Tennis

Backhand

MIT OCW PE.710 Tennis Lecture Notes Chapter 2: Backhand The backhand has two choices for grip. The first is one-handed, and shown above. It provides greater reach, but is sometimes harder to control. The second option, the two-handed grip, is shown here. It has less reach, but offers more stability and control. The ready position. Note that both hands are on the racket, the knees are slightly bent, and attention is focused on the opposite court. Step 1: The shoulder turn and preparation of the racket. Note that the racket is brought back, much like in the forehand. In this case, both hands remain on the racket. Step 2a: A step is taken, and the racket starts to come forward. Note that the player is balanced and moving toward the shot. Step 2b: The racket comes forward to meet the ball in front of the player. Note that the racket face meets the ball squarely. Step 3: The follow-through, with the racket ending up high and out in front. A smooth follow through is critical to effective groundstrokes - bunting the ball will lead to soft, high balls that are easy for opponents. The ready position with the two handed grip. Step 1, Two-Handed Grip: Similar to the one-handed backhand, with the hands together on the grip. Step 2a, Two-Handed Grip: The step and racket preparation. Step 2b, Two-Handed Grip: Making contact with the ball. Generally, the racket head will be closer to the body on a two-handed backhand. Step 3, Two-Handed Grip: The follow-through. Note that the racket here ends much like the forehand, over the opposite shoulder.

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