One of the best and most tennis-specific ladder drills you can do that works on all ABC components is the "icky shuffle." Here's how it works:
- Start by standing at one end of the ladder just to the left.
- Step into the first space with your right foot, then step in to the same space with your left foot.
- Step out to the right side of the ladder with your right foot and repeat the sequence in reverse to the left.
The rhythm is 1-2-3, 1-2-3, or In-In-Out, In-In-Out. Some people even do it better if they think about it as Right-Left-Right, Left-Right-Left.
Footwork Training Tips
1. Don't go too fast. Try to complete the drill properly, rather than kicking the ladder halfway up the court because you are trying to move at a speed you can't control.
If you are struggling, say the cues out loud, "In-In-OUT." Saying them out loud will force the correct sequence much quicker than you might think.
2. Try to use a tennis racket while you are performing the drills -- this will help you get used to moving with a racket in your hands. It will also make it easier when you are trying to implement these skills into your game.