Add Pace to That Backhand
by Mat Galemmo

If your backhand lacks pace and depth it may be due to a common trait. Players often bend and lift their elbow before contact with the ball. If you were to watch Edberg (for a one hander) and Hewitt (for a two hander) prepare for the backhand, you would see that their arm is straight and close to the body when they make their backswing. As they start to accelerate the racquet to meet the ball in front of them there is no change in the straight arm. The stroke is smoothly hinged at the shoulder and does not bend at the elbow. You have to "straight arm" the ball without changing your arm set-up. This technique will have you leading with your racquet instead of your elbow or wrist.

You may bend your elbow to hit a backhand volley when the ball is close to your body. Out of necessity, you will bend your elbow to hit a sliced backhand approach shot or groundstroke.

To get the feel for a straight arm stroke, tuck a tennis ball under your armpit, take the ready position and have your buddy hit a medium-paced ball to your backhand side. The object is to make contact with the ball before the ball tucked in your armpit drops out. Be sure to finish with a full, high backswing as though you are airing out your armpit.

After you practice this and have the feel for keeping your straight arm close to your body, try hitting the backhand without the tucked ball. You will be pleased to see your stroke go through the ball sending it to your target with more pace.