In this session, we will learn the basics of the two hand backhand. For right handed players, the right index knuckle is on the 1 o’clock position and the left index knuckle is on the 9pm position. The right hand is on the bottom of the handle and left hand on top.
The stroke follows a rhythmic dance move where the player pivots to the contact point, makes adjustment steps and lands the left foot just inside the path of the ball where contact will be made and then the racquet will go fully back and if the player has time they will take a small right foot forward step to load up the core. The player will unload by uncoiling the body towards contact, allowing the racquet head to drop slightly below the level of the ball contact, leading with the handle. Contact is made near the front foot, while pulling the handles towards contact and upwards. The player will finish with a full pivot back to a net facing position. The left wrist will have some extension as you start your forward pull to contact, pointing the end of the racquet forward. The racquet tip should be slightly higher than the handle on the take back and as the racquet is pulled forward the racquet tip should tilt down below the level of the handle as you pull the racquet up towards the ball. The racquet tip will be rising through contact and finish well above the level of the ball as you extend beyond contact and decelerate the racquet over you shoulder on your right side.
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As with all shots, progressive scenario training is key to refining the skill. I like a 3 ball drill where you target cross court, then middle then down the line. You can start with drop feeds, then move on to hand toss feeds, then racquet feeds from mid-court. Then you follow this with another 3 ball drill, high loop cross court, short angle cross court and down the line. The last 3 ball scenario trains receiving different heights, speeds and spins. First ball is short, with a cross court target, second ball is immediately fed deep to challenge the players defensive footwork skills and the third ball is fed to the forehand on the run.
Target training and scenario training should be the focus once the technical and foundational elements are solid. Shadow stroking and garage door rally’s can refine the technique and on court practice will round out the receiving skills and target based training. Just making balls in play, making good contact and proper footwork are the initial goals.
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