Figure 8 Drill for Footwork, Shot Selection & Rally Endurance

Key Points

• Drill Overview:
  The Figure 8 drill is used at both junior and professional levels.Involves two players alternating crosscourt and down-the-line shots.Focuses on intensity, control, and repetition across both forehand and backhand sides.
• Variations of the Drill:
  Standard: One player hits crosscourt, the other down the line.Progressions:Two crosscourts, one down-the-line.Two down-the-lines, one crosscourt.One crosscourt, one down-the-line (1–1).Players switch roles to practice changing directions from both sides.
• Skill Development Areas:
  Footwork: Continuous movement with no pauses; encourages explosive steps and recovery.Focus & Targeting: Players aim for cones/targets to develop precise shot placement and strategic awareness.Consistency: Goal is to keep the rally going as long as possible with high shot quality and margin.Height & Margin: Encourages using safe height over the net with directional intent.
• Physical & Mental Conditioning:
  Builds lung capacity, stamina, and mental toughness under fatigue.Simulates pressure situations like break points and long rallies.Reinforces the discipline of playing every ball—no stopping, even if it looks out.
• Proven Effectiveness:
  Used with Novak Djokovic, Ana Ivanovic, and other top players.Builds foundational habits that transfer directly to match play.Helps juniors develop physical intensity and concentration from a young age.
• Coach Setup & Role:
  Coach can act as a hitting wall (in one corner) or feed while players alternate.Targets placed behind coach or along baseline for visual aiming.
• Drill Duration Suggestions:
  Beginners: 30 seconds to 1 minute.Intermediate: 1.5 to 2 minutes.Advanced/Pro: 3 minutes or longer with no rest.
• Key Coaching Points:
  Emphasize early preparation, eye on the ball, and extra recovery steps.Correct players who stop too early by reinforcing the need to continue regardless of bounce or line call.