How do I develop an attacking backhand topspin/loop?

Ray Algar Asked 16 years ago

I have a strong game that presently relies heavily on a big forehand - I often find myself running around my backhand.

This year, I want to develop an attacking backhand, but find that presently there is little bat speed. My backhand shots are quite 'cautious' and lack the flow that I have on my forehand. In matches, I am now noticing that players are picking up on this 'tentative' backhand and tend to focus down that wing.

I would really like to know how to develop confidence to generate a free-flowing backhand that has real zip and pace - it feels so much more natural on the forehand side.

Alois Rosario Answered 16 years ago

Hi Ray,

Firstly, try to do the stroke in a practice situation rather than a match.

Focus on the amount of tension in your arm when you are doing the stroke.  Try to let your arm swing as freely as possible.

When trying to get students to do a big backhand I often get them to thin about Roger Federer's backhand and the amount of free flowing it has.  Open up your arm and should ers initially to get the full stroke.  The ball may fly long initiall but keep going with it an d see if you can allow yourself to swing through the ball.

Watch the Lesson on the <a href="http://www.pingskills.com/lessons-backhand-topspin-against-backspin.php"> Backhand Topspin against Backspin</a> and note the start and finish points in particular.  Try to get your bat to flow as freely as possible between those two points.

Everyone has a preferred side, the better players just get their weaker side up to a better level.