Smash defence: two against one

Setup

1. Two attackers (A1, A2) stand in the rear court on one side, one on each half.
2. One defender (B1) sets up in a central defensive base on the other side, roughly halfway between the short service line and the back line.
3. Attackers smash at the defender's body and sides, never at the head, and hold back if the defender is off balance or unready.

How it runs

1. B1 lifts high to start. Whichever attacker is on that side smashes.
2. B1 defends with a high, deep lift, crosscourt or straight, and the next smash comes from that side.
3. Work in blocks of 30 to 45 seconds, then rotate so everyone takes a turn defending. Rest at least as long as the work.
4. Second stage: B1 may block short or drive flat to an empty space; the attackers play it out.

Coaching points

• Low, wide base with the weight forward on the balls of the feet; the racket in front at about chest height.
• Backhand grip as the default ready grip for body smashes; most body shots are best taken on the backhand side.
• Short swing: use the pace of the smash and a firm wrist; a big backswing is too slow.
• Lift high and deep enough that the attacker has to move, rather than flat to mid-court.
• Reset the base between every shot; the defender's feet keep moving even when the racket is still.

Common mistakes

• Standing tall with the racket down by the knees.
• Backing away from the smash instead of holding ground and taking it in front.
• Lifting short to the middle, so the next smash is steeper and easier.
• Flinching from body smashes instead of meeting them on the backhand.