Dominate the Dink and Smash

Essential techniques for your pickleball arsenal.

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PICKLEBACKCLUB

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Hello Pickleball Warriors! 🏓✨

Welcome to this week’s PICKLEBACKCLUB spotlight! 🎾

If you’ve ever struggled with nailing that elusive two-handed backhand, fear no more. Whether you’re gearing up for your next doubles match or perfecting your solo rallies, these five steps will take your game to the next level. Let's dive in and make your backhand a weapon on the court!

Two Handed Backhand Tips

Here are our 5 steps to executing a two-handed backhand in pickleball:

1. Grip

  • Top hand (non-dominant): Use a continental grip. This grip is similar to holding a hammer, with your palm facing the paddle face.

  • Bottom hand (dominant): Use an Eastern grip for your dominant hand, like a forehand grip, with your palm facing the back of the paddle.

2. Stance and Positioning

  • Feet: Position your feet shoulder-width apart. Step sideways with your non-dominant foot (left foot for right-handed players) to align your body with the incoming ball.

  • Body: Rotate your body sideways so you’re facing the side of the court. This enables your shoulders to rotate during the shot.

  • Paddle: Hold the paddle in front of you, low and ready. Your hands should be close together on the handle.

3. Backswing

  • Rotation: Rotate your torso and shoulders away from the ball as you pull the paddle back. Your non-dominant shoulder should move away from the net.

  • Paddle position: Keep the paddle head low and slightly angled, with your wrists relaxed. Both hands should work together as you wind up for the shot.

4. Contact with the Ball

  • Step forward: As the ball approaches, step forward with your dominant foot to create more power and balance.

  • Hit the ball: Make contact with the ball in front of your body, around waist height. Ensure your paddle face is slightly angled (about 45 degrees) and aimed toward the court.

5. Follow Through

  • Continue rotation: After contact, rotate your torso through the shot. Your non-dominant shoulder should pass in front of your dominant shoulder.

  • Finish: Let the paddle finish high above your shoulder or head, following the direction of the shot. Shift your weight onto your front foot for balance.

Key Tips:

  • Timing: Ensure the ball is hit in front of you for maximum control and power.

  • Footwork: Good footwork is essential for getting into position and generating power.

  • Smooth Swing: Keep your swing fluid and controlled, avoiding tension in your arms or wrists.

Practice these steps to improve both your consistency and power with a two-handed backhand in pickleball!

The two-handed backhand is more than just a shot; it’s a game-changer. By focusing on grip, stance, and fluidity, you’ll find more consistency and power in every swing. Ready to dominate the court? Don’t forget to practice these steps, and we’d love to hear how they improve your game.

Until next week, keep swinging and keep winning! 🏓

The PICKLEBACKCLUB Team 🥒🎾

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