Split step and lateral shuffle at the line

Setup

1. Place a cone at the middle of the kitchen line and one a few big steps either side of it.
2. The working player starts at the middle cone, paddle up. The feeder stands at the kitchen line opposite with a basket of balls.

How it runs

1. As the feeder makes contact, the player does a small split step and lands balanced on both feet.
2. The feeder dinks to either side. The player shuffles sideways along the line, without crossing the feet, and dinks the ball back.
3. After each dink, shuffle back to the middle cone and split-step again for the next feed.
4. Work for 30 seconds, rest for 30 seconds while the next player goes. Four to six sets each.

Coaching points

• Time the split step with the feeder's contact, not after the ball is on its way.
• Stay low with the knees bent and the paddle up between the shoulders.
• Shuffle with small, quick steps; keep the hips facing the net.
• Set the feet before the dink: a balanced player hits a softer, lower ball.
• Stay out of the kitchen while shuffling unless the ball has bounced and you need to step in to play it.

Common mistakes

• Split-stepping late, so the first move is slow.
• Crossing the feet or turning to run, then losing balance at the line.
• Dinking while still moving and popping the ball up.