How to Hit a Backhand in Tennis

 In tennis, there are a number of shots you need to perfect if you wish to continue to improve and take your game up a level. The forehand is one of those essential shots, as is the backhand.

Whether you’re new to tennis, a casual player, or an experienced player, perhaps chasing your dream of one day winning a Tournament, the backhand is one of the most important shots to have in your arsenal. It’s also one that can be tricky to master.

To help you bring your backhand to where it needs to be, here’s a detailed look at how to hit a backhand in tennis.

What is a Tennis Backhand?

A backhand stroke is a tennis shot where the player leads with the back of their hand.

The racket begins on the opposite side of the body to that of their dominant hand. So, if you hold the racket with your right hand, the racket begins on the left side of the body, eventually finishing on the right side of the torso after contact has been made. The player will swing the racket around their torso, striking the ball with the head of the racket when the back of their hand faces forwards.

Typically, the shot will either be an approach shot, or performed from the baseline

Tennis Backhand Tips

If you’re looking to improve your game, here are several tips on how to hit a backhand in tennis.

Work on Your Grip

Your grip is a fundamental part of any tennis stroke, and it’s something you need to get right if you want to execute a flawless backhand.

There are different grips for players to choose from, I.E continental grip, western grip, eastern grip ETC, but the most important thing to remember here is that it must be one you’re comfortable with.

The most common grip for players looking to perform a one-handed backhand is the eastern grip, though try to find what works for you.

Adopt a Strong Stance

Whether you’re performing a single or double-handed backhand, you need to adopt a strong stance before your racket makes contact with the ball.

Just before you swing and meet the ball, place your dominant foot forwards, as if you’re preparing to do a lunge, and then place your weight onto this foot, making sure to brace your core at the same time.

Turn Your Body

In order to generate the most power, you’re going to have to turn your shoulders, hips, and legs, just before you hit the ball.

Assuming you’re right-handed, and you’re ready for a shot on your left side, rotate your body at the hips to the left and look over your right shoulder to watch the ball. In boxing, power in punches isn’t generated from the arms, it comes from the hips. With the backhand, the same principle applies.

Striking the Ball

With the head of your racket lowered, bring the right arm forwards and outstretched. You should aim to hit the ball when it is around 20 – 40cm in front of your body.

As you strike the ball, push upwards and forwards with your weight-bearing right knee. Keep your left leg behind you. Obviously, you can do things the opposite way around if you happen to be left-handed.

Perfecting the Follow Through

The final step of a single or double backhand is the follow through. A good follow-through offers power, control, and accuracy.

As you bring your arm from your left side to your right, ensure it continues in an upwards and forward motion. Rotate the wrist so that the racket head is above the ball. When rotating the shoulders, to ensure you maintain power, keep the right shoulder slightly in front.

The shot should always end with your hitting arm outstretched, and the racket facing upwards.

Practice

Finally, like anything in life, if you want to get better at something, you need to practice.

Practice does indeed make perfect, so if you are serious about improving your backhand, make sure you get plenty of practice in, and above all else make sure you have fun!