How To Hit A Backhand In Tennis

Hitting a backhand in tennis is key to properly playing the game and effectively edges a player towards victory. The shot saves the player foot movement and adds a point of power to the game.

1. Get into the proper position. Hitting a backhand in tennis requires the player to turn their dominant side towards the net. For a right-handed player, this is the right side. For a left handed player, it is the left side. Feet are planted with the dominant foot horizontal to the net and the non-dominant foot evenly planted at a slightly less than shoulder width apart. Initially, the body weight should be shifted mainly to the back foot in preparation to hit the ball.
2. Two-handed grip. Most players find hitting a backhand in tennis more controllable through the use of both hands. Maintain your regular grip on the handle of the racket and apply the second hand slightly above, though still on the grip.
3. Shift your weight during the swing. Hitting a backhand in tennis requires the shifting of weight from the back foot to the forefoot during contact with the ball. This typically takes practice to get the timing down. This shift in body weight puts more power into the return shot.
4. Follow through. A common mistake made when hitting a backhand in tennis is the lack of follow through. The racket should initially be behind the back foot slightly. The racket should hit the ball mid swing at the equal point to the body and the racket should continue to move upward and forward past the body to complete the swing. Do not let go with the secondary hand during the follow through. This hand adds control to the hit.