This exercise expands the partner task for split-step timing to include lateral movement to the ball and then covering the starting position. Two players stand opposite each other with enough distance between them and throw a ball to one another from overhead downwards. The throws are placed slightly to the side so that the catching player has to move out toward the ball after the split step.
The split step is linked to the other player’s throwing action. After landing, the movement to the ball follows immediately, the ball is caught in a controlled way and thrown back. The starting position is then taken up again so the player is ready for the next action.
The lateral deviation stays deliberately small at first. As with the return, the placement of the incoming ball determines how far the movement outward needs to be. This connects perception, split-step timing and the lateral reaction without a racket at first.
Training Goal
- Link the split step to the other player’s throwing action
- Recognize the direction of the incoming ball early
- React immediately sideways to the ball after landing
- Catch the ball in a controlled position
- Cover the starting position again after the action
Coaching Keys
- Throw slightly outward: Place the ball so that a lateral movement is necessary, but the task still remains manageable in a controlled way.
- Link the split step to the throwing action: Watch the other player’s movement and match your timing to it.
- Jump small and active: A low jump height makes the direct transition into the lateral movement easier.
- Move to the ball: Cover the lateral distance with the legs instead of reaching for the ball only with the arm.
- Cover again after the action: After catching and throwing back, quickly take up the starting position and watch for the next action.
Possible Corrections
The throws are too central:
Shift the placement slightly outward. An obvious lateral movement should be needed to catch the ball.
The throws are placed too far outward:
Reduce the lateral deviation. Split step, movement to the ball and catching should remain smoothly and controlledly connected.
The split step happens independently of the throw:
Reduce the throwing tempo and focus attention on the other player’s throwing action. Derive the timing from this action.
The split step happens too late:
Watch the throwing movement earlier and time the jump so that the lateral reaction is immediately possible after landing.
The ball is reached only with an extended arm:
Initiate the movement to the ball earlier and create a good catching position with the legs.
After catching, the player stays outside:
Explicitly include covering the starting position again in the task: move to the ball, catch, throw back and be ready again for the next action.
Progressive Build-Up
1. Small lateral deviation
First throw the ball slightly outward at a steady tempo. The focus is on the connection between split step, lateral movement and controlled catching.
2. Include both sides
Throw alternately to the left and right. After each action, the starting position is taken up again.
3. Leave the direction open
No longer specify the throwing direction. The catching player recognizes the direction from the throwing action and the ball flight path.
4. Vary placement and tempo in a controlled way
Gradually change the lateral distance and ball speed. This keeps the task matched so that controlled movement execution is possible.
5. Integrate the racket
Replace catching with a compact, controlled return. Split-step timing, movement to the ball and contact point are the focus.
6. Transfer it to the serve-return situation
Start with controlled serves and gradually vary the placement. The split step now follows the hitting action of the server. The lateral movement is based on the incoming ball; after the return, the court is covered.
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