Topspin technique
Vlada Simanek asked 3 weeks ago
Hi coaches, I’d like to ask for some advice. I’m struggling with my topspin technique, mainly my backhand topspin—especially against backspin—where I can’t seem to be consistent. I play at a lower level where players are used to playing backspin to backspin, but I’d like to play more offensively and win points on my own rather than waiting for my opponent to make a mistake. However, I’m not able to stay consistent, and I’m not sure exactly what I’m doing wrong in my technique. To start with, I’m trying to build as much consistency as possible. I know it’s easier against a robot, but until I can hit 10 out of 10 balls consistently on the robot, I don’t think I’ll be able to transfer it into matches yet. Next time, I’ll try to record some competitive or training matches as well. Thank you in advance for any advice.Topspin to topspin https://youtu.be/EunjAT9O-HsTopspin to backspin https://youtu.be/ghJMQ23m9oo
Dan Academy Coach answered 3 weeks ago
Hey Vlada, I’ve just had a look at the video you sent and there’s a couple of things that will help you be more consistent. On both sides when you do the topspin against backspin you need to use your legs to help you in the shot a bit more, so sinking down into your knees and then pushing back up, this will help you generate the lift and spin over the net and let you be more relaxed in the upper body. Also trying to get the feeling that you are storing energy so there is a small pause at the end of the back swing before you release the shot forward, think about a spring being squashed and then the energy released. This will help you have more acceleration through the contact which is very important.
The last thing that will help is going for a steeper angle up the back of the ball and trying to go for a higher arc, so try to make the ball go over the net with ore height, even if it’s bit higher and slower in the beginning that’s ok, you will be more consistent and you can then focus later on getting more speed and power. Dan 🙂
