LESSON 6 OF 8 • BEGINNER • 7 MIN
How to Hit a Backhand
The short answer
Most beginners find the two-handed backhand easier, because the second hand adds control and power. The one-handed backhand gives more reach and is great for slices, but it takes longer to trust. Try both for a few sessions before you commit.
The backhand is the side that feels wrong
Everyone's backhand is a little awkward at first. Your body is turning the "other" way, and one arm doesn't know what the other is doing. That's normal. Give it a few weeks of regular practice and it settles down.
Two-handed backhand
For a right-hander, the left hand goes on top of the right on the handle, closer to the end of the racquet. Think of it as a left-handed forehand with the right hand helping. Turn your shoulders so your back faces the net a little, swing low to high, and let the racquet finish around your shoulder.
The big benefit is stability. You'll get good results sooner, and it handles hard-hit balls well. The trade-off is less reach on balls hit far away from you.
One-handed backhand
The Eastern backhand grip is the usual starting point. Turn sideways early, bring the racquet back with both hands, and let your free arm stretch back behind you as you swing. Contact happens out in front of the front hip, with your head still and your eyes on the ball.
It looks lovely when it works and gives you easy access to the slice, a backspin shot that stays low and is great for defense. It asks for more timing though, and it's harder on high balls.
Which one should you pick?
Use the quiz above for a nudge. It's not magic. If you're still unsure, spend a session hitting twenty balls each way and see which one feels less weird. Plenty of strong players switched after a year or two, so it isn't a life sentence.
Common beginner mistakes
- Staying square to the net instead of turning sideways.
- Letting the ball get too close, so the arms are cramped.
- Opening the chest too early on a one-hander, which sprays the ball wide.
Try this at the court
- Drop-and-hit twenty backhands from the service line, with the same turn each time.
- Rally mini-tennis backhand to backhand with a friend. Aim for ten in a row.
Questions people ask
Is a one-handed or two-handed backhand better for beginners?
Most beginners find the two-handed backhand easier to control. The one-handed backhand has more reach but needs better timing.
Can I change my backhand later?
Yes. Many players switch. It's easier to do earlier, but it's never impossible.
What is a slice backhand?
A slice is a backhand hit high to low with backspin. It stays low after the bounce and is a handy defensive shot.