INSTRUCTION By Alice Tym
Principles of the Backhand
There are several successful backhand strokes in tennis including Roger Federer ’ s topspin , John McEnroe ’ s chip slice , Justine Henin ’ s western backhand , and those of Stanislas Wawrinka , Stephanos Tsitsipas , Dominic Thiem … the list goes on . There are great one-handed backhands and two-handed backhands . Pickleball has an even greater variety of backhand strokes because players can use such a short backswing and can also use a lot of wrist to create a “ roll ” or topspin and a disguised topspin flick . There are fundamental principles in all of these strokes , and using these principles will improve your game no matter which style of backhand you choose to include in your repertoire .
First of all , good strokes involve attitude — and attitude begins with knowledge ( or lack thereof ). The backhand is a natural stroke . It may appear that the forehand is easy , but , in fact , the backhand is a more natural stroke . With a forehand , your arm is out there dangling all alone . With a backhand you have your side and shoulder turned toward the net ready to step into the ball using your whole body to add force to the shot . So , instead of dreading the shot , you should embrace it .
Stacy Pardue illustrates the importance of early preparation . Her paddle is back so that she can step into the ball . Her head is down with her eyes focused on the ball . She is able to transfer her weight from her back foot to her front foot as she steps into the ball . Her forward momentum will help her transition smoothly to the NVZ line .
Stacy Pardue illustrates that power comes from the legs whether you hit a twohanded backhand or a one-handed backhand . Her head is down , and her eyes are on the ball as she “ unloads ” into the shot .
When teaching beginners who recoil at the thought of hitting a backhand , I ask them to say “ Oh , goodie ” out loud as soon as they realize the ball is coming to their backhand . It seems so silly , but it begins to change their attitude . That good attitude helps them to prepare earlier — a key to hitting a good backhand .
Early preparation is a fundamental principle that eventually allows a good player to be able to “ unload .” It is the key to playing the ball , not letting the ball play you . In order to step into the ball , you must have your paddle back . It is best if you begin taking your paddle back as soon as you determine that the ball is coming to your backhand side . Think opportunity . Think control and consistency . Consistency of preparation is important in your consistency of placement . Your backhand gives you the opportunity for power , disguise , consistency , precision , and placement .
Power comes from your legs . You can ’ t step into the ball if your legs are stiff . Relax . Remember , this is the most natural stroke . “ Oh , goodie .” Get down . Get down low so that you are able to make adjustments for spin , pace , and bad bounces . Get down low so that your body can go forward and attack the ball . Remember , you are playing the backhand ; it is not playing you . Get down low so that you can drive the ball up and over the net , particularly if you are hitting a short hop or an approach shot .
If you are taking the ball on the rise and hitting an approach shot in order to get to the NVZ ( No Volley Zone )