High Ball To My Backhand

Hi Alois & Jeff, I've been having a problem returning a backhand that is about at the height of my shoulder... I try a backhand but it usually goes off the end of the table... Could you help me with this high of a backhand?

Thanks

Hi Collin,

The backhand at shoulder height or above is a really awkward shot because normally for the backhand your hand is quite low. As the ball gets higher you need to lift your hand way above your elbow and you lose control of the shot.

In this situation I recommend that you move around and play a forehand smash. This is a much easier, more powerful, and more consistent stroke. It does mean you need to develop your footwork so you can get around quickly.

If you do get caught on and have to play a backhand, try to get stand up fairly straight (which you normally wouldn't do) so you can get some height and turn slightly side on. Then just try to play a kind of backhand counterhit/smash stroke.