Two-Handed Backhand Guide: Power, Rotation & Precision

Key Points

• The ideal grip on the bottom hand is continental, with the top hand being either eastern or continental
• A western grip with top hand is a red flag and should be changed
• Focus on an early unit and shoulder turn with a back leg load
• There should be separation between the elbows and the body on the takeback, but also right through contact
• Short backswings are great for handling pace, but not ideal for creating pace
• If the front foot shifts forward too early before you hit, you will lose power on the shot
• The butt cap of the racket should be pointing towards the court so the hands can flip over and generate pace
• In terms of the “action” and rotation of the hands, there shouldn’t be more than a 60 to 40 ratio, with 70/30 causing you to lose power
• The dominant hand should be straight on the takeback with the non-dominant hand bent, and then changing through contact with the dominant hand bending and the non dominant hand straightening