Saying basic doesn't mean easy. However, the backhand hit in paddle tennis is one of the most basic movements, but not so easy to learn. As soon as you master this blow you will be able to perform much better in a defensive position. And when you really control the backhand shot, you will apply it even in attacking situations.
A common question before learning the stroke is whether it is done with one or two hands. Well, it is common for players with extensive experience in tennis to have the habit of performing the backhand with two hands. On the other hand, for beginner players with no previous experience, the stroke is taught with one hand. Neither technique is incorrect, although it will be difficult to achieve a little more than some shots with the two-handed backhand.
One-Handed Backhand Hit
The backhand hitting sequence in paddle tennis is divided into the following phases:
- Preparation: the player starts from a static situation at the back of the court. Shoulders parallel to the feet. Now yes, the shovel held with both hands at chest height. With semi-bent knees capable of going out at any time to hit the ball.
- Armed: the ball approaches the player. It's time to turn your shoulders. In the case of a left-handed player, he will turn them to the right and if he is right-handed, to the left. With the feet already placed on the side, the paddle will also be placed facing the side wall and at hip height. One of the hands will remain on the fist and the other on the heart.
- blow: the racket starts its trajectory from behind and hits the ball in front of the body. At the exact moment of impact the hand that was supporting the heart of the paddle is released from the paddle. When the ball is thrown, remember to finish the shot by bringing the paddle forward. Meanwhile, the non-dominant hand will extend to form a line with the opposite hand.
Two-handed backhand stroke
The two-handed backhand shot is more typical of players who come from tennis. The waiting position is exactly the same as if the backhand was done with one hand. The first distinctive gesture appears in the blow since here both hands hold the handle of the paddle until the end. Some padel rackets even have longer grips that make two-handed backhanding easier. The example of carbon fiber padel rackets with a longer cuff is common in the Varlion brand.
Thanks to the support of both hands, the force is transferred more evenly to the blade. When opting for the two-handed backhand, the point of impact occurs somewhat further back than in the one-handed backhand.
Furthermore, in the two-handed shot, the balls that come lower will force us to rectify the position. On the road, balls with height are easier to deal with.
Other backhand strokes in padel
Taking the backhand stroke in padel a little further means starting to return cut balls. The execution is practically the same as in a topspin ball with the exception that, in this case, the ball will have to be attacked in its lower part.
Also in the paddle volley We will be forced to execute the backhand but this is a shot for players with an intermediate level.
As you can see, the backhand is an essential shot to improve on the court. Without it, many balls in the middle of the court will be orphaned and will be rival points.
