Backhand Technique: Single, Double, and Slice

Key Points

• There’s 3 types of backhands: single-handed, two-handed, and slice
• Similar concept to forehand: the legs, shoulder turn, and extension are crucial
• Imagine a brick wall behind you (keeps paddle out in front)
• On the extension / follow through you should imagine pointing your paddle towards your target (in practice you can “freeze” it there)
• Same as one-hander: Legs, shoulder turn, extension, brick wall behind you
• Practicing lefty forehands with the same grip as a two-hander will improve your two-hander
• The left hand is the “directional tool” of the two-handed backhand
• Put your left index finger on the paddle for a better feel of the ball (improves the “directional tool”)
• The shape of the two-handed backhand should feel the same as when practicing the lefty forehand - extending the left arm out in front is crucial
• Aim for the 3:00 spot on the ball
• Extend the paddle forward
• In practice, you can freeze the extension to make sure your paddle is aimed towards your target
• Legs, shoulder turn, and imaginary brick wall are all important