Forehand, unit turn, hand on racket position

[BOShappyplayer]

I've been practicing with my instructor and watching instructional DVD to make my forehands more consistent. One thing I've noticed (aside from good footwork and early preparation) is that during the pivot for the forehand shot and the unit turn, some people have *both* their hands on the racket until the take-back. I've seen some people do it at my clinic and on the DVDs, but I'm not sure about the benefits (balance?) or lack thereof (does that slow down the takeback?)

I generally prepare my shot by having both hands on the racket, but when I see a forehand shot coming, I let go of my left hand (I hit with my right) and immediately do the takeback.

It works, but again, I'm also not the most consistent/powerful forehand hitter and could definitely use to help with my forehand. Especially for those who have improved their consistency on forehands, I would love to hear your thoughts/feedback.

(I have also been hitting against the wall too but it's not so easy to remember to put both hands on the racket to see if it works better since it's so natural for me to just pivot and immediately do the takeback...but if it would help me to be more consistent, I would make a mental note to try to add it in...

 

[Solat]

the L hand on the racquet helps to promote a good unit turn, it also helps to sustain balance thru the stroke

a good coaching lingo is to "look over your arm at the ball"

 

[user92626]

For me, I use my nonhitting hand to assist with the takeback as much as possible. This does 2 things: force your upperbody to turn and save some energy for the hitting hand. It's quite strenuous for the hitting arm to handle everything.

 

[albino smurf]

ditto that. push or pull with the other hand, especially on serve returns.