Four-Ball Conditioning Drill

This drill focuses on groundstrokes, footwork, and conditioning by combining wide movement with directional hitting. Players are challenged to cover the full baseline while maintaining intensity, proper positioning, and clean shot execution. By feeding to both corners and alternating crosscourt and down-the-line targets, the drill builds endurance, balance, and confidence in handling wide balls under pressure. It emphasizes hitting on the rise and keeping rallies sharp, making it highly effective for singles preparation.

Setup

• Coach positioned in the service box with a basket of balls
• One player begins at the center of the baseline
• Court markers may be placed for target zones

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds the first ball wide to one corner. Player moves quickly, sets up, and hits crosscourt
• Second feed is to the opposite wide corner. Player again hits crosscourt, focusing on early preparation
• Third feed goes wide to one side. Player moves and hits down the line
• Fourth feed goes wide to the opposite side. Player again hits down the line
• Sequence is repeated with emphasis on intensity, recovery steps, and clean footwork

Repetition

• Run multiple 4-ball sequences, rotating players to maintain energy
• Vary feeds with topspin, slice, high, or low balls
• Add targets to encourage accuracy in both crosscourt and down-the-line shots

Coaching Points

• Builds footwork, conditioning, and recovery speed
• Reinforces hitting at peak bounce or on the rise
• Improves directional control under fatigue
• Develops singles skills by simulating realistic wide-ball situations

Drill Tutorial