Overlapping grip on 2H Backhand?

[djbrown]

My 2HBH feels most comfortable when I overlap the two hands when gripping the racket. Basically, the thumb on my lower hand extends and ends up resting in the palm of my top hand. And of course, the fingers get interlocked a bit as well, with some overlap between my top and bottom hand.

I'm assuming this isn't normal , but is it something I should work on correcting? I would consider my 2HBH to be right-arm dominant as well if that makes a difference.

[kevhen]

Yes, my thumb is in the palm and my pinkie sort of rests on my index finger. Is there any other way? My 2HBH is 4.0 level for rallies and possibly 4.5 on passing shots. (Approach to my forehand side or proceed to net at your own caution!)

[djbrown]

In the video captures etc.. I've seen of the 2HBH (Hewitt, Hingis, etc..) there's rarely any overlap between the two hands. I've tried that, but it just feels extremely unnatural. So I stick with what I'm comfortable with.

[kevhen]

Yes do what feels right to you. I am probably left-hand dominate with the backhand since I am left-handed but play tennis with a right hand forehand. I think I used to play without any interlock when I was younger, but have somehow slowly moved both hands closer together over time. I think it's helped with control and possibly with hitting harder passing shots. I think having the left hand lower on the handle by overlapping the grips a little would allow you to generate more power. Not sure though. Just know what works for me.

[Bungalo Bill]

A long long time ago I had what I used to call a "golfers grip". It is similar to yours. It isnt wrong to have your grip. However, when I made the switch to position my hands "the right way" it felt ackward for about two weeks. It was less wristy and whippy which I had to get used to.

But I am glad I made the switch.

[Kobble]

I believe Chris Evert overlapped her pinky. So, stick with what works for you.

[kevhen]

Yes, my backhand with my headlight racquet has been very whippy especially on my backhand side, so I added head tape all the way around the frame to add about a half ounce of weight to slow it down. I like having a backhand that is a little wristy and whippy though as I can generate more spin and pace with it. I can get balls to dip quickly on passing shots to make for difficult volleys. But I can believe without any overlap the swing might feel more solid but be a much flatter backhand. I may play around with using no overlap just to see what the differences are. I don't use any overlap when I play golf, only tennis!

[djbrown]

good to know I'm not alone in this As was mentioned, it is very similiar to the overlapping grip in golf, which I also use. As BBil mentioned, the overlap does tend to lead to a whippy backhand.

It does seem to help me hit low, cross-court passing shots, so I'll stick with what works until it stops