The Pinpoint Serving Stance
by: Dave Winship @ On The Line

When you take up position to serve, your front foot should be at about 45 degrees to the baseline and as close to it as possible without touching it. Your back foot should be parallel to the baseline, a comfortable shoulder-width behind your front foot.

It's a base that allows a good trunk and shoulder rotation and a smooth transfer of weight from back foot to front foot. Most players use it at the start of their action, although many top pros change the position of their feet before they actually execute the serve. Some keep the feet apart, but the majority bring the back foot up behind the front foot in what's become known as the pinpoint stance.

Inevitably, there are arguments for and against both options and they probably just about cancel each other out. Keeping the feet apart ensures the good balance you'd expect from a wider base. Bringing them together permits a slightly higher contact out in front of you.

If you're keen to try the pinpoint option, I would simply warn that making this change in your technique could jeopardize your control and balance and will require plenty of practice.

Regards.

Dave Winship