ONE-HANDED BACKHAND GUIDE
In the last 50 years the backhand has evolved from a predominantly one-handed stroke to a two-handed.
However, the last decade has seen a resurgence of the one handed backhand at the top of the game demonstrating that a good one-handed backhand can be as effective or even more effective than a two handed backhand.
The goal of this guide is to help you understand and improve your 1-handed backhand so that you can take your game to the next level.
We will explore the following concepts:
- 1-Handed Topspin Backhand Technique & Fundamentals
- Pro Tips to Improve Your 1-Handed Backhand
- Common Mistakes on the 1-Handed Backhand
ONE-HANDED TOPSPIN BACKHAND TECHNIQUE & FUNDAMENTALS
The reason the one-handed topspin backhand is so challenging to master is because it requires perfect timing and stroke mechanics.
While on the two-handed backhand you have the non-dominant hand to help you adjust for late hits or situation where you missed the ideal contact point, on the one-handed backhand you do not have that luxury.
Your perception, timing and footwork have to be spot on to hit a good shot. The following slider will help you visualize the mechanics of a solid stroke.
◀◼▶Backhand one-handed closed stance
Now that you have seen the various segments of the shot, let’s review the proper grip, technique, and fundamentals for this groundstroke.
THE 1 HANDED BACKHAND GRIP
One of the most common mistakes on the one-handed topspin backhand is trying to hit the shot using the wrong grip.
Unless you are holding the racquet with an Eastern backhand grip, you are always going to struggle. In recent years some professional players will even turn the grip more, using a Western Backhand grip, however, for most players the Eastern backhand grip will be the best option.
For this grip, the knuckle of your index finger will be on top of the grip as the picture shows.
THE FOOTWORK & STANCE
The footwork on the one-handed backhand is a bit different than that of the forehand or two-handed backhand in which you can hit with an open stance.
On the 1-handed backhand the preferred stance is a closed stance, with the player stepping slightly across the body to hit the ball. Here is an example:
THE BACKSWING
It is important to take the racket back rotating the body as a unit and not only with the arms.
Ideally, you will take the racquet back keeping your non-dominant hand on the throat of your racquet, your arm should be fairly straight with the racquet head pointing upwards.
For more advanced one-handed backhand tips, lessons on technique, and drills become a member of the 2 Handed Tennis Club
Transforming Your Two-Handed Backhand From Powerless To Powerful
