The split step is often overlooked by
beginner/intermediate players but it is a vital part of a players pre shot
preparation. The Split Step
charges your leg with energy by putting the muscles “on stretch” (when you
land), so as to allow a quick response in any given direction.
A
Split Step is like a hopscotch step, (that is the double step after the hop).
You should Split Step just before your
opponent hits the ball. You should
have landed with both feet on the ground in time with the opponents contact with
the ball. You in effect, land in the ready position all be it slightly more
compressed.
To practice this try to sound out aloud
“hit” when your practice partner makes contact with the ball.
As you become more proficient at this start to say “and hit”.
Hopefully you can train yourself then to skip step on “and” and then land on
“hit” being ready, charged up for the reaction to the shot.
If you can persevere, it wont be long and it will become second nature
and you will feel lost without your split step.