if you can work on specific moves to specific shots (e.g. Defending a high bouncer to the BH). Don't settle for platitudes!