Should I learn the backhand receive?

Oliver Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois and Jeff

I have the habit of receiving my serves with my forehand only; I do not know how to receive (short serves) with a backhand push/flick. Even though it hasn't caused me any problems so far, watching so many people using backhand sidespin flicks and backhand receives (which have a lot of spin) got me curious: am I missing out? And is this a legit way of playing which can get me to a higher level?

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Oliver,

Using your forehand only is a legitimate way of returning so if this suits your game, then keep doing it.

It would be good to develop your backhand return a little as an alternative.

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amit k Posted 11 years ago

My problem is the the other way round! I am more comfortable returning using my BH. I am a right handed player (newbie). Typically I have seen in professional match a right handed player stands to left extreme of the table. But in my case I stand almost at the center of the table (which I know is a bad idea).

Any suggestions on how to alter my playing style to be more of a FH player?

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 11 years ago
Hi Amit,

Firstly just set up more to your backhand side and think about using your forehand receive more.

A lot of top players are starting to use more backhand receives but they are using the BAckhand sidespin flick. I think for you using your forehand more so that you are in a better position for the next ball is a good idea.