Active Preparation Using Small Steps

Key Points

• Iga uses small steps when hitting
• Using small steps helps you move faster to the ball and gain energy before hitting the shot
• You can decelerate faster when you get to the ball while using less energy
• The best players are “investing a small amount of energy” by constantly moving with small steps so they can stop and start faster and be better prepared when hitting shots
• Small steps make it easier to stop and decelerate at a specific spot, rather than taking 1 or 2 big steps
• It’s easier to be dynamic and drive through with the legs when taking small steps
• Keeping the mind focused on the process of little steps can help the player stay calm and present and alleviate nerves
• Start with feeding the ball right to the player and then progress to feeding to one side so the player moves, takes little steps and then hits
• Start to take small steps right when the ball is bouncing
• The progression is then side to side feeding, continuing to faocus on small steps when the ball lands
• Feed randomly to make it more match realistic
• Side step right after the shot to stop the bad habit of turning the hips when doing a crossover step
• Turning the hips is a “trap”, as you can recover faster, but it makes it very hard to change direction
• Progress to a crossover step without turning the hips and keep the hips facing the court
• The tension you generate from using fast feet and small steps can transfer to your upper body
• Try to stay focused on fast feet with the lower body and staying relaxed with your arms
• Work on throwing the ball to someone while taking fast, small steps
• From constantly using small steps in training, Iga Swiatek began to use it naturally in matches without being aware