Table tennis footwork basics
Strokes get the attention, but footwork decides whether you reach the ball in the right place. Good footwork is small, quick steps, not big lunges.
The ready position
- Feet about shoulder width apart, or a little wider.
- Knees bent, weight on the balls of your feet and slightly forward.
- Paddle in front of you at about waist height, elbow bent.
- Stand roughly an arm's length or a bit more from the table.
Return to this position after every shot. Do not stay planted where you hit.
Common movement patterns
- Side step. Used for balls to your forehand or backhand side. Move the foot closest to the ball first, then bring the other foot to follow.
- Cross step. For a ball that is wide. Cross the far foot over to cover distance, then recover with a side step.
- In and out. Step in for short balls near the net, step back for deep, fast balls.
- Pivot. Used to turn your hips and use a forehand from the backhand corner.
Habits to build
- Take small steps. They keep you balanced.
- Move before the ball arrives. Start the step as the opponent hits.
- Keep your head still and eyes on the ball.
- Recover to the ready position after each shot.
A simple drill
Have a partner feed balls alternately to your forehand and backhand side, slowly. Return each one with a side step and recover. Ten minutes of this beats an hour of standing still. For more, see beginner drills.
Published Oct 3, 2026.