Return Setup: Never Take a First Step Backward

Summary

John Cincola pins weak returns on starting too close to the baseline. Pros stand farther back because the worst first move on a return is stepping backward.

Hug the line and a deep serve forces you back — momentum goes the wrong way (away from the kitchen) and you’re more likely to leave the return short. Find a depth where even a great serve only has you moving forward through the ball toward the kitchen.

Key takeaways

• First step backward on the return kills momentum and often leaves it short
• Stand far enough that every serve has you moving forward
• Pros give themselves space so they never have to retreat as step one

Action items

• Mark a return start 2–3 feet behind your usual spot for one game
• Film three returns: if your first foot move is backward, start deeper next time