How to Hit a Backhand Ground Stroke in Tennis
The
backhand ground stroke is an essential aspect of tennis, as both a defensive
and offensive shot. Follow these steps for a right-handed player. Reverse
the alignment if you're a left-handed player.
- Move from the ready position, pulling the racket back with the proper grip.
- Use the Continental grip for a topspin or the Eastern grip for a slice, drop shot or lob.
- Keep your right hand loose on the grip.
- Tuck the racket toward the inside of the body, with both arms held close to the body.
- Cross over with your right foot.
- Dip the right shoulder to the front.
- Release the racket head to take the shot, with a sense of throwing the shot from your right shoulder.
- Finish the two-handed shot up and over the right shoulder.
- Make a one-handed shot by extending your playing arm straight out.
- Extend the opposite arm backward as a counterbalance.
- Tips:
- Take small steps to position yourself after getting to the ball.
- Try to avoid muscling the shot. Tightening your forearm can cause pain in the wrist and elbow. Let the racket head do the work for you.
Tip from eHow