Problems with backhand

Patrick Unknown Asked 16 years ago

Hi, i have now watched all of your videos on youtube and i have to say thanks alot it really has improved my game. But no matter how many times i watch the backhand video i cant seem to get it right. Me and my little brother have practiced this for hours on end but neither of us can get our backhand to work correctly. Any input on this?

Thanks again

Alois Rosario Answered 16 years ago

Hi Patrick,

We are so glad to hear that our videos have helped your game.  That is exactly what we are after.

Are you talking about the backhand counterhit or the Backhand Topspin or the Backhand Topspin against Backspin?

Without seeing your backhand it is always a little difficult to tell what might need to change.

For now I will assume you are talking about the Backhand Counterhit, but if I am wrong please let me know.

One common mistakes I see is not starting with your bat perfectly flat.  This will depend on the type of bat you use, but if you are using a slower bat you really must have that bat completely flat, facing your target at the start of the stroke.  Any slight variation will change where the ball ends up.

Another option is to modify your swing slightly.  Your feet and start position stay the same.  Rather than finishing with the forehand side of your bat facing the roof, finish with it in front of you, like you are holding a hand mirror.  Your pointer finger will be pointing at the roof.  Check at the end of each shot that you have your bat in the mirror position. This is a simpler version of the stroke.

Let me know if you need any other help with it.  The other option is to use the Analysis Section of our site. This will enable us to have a look at the video of your stroke and give you some clearer specific advice.