Backhand Smash

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 16 years ago

This might be more appropriate as the subject for a future youtube lesson, but I was wondering if you could describe the mechanics of smashing a weak floating ball hit uppish with one's backhand.

I seem to be having a lot of problem with this shot, with most of my efforts sailing way long.

Do you use the wrist (unlike a forehand smash) and snap the racquet over the ball to keep it down? Or do you generate the pace purely with your arm? Do you keep your arm straight? Do you bend it?

Thanks in advance

Ji-Soo

Alois Rosario Answered 16 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

The backhand smash is not shot that is played a lot.  If the ball is up and floating you have time to run around and play a forehand smash.

But in the case you need to play it, keep your arm relaxed.  Your start position is quite high, around shoulder height.  Swing through forward and through on a fairly level plane. Your contact needs to be flat.  Follow through forward.  Keep your wrist also relaxed to generate a bit more speed.

Remember that this is a difficult stroke and one that is played very rarely, even by the best players.