backhand-topspin-drive
Nomad asked 3 years ago
Hi Guys
I am looking to develop a strong attacking backhand from further back from the table (about 2 metres). To do this my back swing is coming from the right hand side of my body, roughly waist height or slightly lower, with my wrist at approximately 90 degrees to my forearm. I am also trying to contact the ball on the right hand side to generate more spin and power (I use more ‘snappy’ wrist action and extended follow through). My legs are bent and power is also generated from the body turn and transfer of weight from left to right leg.
The video link shows me starting with backhand counter hitting then moving slowly back until I am about 2 metres from the back edge of the table. I appreciate that timing and movement is crucial and would welcome any thoughts you might have on producing a consistent stroke. Perhaps a possible video tutorial?
Regards
Alex
Tom Academy Coach answered 3 years ago
Hey Alex, the backhands are looking good. I can see so much improvement over the last year or so compared to before.
So a couple of things that will help the consistency of these shots, firstly trying to keep a smooth and relaxed action so that your contact is more bushing rather than a thick contact. I would also just watch out that your right foot doesn’t get in front of your left when you are playing your backhand. This makes it very hard in a match to swap to your forehand afterwards. So in this situation when the ball is in one position it’s fine but in matches that’s important to have the right foot back further.
Your overall movement and technical part of the shot has improved a lot, I think the last thing is just making sure the elbow is stable which allows the forearm to push out in front and accelerate through the contact point. The main thing I feel is just having a little bit more relaxed and smooth action which will really help the control, keep up the good work! Tom
NomadThanks Tom
Good points. I am working on a more relaxed ‘brushing’ action at the moment where my forearm and wrist are more ‘flexible’ (especially the wrist movement) which, hopefully, will produce more spin and speed with less effort. Looking at my own video I think the backhand topspin action is a little ‘tense’ which stiffens the muscles and so restricts control as well as spin and speed.
By keeping the elbow ‘stable’ does this mean there should be liltle or no lateral movement of the elbow and speed should come from the forearm and flexible wrist with some degree of transference of weight from right to left leg (as a right handed player)?
Also I didn’t notice that my right leg was slightly in front of the left, so thanks for pointing that out.
I will send another video later for your comments when I have attempted to put your points into practise.
Best wishes
Alex
