Exercise for backhand arm strength?

Douglas Hill Asked 13 years ago

I'm 60 years old, in decent shape, have been playing in a club for 9 years.  My game centers around the forehand.  I practiced with a better player recently, and he recommended that I take a shorter backswing on my backhand hits over the table; that there is rarely time for much backswing in fast play, although I should follow through.  I was able to do this and found it effective, but my upper arm gets tired.

Are there exercises effective in strengthening the arm for this motion, or is hitting a lot of backhands the best exercise?

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Douglas,

The one exercise I would think would be beneficial is lateral arm raises.  Standing with your arm by your side and raising it up to the side till it is shoulder height.  You should always consult someone regarding this sort of exercise before starting it u of course.

You will also find that if you relax your arm during your stroke it will help you to not get so tired during your training.  This is something that only really happens during training when you are doing the stroke repetitively.  In a match you are changing the position of your arm all the time so that muscle won't fatigue.