A strong backhand is essential for dominating the kitchen line and defending against hard drives. But many players struggle with consistency, power, or control. In this guide, you’ll learn 5 drills used by pros to refine your backhand technique, along with common mistakes to avoid.
Why Your Backhand Matters
The backhand is one of the most underrated yet essential shots in pickleball. Whether you’re defending a hard drive or executing a soft dink, a strong backhand can:
- Improve consistency in rallies.
- Add versatility to your game.
- Reduce errors caused by weak or awkward shots.
According to pro player Simone Jardim, “A reliable backhand is the foundation of a well-rounded game. It’s not just about power—it’s about control and placement.”
Common Backhand Mistakes
- Arming the Ball: Using only your arm instead of rotating your torso.
- Poor Footwork: Not stepping into the shot, leading to weak contact.
- Grip Too Tight: Limits wrist snap and paddle angle control.
5 Drills to Master Your Backhand
Drill #1: Wall Rally Practice
Goal: Improve hand-eye coordination and control.
Steps:
- Stand 6 feet from a wall.
- Hit the ball against the wall using backhand strokes.
- Aim for 20 consecutive hits without dropping the ball.
Pro Tip: Use a foam ball for slower, more controlled practice.
Drill #2: Two-Handed Backhand for Stability
Goal: Build control and power with a two-handed grip.
Steps:
- Grip the paddle with both hands (dominant hand at the base).
- Practice hitting against a wall or partner, focusing on smooth swings.
- Gradually transition to one-handed backhands as you gain confidence.
Pro Tip: Keep your elbows close to your body for better control.
Drill #3: Cross-Court Dinking
Goal: Develop precision and soft touch.
Steps:
- Stand at the kitchen line with a partner.
- Exchange cross-court dinks using only backhand strokes.
- Focus on keeping the ball low and within the kitchen.
Pro Tip: Use a continental grip for better paddle control.
Drill #4: Shadow Swinging
Goal: Refine swing mechanics without a ball.
Steps:
- Stand in front of a mirror.
- Practice backhand swings, focusing on proper form.
- Rotate hips and shoulders with each swing.
Pro Tip: Record yourself to analyze and improve your technique.
Drill #5: Target Practice
Goal: Boost accuracy for backhand drives and drops.
Steps:
- Place targets (e.g., cones or towels) on the court.
- Aim to hit the targets with backhand shots from different positions.
- Alternate between drives, drops, and lobs.
Pro Tip: Start with larger targets and shrink them as you improve.
Pro Tips for Backhand Mastery
- Use the Right Grip: A continental grip (shakehands position) offers versatility for spins and control.
- Stay Low: Bend your knees to maintain balance during aggressive shots.
- Film Your Swing: Analyze your technique to spot flaws.
- Practice Daily: Consistency is key—dedicate 10–15 minutes daily to backhand drills.
FAQs
1. Should I use a one-handed or two-handed backhand?
Two-handed backhands offer more control, while one-handed backhands provide reach. Experiment with both!
2. How do I add topspin to my backhand?
Brush upward on the ball with a slightly closed paddle face.
3. Can I use my backhand for serves?
Yes! Backhand serves are great for short, angled shots.
4. How do I fix a weak backhand?
Focus on footwork, grip, and torso rotation. Drills like wall rallies and shadow swings can help.
5. Are backhand drills suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Start with basic drills like wall rallies and progress to advanced techniques.
A strong backhand can transform your game, giving you the confidence to handle any shot. Incorporate these drills into your practice routine, and you’ll see noticeable improvements in power, accuracy, and consistency.
Leave a Reply