Learn how to perfect your double handed backhand with expert tips, technique breakdowns, and step-by-step guidance. Enhance your tennis game with this comprehensive guide.
Did you know that 7 out of 10 professional tennis players use a double handed backhand? This powerful technique revolutionized tennis when players like Chris Evert and Jimmy Connors popularized it in the 1970s. Today, I’ll guide you through mastering this essential tennis stroke that can transform your game! Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this comprehensive guide will help you develop a reliable and powerful two handed backhand.
Understanding the Double Handed Backhand Basics
The double-handed backhand is a fundamental tennis skill that has revolutionized the modern game. Unlike the traditional single-handed backhand, this technique employs both hands on the racket, offering greater stability and control.
When we look at today’s professional circuit, you’ll notice that most players favor the two-handed approach. Why? Well, it’s not just a trend – there are some serious advantages to this style. The double-handed backhand typically offers better control, more power potential, and greater consistency, especially when returning high-bouncing balls.
Let’s talk about grip positions – this is where many players get confused. Your dominant hand should maintain the continental grip (imagine shaking hands with your racket), while your non-dominant hand typically uses a semi-western or eastern forehand grip. This combination creates a stable platform for striking the ball while maintaining flexibility in your swing.
Your stance is equally crucial. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, with your non-dominant shoulder pointing toward the target. This athletic stance allows for proper weight transfer and helps generate power through your core rotation.
Step-by-Step Technical Breakdown
Now, let’s break down the shot into digestible pieces. Starting with preparation, you’ll want to turn your shoulders early – this is something I emphasize with all my students. Your tennis swing preparation should be smooth and deliberate, not rushed.
The footwork is fascinating – it’s like a dance really. You want to take small adjustment steps as you move to the ball, ensuring you’re neither too close nor too far. The ideal contact point is slightly in front of your lead foot, allowing you to transfer weight forward effectively.
During the backswing, both arms should work together. Think of it as drawing back a bow – your arms create tension that you’ll release into the ball. The racket should drop below the ball, with your elbows bent and away from your body.
The forward swing is where the magic happens. As you drive forward, your hips and shoulders rotate together, with both hands working in unison. The contact point should be comfortable – not too far in front or behind – typically around the front hip.
The follow-through is often overlooked but absolutely crucial. Your racket should continue up and across your body, finishing above your opposite shoulder. This natural finish helps prevent injury and ensures complete power transfer into the ball.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Let’s address some issues I frequently see on the court. First up: grip problems. Many players place their hands too far apart or use incompatible grip combinations. This creates instability and reduces power. The solution? Your hands should be touching, working as a single unit.
Weight transfer issues are another common headache. Players often lean back during contact, resulting in weak, floating shots. To fix this, practice stepping into your backhand while keeping your head still. This promotes forward momentum and better balance.
Speaking of contact points, I’ve seen countless players hit the ball too close to their body. This robs you of power and control. The fix is simple: practice making contact with the ball slightly in front of your body, giving your arms room to extend through the shot.
Then there’s the dreaded abbreviated follow-through. Some players stop their swing right after contact, which is like hitting the brakes halfway through a race. Your follow-through should be full and fluid, continuing well past the point of contact.
Balance problems often stem from poor footwork preparation. If you find yourself falling backward or stumbling after shots, focus on taking smaller preparation steps and maintaining a stable base throughout the swing.
Training Drills and Exercises
Want to improve your double-handed backhand? Let’s talk drills. Shadow swinging is an excellent start – practice your technique without a ball, focusing on form and balance. Do this in front of a mirror if possible, paying attention to your grip and swing path.
Wall practice is another fantastic tool. Start close to the wall, hitting gentle shots while focusing on consistency. Gradually move back as your control improves. The instant feedback from the wall helps develop timing and feel.
Partner drills are invaluable for development. Have your practice partner feed you balls at varying heights and speeds. Start with simple cross-court exchanges, then progress to more challenging directions and speeds. This helps develop real-match confidence and timing.
Progressive practice is key to improvement. Begin with slow, controlled shots, gradually increasing power and spin as your technique solidifies. Record yourself regularly – video analysis is an incredible tool for identifying and correcting technical flaws.
Advanced Double Handed Backhand Strategies
Ready to take your backhand to the next level? Let’s explore some advanced concepts. Adding topspin to your tennis strokes is essential in modern tennis. To generate more topspin on your backhand, brush up the back of the ball more aggressively while maintaining racket head speed.
Power generation comes from proper sequencing. Start with your legs, transfer through your core, and finish with your arms. It’s like cracking a whip – each segment adds to the overall power.
Shot disguise is a crucial advanced skill. By maintaining similar preparation for different shots, you can keep your opponent guessing. Small adjustments in racket angle and swing path can produce dramatically different results while looking identical during preparation.
Court positioning varies based on your playing style and situation. When playing defensively, stay behind the baseline and use your backhand’s stability to absorb pace. When attacking, look to take the ball early and move forward, cutting off angles and applying pressure.
Remember, the double-handed backhand isn’t just a defensive shot – it can be a powerful weapon in your tennis arsenal. By mastering these advanced concepts, you’ll be able to use your backhand both defensively and offensively, making you a more complete player.
Conclusion
Mastering the double handed backhand takes time and dedication, but the rewards are worth it! Remember to focus on proper technique before power, and always maintain good form during practice. Ready to transform your tennis game? Get out there and start practicing these techniques today! Don’t forget to record yourself and track your progress as you develop this game-changing stroke.
