A backhand in pickleball is a shot played on the side opposite the paddle arm—the left side of the body for right-handed players and the right side for left-handed players. Backhands are often the weakest part of an amateur player's game as they are a less natural movement than forehands. They can be played with either one or two hands.
What is the Definition of Backhand in Pickleball?
A pickleball backhand is a shot hit from the non-dominant side of the body. For right-handed pickleball players, this means backhand shots are struck with the paddle head to the left of the body; this is reversed for left-handed pickleball players. Backhand strokes can be played with one or two hands.
Plenty of pickleball players have a weak backhand compared to their forehand. This is because forehands are hit with the palm facing forward, while backhands are hit with the knuckles facing forward.
Most movements we make in everyday life—like opening a door or shaking someone’s hand—are made with a palm-forward motion. For this reason, forehands are more natural than backhands.
How Do You Execute a Successful Backhand Shot in Pickleball?
Many people struggle with the proper backhand technique, leading to errant backhand shots and a lack of confidence in backhand groundstrokes.
To hit a proper backhand stroke, follow these simple steps:
- Grip: For the backhand, use a Continental grip. Hold the paddle like you’re shaking hands with it, ensuring a firm yet comfortable grip.
- Start From the ‘Ready Position’: feet shoulder-width apart, weight slightly forward, paddle in the center of the body.
- Paddle Position: Keep your paddle in front of you, with the paddle face perpendicular to the net.
- Body Alignment: Turn your shoulders and hips to face the side of the court, aligning them with the direction of your intended shot.
- Backswing: Initiate the backswing by turning your shoulders and hips, not just moving your arm. This generates more power.
- Contact Point: Hit the ball in front of your body. The ideal point is waist-high, where you can strike the ball squarely with the paddle.
- Direction: Direct the follow-through towards your target. This ensures that the ball travels in the desired direction.
- Control: Avoid over-swinging. A controlled, smooth follow-through helps in placing the ball accurately.
- Remember to Move Your Feet! Many people get stuck once they reach the point of contact. Remember, your whole body needs to work together.
Two-handed Backhand vs One-handed Backhand
The decision of whether to employ a one-handed backhand or a two-handed backhand comes down to personal preference.
Many players with a tennis background use the two-handed backhand, as that is the more common technique in tennis.
However, pickleball is a very different game from tennis. It is played over smaller distances and with less time between shots, meaning there is less time to get into a two-handed position.
Pickleball paddles are also much smaller than tennis rackets. This means that many non-tennis players will find that the one-handed variation is their preferred method.
One-handed backhands are quicker and have longer reach. Switching from back to forehand is easier as both employ the same grip. One-handed backhands are also more maneuverable, making it easier to hit delicate shots such as a crosscourt backhand dink.
However, the two-handed variation is more stable, making it easier to hit consistent and powerful backhands. Having the extra hand makes it easier to hit powerful shots and can be good for players who have trouble engaging the body as it forces better rotation.
Pros & Cons of Two-Handed Backhands
| Pros | Cons |
| Power and Stability: Two hands on the paddle provide more power and stability, especially useful for returning strong shots. | Limited Range of Motion: The two-handed backhand can restrict your range of motion, potentially limiting your shot variety. |
| Reach: It can be easier to reach and return shots that are further away from your body. | Mobility: It may require more footwork to position yourself properly for the shot. |
| Control: Many players find it easier to control the shot, particularly when adding spin. | Transition Time: Switching between forehand and backhand grips can take longer, which might be challenging during fast-paced volleys. |
Pros & Cons of One-Handed Backhands
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexibility: Offers a greater range of motion, allowing for a variety of shots and angles. | Less Power: Offers less power than a two-handed backhand, especially for beginners or those with less arm strength. |
| Quicker Transition: Easier and faster to switch between forehand and backhand, aiding in rapid play. | Stability: It can be more challenging to maintain stability and control, especially against powerful shots. |
| Less Strength Required: Requires less strength and can be more wrist-oriented, which some players find easier. | Precision: Requires a higher degree of precision and timing, which can be challenging for new players. |
10 Types of Backhands to Try
1. Backhand Groundstroke
- Description: A basic backhand shot used for groundstrokes. It involves a direct, flat hit, typically used to drive the ball deep into the opponent’s court.
- Application: Effective for baseline rallies and when you need to return a fast, low ball.
2. Backhand Topspin
- Description: Executed by brushing up the back of the ball, creating forward rotation or topspin.
- Application: Great for applying offensive pressure, as topspin makes the ball dip and bounce higher, challenging the opponent’s return.
3. Backhand Lob
- Description: A backhand stroke that sends the ball high and deep into the opponent’s court, usually over their heads.
- Application: Effective against players who are positioned close to the net, giving you time to reposition or forcing them to hit a difficult overhead shot.
4. Backhand Serve
- Description: While less common than the forehand serve, the backhand serve involves striking the ball in a serving motion using the backhand.
- Application: The backhand serve can be a strategic choice for players who feel more comfortable or have more control with their backhand.
5. Backhand Slice
- Description: This shot involves striking the ball with a downward brushing motion, imparting backspin.
- Application: Useful for defensive plays, changing the pace of the game, and keeping the ball low to the net.
6. Backhand Drop Shot
- Description: A delicate and precise shot where the ball is hit softly and lands gently in the opponent’s non-volley zone or kitchen. The backhand drop shot requires finesse and control.
- Application: This shot is often used when transitioning from the baseline to the net. It’s effective in moving your opponent forward.
7. Backhand Dink
- Description: A soft, controlled backhand shot played just over the net, often with a slight underspin.
- Application: Crucial in the non-volley zone (kitchen) play, aiming to outmaneuver the opponent in a soft-game exchange.
8. Backhand Smash
- Description: A powerful, aggressive backhand stroke, typically executed in response to a high ball.
- Application: Used to finish a point or put the opponent on the defensive, especially effective when a ball is lobbed too short.
9. Cross-Court Backhand
- Description: A backhand shot aimed diagonally across the court, changing the direction of play.
- Application: Useful for moving your opponent out of position and opening up the court.
10. Backhand Block
- Description: A defensive shot that absorbs the power of an aggressive shot from the opponent, often with minimal backswing.
- Application: Ideal for handling fast volleys or smashes, especially at the net or in fast-paced exchanges.
The Tactical Advantages of Mastering Your Backhands
Having a solid backhand can benefit your game greatly because plenty of pickleball players have weak backhands.
If you can develop a consistent backhand, it means you can dominate both sides of the court rather than just a single side.
Many pickleball players compensate for a weak backhand by running ‘around the ball’ – in other words, manipulating their body so they can always hit forehands. However, this technique takes much longer and gives you less time to set yourself up and execute your shot correctly. A good backhand is far quicker and more effective.
Having a strong backhand can also make you a better doubles player. Doubles requires that each player spends half of their time on each side of the court (unless you use the stacking technique!). So hitting a strong backhand can make you a potent teammate and partner.
You can also consider ways to use your opponent’s weak backhand to your advantage. If you notice that you are playing against someone who is more comfortable on one side, try hitting toward their backhand. Force them to hit the shots they don’t enjoy!
