Butterfly Drill: Pro Tennis Footwork & Short Ball Training

Key Points

• Purpose of the Drill:
  Improve footwork, depth control, and attack on short ballsReinforce the correct use of back leg for deep shots and front leg for short attacking balls
• Drill Pattern:
  Deep forehand → short backhand → deep backhand → short forehandAlternating sides encourages full-court movement and decision-makingPlayers use cones as target markers to practice hitting with purpose
• Footwork Emphasis:
  Back leg: Used to stabilize and power deep groundstrokesFront leg (jump or “kangaroo” step): Used to explode into short balls and generate forward momentumDrill promotes constant movement, recovery, and balance on each shot
• Shot Placement Options:
  Deep shots aim cross-court with marginShort balls can be hit down the line or cross-court based on tactical intentEncouraged to mix direction each round (e.g., one round down the line, one round cross-court)
• Power + Safety Margin:
  Players are encouraged to hit aggressively but safely, using height over the net and aiming slightly shorter for controlled power
• Drill Volume:
  Typically 12-ball sets, can be extended (16–20) for fitter playersEncourages endurance, precision, and mental focus
• Development Benefits:
  Used regularly with Dejan’s top juniors and national championsProven to enhance movement efficiency, accuracy, and tactical awareness