Rec and Sports

How to Play Tennis – The Backhand Stroke

The backhand is the second common stroke that is learned when beginners start playing tennis. The backhand is learned at the same time as the forehand as the stroke as the concept is similar to the forehand. Two hands are used with the basic backhand because the two-handed backhand increase control and accuracy.

The two-handed backhand stroke is used for players who want more control and accuracy. Learning the backhand is more difficult than the forehand as the feel of the stroke is less natural than hitting a forehand. There are four basic elements when hitting a backhand; court movement, shoulder turn, strike and follow-through.

Being passive when hitting the ball is a sure fire-way to hit a weak backhand. Take an aggressive stance when hitting the ball by going to the ball instead of letting the ball come to you. You can shuffle to the ball, plant your feet and make sure that your feet are a shoulder length apart. Being in the right spot before the ball lands will ensure that your shot is explosive and controlled.

Turn the shoulders and have your racket almost perpendicular to the net. The racket should be higher than your waist and your wrists should be locked. Turned shoulders and a high racket will ensure that your strike will generate enough speed to get over the net.

Hit the ball hard. Don’t be afraid to swing through the ball as this is the only way you’ll feel where to strike the ball. When hitting the ball, strike low and follow through high. Your strike should be around waist level and your racket should still be above your wrists. Follow through the ball by lifting up on the racket and swinging across the body. Your racket should be across the opposite shoulder if you have swung through the ball correctly.

In conclusion, the following should be performed when hitting a backhand. Prepare your body so that you are already in position before the ball gets to you. Squared and turned shoulders is required to increase racket speed. Hit and follow through the ball and emphasize coming across your body to maximize the top-spin that is generated.