Footwork drills · Fundamentals · Beginner · ~2 min

Split step

A small hop timed with the opponent's hit preloads the legs, so the first step comes out faster in whichever direction the shuttle goes.

▶ Unlock the full potential of your Split Step | Badminton Footwork Tutorial — Tobias Wadenka (YouTube)

More videos: Badminton Footwork - The Split Step (Badminton Insight) · Stop Moving Wrong! Split Step Tutorial for Beginners (ViktorAxelsen)

Starting position

Ready position at base.

Movement sequence

1. As the opponent starts their swing, make a small hop (a few centimetres).
2. Land on the balls of both feet slightly wider than before, knees bent, just as or just after they hit.
3. Immediately push off toward the shuttle's direction.
4. Shadow practice: a partner claps or swings; split on each cue and take one step in any direction.

Recovery

Back to base and ready position; split again on the next opponent hit.

Technique cues

• Hop as they swing, land as they hit
• Small and quick, not a jump
• Land wide, push out

Common mistakes

• Splitting too early (landing and then waiting)
• Jumping too high
• Landing flat-footed and narrow

Easier

A quick heel-raise and drop instead of a hop.

Harder

Split into a directional first step (land with the outside foot slightly turned).

Safety

• Low hops only; build up if calves are sensitive.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, chest pain or unusual breathlessness.

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