Backhand loop drive technique

Loren Beck-Gonzales Asked 13 years ago

I have watched a lot of videos of pro matches on YouTube and have noticed that many pros struggle to make a hard driving backhand from mid distance or farther from the table, struggle meaning really good for the average but weak compared to their own forehand. One player in particular I have noticed that has an almost equal prower and range on both sides is Kalinikos Kreanga. His backhand topspin swing is different than most I have noticed. He starts at the normal low position below or at table height, he then swings almost straight forward and across his body, only swinging up depending on how much topspin he imparts on the ball, but then usually finishes his stroke back at table height. I have tried using this technique, and I must say it really seemed to help my backhand power and ability to control far from the table shots. I have watched your lesson on the backhand loop and drive and this is not the technique you teach, and I am 22 years old and considering playing some tournaments soon. I was wondering if you endorse his backhand as good technique, and if I should continue using this style of backhand, or drop it for a more conventional stroke?

Thank you! 

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Loren,

Kreanga has a great backhand that works very well for him.

If you are able to copy his backhand and it works for you then keep going with it.  We don't teach that technique because it is a little more risky.  We recommend for most that you keep a more vertical swing and keep the one plane on the stroke.  he way Kreanga swings needs a lot of timing and skill to get it right because the angle of his bat is changing throughout the stroke.