Receiving footwork

Hi Alois

I intend to concentrate primarily on improving my footwork the coming year and had one question.

When I am waiting to receive a serve, I am in my ready position in the left corner (as a right hander).  As the server tosses the ball and is about to make contact with the ball, what should I be doing in terms of footwork?

A) remain in the ready position and do not commit until I see the direction/speed/spin of the serve

B) start taking small baby steps forward

C) hop in place so as to not be flat footed and to be ready to move my feet the instance the serve is made

D) something else?

I pretty much do A) at the moment.  Watching professionals play, they seem to do B). 

Thanks!

Ji-Soo

Hi Ji-Soo,

If you watch Wang Hao he moves a little but doesn't make any unnecessary movements.  He simply moves a little so as to get closer to the position he thinks the ball will come.  

He keeps his head still and watches closely where the ball is coming. If you are jumping around it is more difficult to see the ball clearly.  It also means that f you are moving in the wrong direction when the ball comes you are in big trouble.  Stay well balanced when receiving.

So, I think what you are doing is probably good. There is no need for unnecessary movement.