How to Do a Backhand Drive in Table Tennis

Shorter and quicker than the forehand drive, this backhand attack is one the most effective offensive weapons in table tennis.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic Gear
  • Table Tennis Balls
  • Table Tennis Nets
  • Table Tennis Paddles
  • Table Tennis Playing Tables
  • Table Tennis Video
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Instructions

    • 1

      Assume a squared ready position and draw your backswing back across your chest, almost to your opposite hip.

    • 2

      Pivot your shoulders so that your nonpaddle shoulder points toward your opponent.

    • 3

      Keep you backswing low, almost touching your waist, and hold the paddle face closed.

    • 4

      Swing quickly, leading with your elbow and whipping your forearm, to strike the ball at the high point of its bounce.

    • 5

      Strike the ball with a closed paddle (facing down). Aim to hit the ball in the center of the paddle, swinging upward. On this shot, topspin is caused by the closed paddle face and the upward motion of the swing.

    • 6

      Snap your wrist forward as your strike the top of the ball.

    • 7

      Follow through so that the paddle points to where you want your shot to go.

    • 8

      Keep the entire stroke smooth from start to finish.