Staying low

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 15 years ago

Hi Alois

Aside from receiving serve (which I will master once your DVD comes out!), the main thing I want to focus on until the end of the year is footwork and body position. 

I've read up to my eyeballs on the theory and I'm pretty sure I understand all the elements.  In particular, I need to ensure that my stance is as wide as possible (while allowing free movement) and my head should be kept low and steady. 

The thing is, when I am waiting to receive serve, I have a perfect crouched position.  But I find that once a rally starts, all my ideas about keeping a wide stance and crouching low is forgotten...it's like I can't focus on my posture AND my stroke technique at the same time. 

Aside from just reminding myself between every point, is there some way one can expedite the process by which maintaining a low posture and wide stance during rallies becomes second nature???

Thanks!

Ji-Soo

Alois Rosario Answered 15 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

The short answer is no.  This is something that comes only with a lot of training.  Your leg strength has to get better slowly to maintain this position during a rally.

Do lots of footwork drills in the low leg position.  I still work on this technique with some of the players who are at a National level. 

You have described the concept well so I think you have a good understanding of what is required.  Now keep going with the hard work, it will improve!