The Basic (Classic) Backhand
by Mat Galemmo

At practice, some players try too many irregular motions. This will inhibit muscle retention in your strokes. It's a good idea to stay "basic" to build your stroke consistency.

THE GRIP: Turn your hand from the forehand grip until your first knuckle is on top of the handle. Extend the index finger, your thumb may be either across the handle or curled around it.

WAITING POSITION: Stand facing the net, knees slightly bent, weight evenly distributed and slightly forward on the balls of your feet. The racket is held in front of your body, elbows in close, and forearm parallel to the ground. The racket is supported with your free hand. Once you have the backhand grip, the racket should be pointing toward the sideline, not toward the net.

TURN: The shoulders and hips pivot so that your weight shifts onto the left foot and the racket hand touches the left hip bone.

BACKSWING: The left hand slides down the racket to cradle the right hand. The racket is on edge and the angle of the racket and forearm remain the same throughout.

STEP AND HIT: The right foot steps toward the net with your weight shifting onto it. The ball is contacted a little in front of the right leg, approximately waist high and the arm is relatively straight and the wrist is firm.

FOLLOW THROUGH: The follow through is a long, continuous sweeping motion, finishing high with the arm relatively straight. The butt of the racket is past the right eye. (for right handers)

Your weight is now completely on the front foot and your hips and shoulders have turned halfway toward the net. Unlike the forehand, they do not turn as much in the backhand.