A simple change in footwork will put you in perfect position for your inside-out forehand

PROBLEM
You’re late getting to the ball on your inside-out forehand. As a result, you don’t hit the shot properly and end up out of position and on the defensive for the rest of the point. This usually happens because you use side steps to move to the ball, which dramatically slows you down.

SOLUTION
The footwork needed to hit an inside-out forehand is just as important as the stroke itself. When moving to hit the shot, the first step is crucial. Immediately get your body sideways to the net by bringing your right foot behind your left (left foot behind your right for lefties). Now you can literally run backwards by backpedaling toward the ball and setting up for the shot after planting your back foot. Most club players attempt to get into position by shuffling with side steps, which not only slows you down, but leaves you with more work to do once you get to the ball. By running backward, you’ll be ready in plenty of time and can explode into the shot, leaving you in good position to recover for the next ball.

Article by Dayne Gingrich, Photos by Clark Jones/AP Photo – Tennis.com