4 Ways to do Front Court Footwork in Badminton (With pictures) | Cloud Sports Blog

Cloud Sports
Sep 11
2 min read

Updated: Oct 14

Footwork is the foundation of every badminton player’s game. In the front court, having efficient and explosive movement helps you reach the shuttle faster, maintain balance, and recover smoothly for the next shot.

There are four common ways players move to the front court — Running Step, Chassé, Cross-Behind, and Hop Step. Each technique has its purpose depending on your position, distance, and playing style. Let’s break them down.

Here's 4 Ways to do Front Court Footwork in Badminton (With pictures)

Running Step Footwork

Badminton footwork for Running step — BWF Coaching Manual - Movement to forehand forecourt. (Running Step)

The Running Step is ideal for covering longer distances quickly — for example, when you’re caught slightly off-guard or need to reach a tight net shot from midcourt.

How it works: After a split-step, you take quick running strides toward the shuttle, leading with your racket leg.
When to use: When you’re further away from the front court and need speed over precision.
Key tip: Stay light on your toes and keep your body leaning forward to maintain momentum and stability when lunging.

Chassé (Side Step)

Badminton footwork for Chasse Step — BWF Coaching Manual - Movement to forehand forecourt. (Chasse)

The Chassé, or side step, is a staple in badminton footwork. It’s fast, controlled, and keeps you ready for quick recovery.

How it works: From your split-step, push off your non-racket leg and slide (or “chassé”) your feet toward the shuttle without crossing them.
When to use: When the shuttle is closer to you or during controlled approach movements at the net.
Key tip: Avoid jumping too high — stay low to the ground to keep your center of gravity stable and movement efficient.

Cross-Behind Step

Badminton footwork for Cross - behind — BWF Coaching Manual - Movement to forehand forecourt. (Cross Behind)

The Cross-Behind Step is a powerful option for players who prefer a fluid, compact movement style.

How it works: After your split-step, your non-racket leg crosses behind your racket leg to move you forward and sideways.
When to use: When you’re recovering from a wide position and need to move diagonally toward the net.
Key tip: Rotate your hips naturally as you move — it adds smoothness and prevents imbalance.

Hop Step

The Hop Step (or “Hop and Lunge”) is a dynamic technique that allows quick reach and recovery.

How it works: You make a small hop forward after your split-step, using the momentum to push into a lunge toward the shuttle.
When to use: During net kills or tight net shots that require fast reaction and quick repositioning.
Key tip: Focus on timing your hop right after your opponent’s shot for maximum explosiveness.

The Common Sequence

For all four ways to do front court footwork in badminton, the movement pattern generally follows:

Split-step → Approach (Running/Chassé/Cross-Behind/Hop) → Lunge → Recovery (Chassé or Step Back)

This sequence helps you stay balanced, explosive, and ready for the next rally.

4 ways to do front court footwork

Final Thoughts

Good front-court footwork isn’t just about speed — it’s about control, balance, and recovery.

Practice each of these four badminton footwork to find what best suits your game style. Whether you prefer the fluidity of a cross-behind or the precision of a chassé, mastering these movements will give you a huge advantage in both singles and doubles play.