What Is a Two Hand Backhand?
The two-handed backhand is a popular shot in the game of tennis. It is used to hit the ball with power and accuracy and is a great way to defend against an opponent’s shots. It is a shot that requires precise timing and technique in order to be successful.
Getting Ready to Hit the Two-Handed Backhand
The first step to hitting a successful two-handed backhand is getting into the correct stance. The player should stand with their feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and their knees slightly bent. The player should be facing the net and should have their non-dominant hand on the back of the racquet.
Gripping the Racquet
The grip of the racquet is important for a successful two-handed backhand. The player should have a firm grip and their knuckles should be aligned with their non-dominant hand. The player should have their dominant hand around the throat of the racquet and their index finger should be closest to the strings.
The Backswing
The backswing of the two-handed backhand is the part of the shot where the player takes the racquet back and prepares to hit the ball. The player should turn their shoulders to the left and their hips to the right as they take the racquet back. The player should also keep their non-dominant arm straight and slightly bent at the elbow.
Extending the Racquet
When the player is ready to hit the ball, they should extend their arms and the racquet forward. The player should keep their non-dominant arm slightly bent and the dominant arm should be slightly bent as well. The player should make sure to keep their elbow up and above the shoulder.
Hitting the Ball
When the player is ready to hit the ball, they should make sure to keep their head up and their eyes on the ball. The player should also make sure to keep their arms straight and the racquet head above the wrist. The player should hit the ball with the strings of the racquet and should make sure to follow through with their shot.
The Follow Through
The follow through of the two-handed backhand is just as important as the backswing and the hit. The player should make sure to keep their arms straight and the racquet head above the wrist. The player should also make sure to keep their head up and their eyes on the ball until the shot has been completed.
Common Mistakes
There are a few common mistakes that players make when hitting the two-handed backhand. The first is not keeping the non-dominant arm straight and slightly bent at the elbow. Another common mistake is not keeping the racquet head above the wrist. Finally, some players make the mistake of not following through with their shot.
Tips for Improvement
Practicing the Basics
The best way to improve your two-handed backhand is to practice the basics. This includes getting into the correct stance, gripping the racquet correctly, taking the racquet back and extending your arms forward when you hit the ball.
Working with a Coach
Working with a coach can be beneficial for improving your two-handed backhand. A coach can help you with your technique and provide you with drills and exercises to help you improve.
Getting the Right Equipment
Having the right equipment is also important for a successful two-handed backhand. Make sure to get a racquet that is the right size and weight for your skill level and playing style. Make sure to also get the right strings and grip for your racquet.
Using Visualization Techniques
Visualization techniques can also be helpful for improving your two-handed backhand. Visualizing yourself hitting a successful shot can help you focus and prepare for the shot.
Conclusion
Hitting a successful two-handed backhand requires precise timing and technique. It is important to get into the correct stance, grip the racquet correctly, take the racquet back and extend your arms when you hit the ball. It is also important to follow through with your shot and to correct any common mistakes. Practicing the basics, working with a coach, getting the right equipment, and using visualization techniques can all help to improve your two-handed backhand.