How to Hit a Two-Handed Backhand Stronger

Tennis players naturally feel comfortable when stroking a forehand shot. Using their dominant hand contributes to a feeling of confidence, which generally leads to better results. However, focusing solely on perfecting a forehand neglects the all-important backhand. Many players elect to use a two-handed backhand shot to provide more power on those shots. By following proper positioning and technique, you can become more powerful with your backhanded shots.

Things You'll Need

  • Tennis racket
  • Tennis balls
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take hold of your tennis racket with a proper two-handed backhand grip. For right-handed players, your right hand is the bottom hand and your left hand lies above your right hand on the grip. Fingers and thumbs loop around the racket.

    • 2

      Position yourself where the incoming shot is heading. A split-step technique, which involves staying light on your feet by taking small hops, lets you track down balls and get in proper position.

    • 3

      Put your weight on your back foot as you begin your back swing. For a right-handed player hitting a backhand, the back foot is the left foot. For a lefty, the back foot would be the right foot. Your arms stay relatively straight as you bring the racket back, and the racket head moves just above waist level.

    • 4

      Start the forward portion of your backhand swing with the racket now looping below the ball. Your front arm bends at the elbow and your back arm remains relatively straight. The racket head stays about 1 foot below the ball and will come up to make contact. This upward movement produces top-spin and a stronger backhand stroke.

    • 5

      Transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you begin your forward swing on the ball. Pivot your front foot, turn your shoulders and hips through the swing and lift the heel of your back foot as weight comes through the swing, adding power to your shot. Keep your knees slightly bent.

    • 6

      Keep your eye on the tennis ball throughout the backhand motion. This ensures pure contact will be made, creating a more powerful stroke.