How to Play Tennis: Backhand

If you want to know how to play tennis like a pro, you need to master the backhand. This guide will show you the proper technique so that you can hit a backhand like a champ!

Introduction

A backhand is a stroke in tennis executed by holding the racquet with both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the hand facing the opponent.

For a right-handed player, the backhand is a stroke that begins on the left side of their body, continuing across the body as contact is made with the ball. It can be executed either one-handed or two-handed.

The backhand is considered one of the most difficult strokes to master, as proper technique requires good coordination between arms, legs, and torso.

The Backhand Grip

The backhand grip is the second most common grip in tennis after the continental, and is generally used for backhand strokes. The backhand grip is also referred to as the “semi-western” due to the way the hand position sits on the racquet. The Semi-Western can be executed as either a one-handed or two-handed backhand.

There are three main types of backhand grips:
The Eastern Backhand Grip, Continental Backhand Grip and Western Backhand Grip. All three are used regularly on the professional tour, but each has their own unique advantages and disadvantages.

The Eastern Backhand Grip:
The Eastern Backhand is the most popular grip for beginners and recreational players. It is also the grip used most often by professional players on the ATP Tour. The Eastern Backhand is simple to learn and execute, and it offers a good balance between power and control. It is also a very versatile grip, allowing players to hit a variety of different shots with relative ease.

The main disadvantage of the Eastern Backhand is that it can be difficult to generate topspin with this grip. This can make it difficult to keep the ball in play against opponents who have heavy topspin shots. Additionally, because the racket face is pointing more towards the ground at contact, it can be difficult to hit volleys with this grip.

The Continental Backhand Grip:
The Continental Grip is less popular than the Eastern Grip, but it still sees regular use on the professional tour. This grip offers slightly less power than the Eastern Grip but gives players more control over their shots. Additionally, because the racket face is more open at contact, it is easier to generate topspin with this grip than with an Eastern Grip. As a result, this grip is often used by clay court specialists who need to hit high-arcing shots over low nets. However, because of its closed face at contact, volleying can be more difficult with this grip than with an open-face grips like eastern or western backhands..

One handed or two handed backhands?

While most recreational players use two hands on their backhands, many of today’s top professional players only use one hand for both their forehands and backhands. Using one hand givesplayers more maneuverability around the court and allows them to generate more power on their shots; however, two-handed strokes offer more stability and are easier to learn..

The Backhand Swing

The backhand is a staple shot in tennis. If you can master the backhand, you’ll be well on your way to playing great tennis. The backhand swing is not difficult to learn, but it does take some practice to perfect. Here are the steps to take to get your backhand swing right:

1. Start by standing in the ready position, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your racquet held out in front of you at shoulder level.

2. When the ball comes toward you, step forward with your dominant foot and swing your racquet across your body, making contact with the ball just behind your head.

3. As you make contact, twist your hand so that your palm faces away from you and follow through with your swing until your arm is fully extended.

4. recover from your swing by returning to the ready position. Repeat this process until you’ve hit a few balls back and forth with your opponent.

The Backhand Volley

The backhand volley is a stroke used in the sport of tennis. It is hit with the back of the hand facing the ball. The backhand volley is often used by players who are near the net and need to hit a quick shot to keep their opponents from regaining control of the point.

This stroke can be difficult to master, but it is an important part of any player’s repertoire. Players who can hit a successful backhand volley often put their opponents on the defensive and take control of the point.

There are two main types of backhand volleys: the one-handed backhand volley and the two-handed backhand volley. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

The one-handed backhand volley is more powerful, but it can be harder to control. This type of shot is often used by professional players. The two-handed backhand volley is not as powerful, but it is easier to control. This type of shot is often used by beginner and intermediate players.

To hit a successful backhand volley, players need to use their non-dominant hand to stabilize the racket and keep it level with the ground. They should also keep their elbow close to their body and exhale as they make contact with the ball.

The Backhand Overhead

The backhand overhead is a powerful stroke that can be used to finish off a point. It is hit with the back of the hand facing the direction of the oncoming ball. The elbow should be in line with the shoulder, and the racket should be brought around from behind the head. The ball should be hit at its apex, or highest point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the backhand is a strokes in tennis that can be used both for defensive and offensive purposes. When hit correctly, it can be a very powerful shot. There are two main types of backhand strokes – the one-handed backhand and the two-handed backhand. Depending on your preference and playing style, you can choose which one works best for you. With practice and proper technique, you can master this stroke and use it to your advantage on the court.