How to Hit a One Handed Backhand in Tennis

The backhand in tennis is hit either one-handed or two-handed. Depending on your strength, natural swing and preference, you can use the one-handed backhand. This type of backhand requires a careful technique to ensure you are hitting the ball using the correct grip and positioning your body correctly. Set yourself up for a successful one-handed backhand by checking on a variety of techniques.

Things You'll Need

  • A tennis racquet
  • Tennis balls
  • Someone to play against or a ball machine
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check your tennis grip. Hold your tennis racquet in your playing hand like a hammer, or the continental grip. With your opposite hand, turn the head of the racquet to the right for right-handed players and to the left for left-handed players. Turn only slightly, so that the head of the tennis racquet is no longer perpendicular to the ground.

    • 2

      Turn your body away from the ball so that your tennis racquet pulls back. Square your shoulders to face the sidelines of the tennis court. When you pull your tennis racquet back, put your non-playing hand on the throat of the tennis racquet as you pull it back. This helps steady the racquet when as you hit.

    • 3

      Maintain eye contact with the ball. Drive your arm forward, hitting the tennis ball. As you hit the tennis ball, snap your wrist upward to get proper topspin on the ball. After you hit the ball, keep swinging your arm to get a proper follow through. Your follow through should end up with your arm pointing straight up to the sky.

    • 4

      Keep your head down after hitting the ball. This head position prevents your shoulders from opening up and forcing a mis-hit of the tennis ball.