Improving Your Backhand Topspin with Inverted Rubber

Jasper Low Asked 1 week ago

I just switched back to inverted rubber from short pips and upgraded my blade to timo boll ALC I've been experimenting with my backhand and I haven't been about to get my backhand over the ball consistently to have a decent backhand topspin against block. I've tried getting the elbow higher to get over the ball but many times the ball jumps higher than expected and my backhand suddenly feels off. I also noticed that when I stand low to the table, my stroke tends to cover my face and I'm not able to track the ball as well as compared to just blocking and pushing. How do I improve?   

I feel like I am still able to play matches well even without a threatening backhand topspin as my match play skills are quite good now that I've experienced so many different opponents and found each of their weaknesses quite clearly nowadays and I have a very spinny backhand push that most players struggle with.  Think it would be nice to have that backhand topspin for some variation.

Alois Rosario Answered 2 days ago

Hi Jasper,

It sounds like you're undergoing a bit of an adjustment period with your new equipment and style changes, which is quite normal. Transitioning from short pips to inverted rubber, accompanied by a switch to a faster blade like the Timo Boll ALC, definitely requires some modifications to your technique, especially on your backhand topspin.

Here are a few tips to help you adjust and refine your backhand topspin:

• Adjust Your Bat Angle: With inverted rubber, you'll need a slightly more closed bat angle compared to short pips to generate effective topspin. This helps in keeping the ball lower over the net while still applying pressure.  This is a matter of practice to allow your brain to get used to the subtle change.
• Focus on Your Stroke Path: Instead of just raising your elbow, think about the path your racket takes.  Focus on moving more forward and over the ball than you would have with pimples.
• Practice Drills: Incorporate specific drills that focus on backhand topspin against block. You could start with slower, more controlled topspins and gradually increase the pace as you become more comfortable.

Keep experimenting and adjusting, and don't hesitate to film yourself during practice to visually pinpoint areas for improvement. It often provides insights that are hard to gauge in real-time.