They say cool people don’t look back at explosions. That is what the powerful backhand is all about, bringing destruction to your opponents without even looking back. This guide will teach you about the common technical errors that most players make while executing the backhand shot, and how to correct them to make your backhand a powerful backhand shot.
Having a powerful backhand lob not only helps you make unexpected plays. It also gives you a way out in tight situations. Got caught out of position? A powerful backhand will give you the way out by returning the ball to the opponent’s back court and give you time to recover.
Let us begin the guide!
First Tip: Get Comfortable with the Backhand
Getting comfortable with your backhand prepares you to face the challenges of the backhand lob. Having good accuracy and power will help you more effectively practice and get the powerful backhand you want. Start with backhand lifts and drives, these techniques are easier to learn, and have the same wrist-flick motion that will be required later on in the backhand lob.
Second Tip: Perpendicular racket head
Having a perpendicular racket head to hit towards the direction you are facing would help you maximize the transmittance of force. This will help you get the powerful backhand you need. Not having a perpendicular racket head (aka slicing) during contact of the shuttle is one of the most common difficulties faced by many when attempting a backhand. While the change in the gripping and the twisting of the wrist may take some time getting used to, it is definitely worth the effort to get the powerful backhand you want.
Third Tip: Assume the powerful Backhand Grip
The thumb should be placed square and comfortably on the grip to ensure that you can bring out your powerful backhand. Do not that the racket face should be flat and not perpendicular to your thumb; don’t place your thumb flat on the side of the grip. There are many useful guides out there on the internet. Learn how to hold your racket proper in this detailed guide that I have specifically selected here!
Last Tip: Raise your elbow before taking the shot
Raise your elbow when taking the shot. This will help you utilize the power of extending your elbow and achieve a powerful backhand. Many rely solely on the retraction of their shoulder when doing the backhand, and thus cannot get the powerful backhand they desire.
Conclusion
The backhand is quite a complex technique to learn, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it on the first few tries. Consistent practice is key, don’t be afraid to try it out even though it may be embarrassingly horrendous at first.
In addition to learning the technique itself, proper footwork is necessary to apply this technique in an actual game. Our basic backcourt footwork guide (Coming soon!) will outline how to make sure you position yourself well to execute a powerful backhand.
Ciao!