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When exactly do you split-step at the net?
Split-step as the opponent hits, wherever you are. Then move.
You are moving forward to the net after a serve. When should your feet land in the split step?
Split-step as the opponent hits, wherever you are. Then move.
Why
The split step is a small hop that lands both feet just as the opponent strikes the ball, so you are balanced and can push off in any direction. Its timing is tied to their contact, not to your position on the court, if you are still moving forward when they hit, you split where you are. Land too early and you are flat-footed by the time the ball comes; land too late and you are still in the air. Watch their racket, hop as it meets the ball, and move.
What this means at your level
Beginner
Watch their racket. When it hits the ball, do a little hop and land on both feet. Then go to the ball.
Intermediate
The hop is small: a few centimetres. It is about timing and balance, not height.
Advanced
Split-step on every single shot, including the ones you think are coming straight to you. The one you skip is the one that does not.
Common questions
You are moving forward to the net after a serve. When should your feet land in the split step?
As the opponent makes contact with the ball. Split-step as the opponent hits, wherever you are. Then move. The split step is a small hop that lands both feet just as the opponent strikes the ball, so you are balanced and can push off in any direction. Its timing is tied to their contact, not to your position on the court, if you are still moving forward when they hit, you split where you are. Land too early and you are flat-footed by the time the ball comes; land too late and you are still in the air. Watch their racket, hop as it meets the ball, and move.
Why not when you reach the net position?
The net position is a place, not a moment. If you split when you arrive but they have not hit, you are standing still when they do.
What should a beginner do here?
Watch their racket. When it hits the ball, do a little hop and land on both feet. Then go to the ball.
How does this change for an advanced player?
Split-step on every single shot, including the ones you think are coming straight to you. The one you skip is the one that does not.
Puzzles like this one
They lobbed you deep. Smash it or play the bandeja?
Deep ball, high hands: bandeja. The shot exists to keep you at the net, not to win the point.
beginnerThe ball is at your feet at the net. What now?
A ball below the net cannot be attacked. Block it deep and wait for one above the tape.
beginnerThe ball is coming off the back glass. When do you hit it?
Move back with the ball, let it pass you, hit it in front of your body.