positioning
Set your default return stance, spacing, and recovery plan so your pair starts each rally in balance.
The best return positioning puts you just behind the service line, slightly inside your half, with a clear middle priority. That stance lets you handle flat serves, keep your partner aligned, and recover forward after contact. Use small adjustments based on server pace and lob risk, but keep the same core rule: protect the middle first, then chase angles.
Most return errors come from starting too deep or too wide. A compact default stance gives you time and keeps the middle covered.
Your partner should mirror your depth so the pair stays connected when you advance after the return.
Adjustments should be small and consistent. Large shifts confuse your partner and open the middle.
Use depth adjustments against heavy kick or lob-heavy servers, but keep the same middle-first recovery rule.
Only slightly. A small step back can help with heavy spin, but too much depth gives opponents easy net control.
Agree the middle priority before the match and keep return depth matched so neither player drifts too wide.
Use a small lateral shift, not a full reposition. Keep your middle foot loaded so you can still protect the center lane.
Published 2025-01-01
Tactical guidance should favor repeatable patterns and positioning principles over one-off highlight plays.
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