The first rule is there are no rules-only guidelines! In a conversation I once had with the greatest player in racquetball history he made this statement:
“You know it is hard to learn racquetball because there is always an exception to every rule. There are really no set rules when it comes to footwork and winning rallies.”
Rule: Avoid extreme cross-over steps, especially on the backhand side.
Reasoning-avoid injury, be able to react to shots off the side wall.
Rule: Avoid having all your weight on the front foot
Reasoning-be more efficient with shots.
Rule: Avoid huge first steps on two step drive serve approach.
Reasoning: loss of balance and further from center court.
Exceptions to the rules above? Yes, especially during rallies when out of position. “All hands on deck emergency measures” state has to be employed.
Well, Coach Winterton, that is an opinion and all of us cannot play like pros. I am starting to get this argument.
First, what I teach is not an opinion. It is backed up by big money sports” trainers footwork and mechanics technique. Baseball, football, and tennis is where I go for the latest in footwork. I do not go to the everyday pros, but the trainers of the elites of the elite. I then come back to racquetball and apply these principles.
I back my coaching with science, not opinion.
It is impossible to make set rules for a random movement sport like racquetball, but not difficult to invest some time and change the way you teach to prevent injury in your students.