Defensive to offensive transition

Key Points

• Drill Structure:
  Player alternates between a deep ball (off the back leg) and a short ball (aggressive, approach-style shot).Drill is done on both the forehand and backhand sides using cones to mark targets and positioning.
• Footwork Emphasis:
  Players run forward to the short ball with momentum (not side-stepping), allowing more power and better court coverage.After the shot, players must recover quickly to the center and prepare for the next deep ball.
• Purpose of the Drill:
  Teaches transition from defense (deep ball) to offense (short ball).Builds habits of explosive movement, shot preparation, and positioning.Used effectively with juniors and professionals (e.g., Novak Djokovic, Ana Ivanovic).
• Target Awareness:
  Cones are used as visual cues to train players to aim and choose specific targets—deep or short—during matches.Reinforces repetition and shot discipline.
• Shot Contact Height:
  On short balls, players are taught to contact the ball around shoulder height for maximum power.Avoid letting the ball drop to waist height, which reduces shot effectiveness.
• Inside-Out / Inside-In Forehands:
  Drill progression includes mixing inside-out and inside-in forehands to simulate real match situations.Promotes pattern recognition and decision-making.
• Technical Correction Example:
  If a ball is missed long, it's often due to planting the feet too early and opening the body too soon.Emphasis is on taking one extra step, watching the bounce, and staying closed through contact for better control and direction.