Connect a deep return with controlled forward movement and a correctly timed split step.
Instructional video
Bring Back Your Tennis Split Step for Better Returns
By Selkirk TV
Connects the return of serve with balanced forward movement and split-step timing.
Equipment
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Pickleball court
Setup
A server begins at the baseline, a returner starts several feet behind the opposite baseline, and a feeder or observer stands safely off court to cue the next contact.
How to run it
1. The server delivers a cooperative legal serve.
2. The returner contacts in front and sends a high-margin return deep through the middle.
3. The returner moves forward immediately but stays under control.
4. The observer claps or says “hit” to represent the third-shot contact; the returner split-steps on the cue.
5. Freeze to check balance and position. Rotate roles after six returns, then progress to a live third shot.
Coach Dave’s cues
Start with enough room behind the baseline. Let the return buy time. Move through the shot, then split as the opponent contacts—not at a memorized court location.
Watch for
Returning short while sprinting forward, running through the cue, stopping too early, or moving before the serve has bounced. Keep the off-court observer clear of play.