When to pivot

Jasper Low Asked 2 years ago

Hi Alois, I just played another competitive match not long ago and I actually won 3-0! Despite the victory, I noticed a couple of points where I tried to pivot forehand while the ball came back to me quite low over the net. I completely lost my balance and I missed the pivot forehand shots. So I was thinking when should I play a backhand and when should I pivot?

Btw I have 3 more matches to go :) Wish me luck!

Alois Rosario Answered 2 years ago

Hi Jasper,

Well done on the win and also for thinking more about how to develop your game.

Making the decision to pivot is something that you need to take one ball at a time.

In general think about pivoting only if your forehand is a much better option than your backhand.  IF the ball is higher and allows you time to move and make a stronger forehand then take that opportunity.  You also think about the position you have for the next ball.  When you pivot you are leaving your forehand corner open.

This is something that you need to practice win training.  Having options in training of balls that you are able to pivot on and others that are not.  There will always be some that are close to both so in that situation, make a decision and commit to it.