Have you ever found yourself unsure whether to hit a forehand or backhand during a game? Knowing when to use each shot can make a big difference in how you play.
Let’s dive into the details of forehands and backhands and discover why our friend and pickleball coach, Nicholas Wade, believes you should hit way more backhands than forehands.
Why Backhands are Your Best Friend
One of the great things about backhands is that they let you cover more ground on the court. When you hit a backhand, you can stretch your paddle from the far left side (for right-handed players) all the way to your right side.
Specifically, the backhand can cover the area from the far left end of the court across to your right side, reaching even to the inside of your right knee. This extensive coverage means you can handle a wide range of shots without needing to reposition drastically. Here’s why that’s super helpful:
- Better Reach: A backhand lets you extend further across your body, making it easier to return wide shots on your left.
- Nice Angles: The way you hold your paddle for a backhand naturally gives you better control, helping you keep the ball low and in play.
Here’s coach and pro player Nicholas Wade making a case for it:
5 Big Limits of Forehands
Forehands are powerful and can be easier to control at first, but they have their limits. Here’s why they might hold you back:
- Limited Reach: Forehands work well within a certain area, but beyond that, they can get awkward, especially on your left side (for right-handed players). This restricted range means you might miss shots that are out of your immediate reach.
- Positioning Problems: Forehands often require you to adjust your body position quickly, which can be challenging. You might find yourself struggling to get into the right position fast enough, slowing you down and affecting your shot accuracy.
- Elbow Jamming: When hitting forehands, you can easily get jammed up with your elbow against your body. This makes it difficult to execute clean shots, especially when the ball is close to you.
- Lower Ball Challenges: High forehands on the backhand side can sometimes work, but as the ball gets lower, it becomes harder to lift it adequately. This can lead to more shots ending up in the net.
- Inconsistent Switching: In a fast-paced game, deciding when to switch from a forehand to a backhand can be tough. This split-second decision-making can lead to errors and missed opportunities, as you might not be quick enough to adjust.
By understanding these limitations, you can better appreciate why focusing on improving your backhand can give you an edge on the court.
Getting Ready to Hit Backhands: Your Stance Matters
To get the most out of your backhand, it’s important to start with the right ready position. By holding your paddle slightly towards your backhand side, you’re setting yourself up for success.
- Paddle Angle: Hold your paddle slightly tilted towards your backhand side, not straight down the middle. It should feel natural and comfortable.
- Feet Placement: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed. This stance keeps you ready to move in any direction.
- Hand Position: Keep both hands on the paddle for better control, especially if you use a two-handed backhand. This grip stabilizes your paddle and improves your shot accuracy.
