Every great shot begins before the paddle ever touches the ball. Success often lies in a player’s set up — the position of the body and paddle in preparation for a shot. Here’s why a solid setup is essential and how it can transform your play.
Positioning for Success
A good setup puts your body and paddle in an ideal position to hit the shot you want. Think of it as laying the foundation for what comes next. If your body is off-balance or your paddle is in the wrong place, even the best plans will typically lead to poor outcomes.
When preparing for a groundstroke, for example, players should try to get the paddle back and their shoulders turned (possibly but not necessarily with a neutral stance) before the ball bounces on your side of the court. This approach gives you more control over your shot rather than reacting at the last second. Watch the pros and you’ll see this in action.
Maximizing Shot Options and Disguise
A strong setup maximizes your shot options and allows for better disguise. It’s not just about hitting the ball; it’s about keeping your opponents off balance and guessing.
When you have a consistent and early set up, it makes it harder for your opponent to read what you’re going to do. Players who consistently set up early and maintain a balanced, neutral posture can disguise drops and drives, dinks and speed ups. A late or poor set up, by contrast, limits your options and often telegraphs your intentions to your opponent.
Creating a Sense of Time
Have you ever noticed how calm advanced players look even when things are getting feisty? One of the most rewarding benefits of a solid set up is the feeling of having ample time to hit the ball. Players often feel rushed when they prepare too late, leading to panicked or off-balance shots. Early preparation creates a mental and physical advantage, giving the impression that the game has slowed down.
By preparing your paddle and positioning your body before the bounce, you can focus on hitting the shot rather than scrambling to get ready. This “extra time” allows for more controlled swings and better decision-making
A good setup is more than a preparation; it’s the foundation of effective shot-making. It puts you in control, maximizes your options, and creates the time you need to execute your shots. Train yourself to prepare early, and you’ll feel the difference right away.