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| THE BASIC ONE HAND BACKHAND The basic one handed backhand begins with a unit turn. The unit turn is where the upper body turns sideways while the left arm (for right handers) takes the racquet back. The grip should be turned over by moving the palm of the hand on top of the handle and the thumb goes behind the handle. The feet should pivot sideways or they may step to the side of the ball. Once in this sideways position with the racquet head pointing back to the fence and the racquet strings in a vertical position with the ground, the next phase can begin. Next the player should step forward with the front leg (leg closest to net). As the step takes place the body opens only slightly as the arm, hand and racquet handle come forward as the left hand (for right handers) stays back for balance. At the moment of impact, the body will be almost sideways but the arm and racquet will be in front of the shoulder closest to the net. Many instructors refer to this movement as “drawing out a sword from its sheath by your waist”. A more advanced shot would be to would turn the shoulders further around than just sideways. They would look at the ball over their shoulder as the body coils up at the beginning of the swing. The shoulders would begin rotating forward and then would stop and let the racquet and arm whip through the contact. The increased coil and turning of the shoulders at the start will produce a longer and more powerful swing. The finish of the swing involves the knuckles of the racquet hand driving through the contact zone as the racquet begins to point forward. The racquet finishes by pointing straight ahead where the ball should be going or up to the sky. The angle that the racquet and the arm make at contact should be maintained through out the finish. Wrist snap can add power but will cause a lack of control. A well timed, smooth, graceful one handed backhand is a beautiful thing to watch. Just as the two handed backhand took the game by storm in the 80’s, the one hander is making a strong comeback. Just watch Roger Federer, Tommy Haas, Tommy Robredo, Richard Gasquet, Justine Henin and Amelie Mauresmo. Doug Hofer, USPTA www.hofertennis.com December 11, 2007 |
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| EASTERN BACKHAND GRIP |
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