Doubles Footwork

andrew brand Asked 14 years ago

hi alois and jeff.  i have improved quite a bit now with a year of coaching, and 2 seasons of matchplay under my belt.  However, i still have not had much experience or advice on doubles play.  Should i be hitting then stepping back, or hitting then sidestepping, i never know the best thing to do. most of the time i have to rush back to the table when its my shot and im not in great position, so i end up sometimes taking backhand shots in the forehand area etc.  This is for 2 right-handed players usually, there are virtually no lefties in my team/club.

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Andrew,

Which way you move depends on how you and partner move best.

Some pairs prefer to move back and forward and others prefer to move sideways.  The most important thing is that you do move to allow your partner enough space to play their shot.

Don't however too far away so that it makes it difficult to get back yourself for your next shot.  You will see that the best doubles combinations move together a lot of the time.  If you are getting caught playing forehands on the backhand side you should move backwards rather than sideways out wide to your forehand.  This way you may be able to come in and play more forehands.