Ok...last post regarding slice backhand (promise)!!

[VictorS.]

I know I've posted about ten different threads regarding the slice backhand. But here's one last one (maybe):

I feel like my game overall, is improving rapidly...more and more everyday. My forehand is improving as is my serve and net game. However, my two-handed backhand is as stagnant as ever. I can't get the same topspin on the backhand and the consistency and accuracy is just not there. However, I've really started working on a one-handed slice backhand. Currently, it really lacks pace (in comparison to the rest of my game). But I definitely think my form is good and I have the fundamentals down...to where it can become a potent weapon (once I become conident in the shot). Overall, I would say my game is easily 4.5. My forehand is definitely 5.0 quality as is my serve. My netgame, while improving is probably closer to 4.0 as is my backhand.

I'm wondering: should I start focusing on the one-handed slice as my primary backhand with my twohanded drive as an emergency shot? Obviously it's worked well for players like graf, el ayanoui, and forget. I've noticed the slice backhand really throws people off with the rhythm, etc. In addition, I've noticed my backhand volley has become much more fluid and natural as a result of my work on the slice backhand. My goal is to become a 5.0 player right now, without question...and even beyond. It's tough to explain, but I feel hitting the one-handed slice (as opposed to the twohanded topspin shot)....it just feels very fluid and natural. In a sense, it just feels "right."

 

[thehustler]

I personally use both. I use the 2hbh mainly when I'm either pushed wide and on the run, or when I want to crack one cross court and put my opponent on the defensive so I can come to net. I use the slice to slow the pace, especially if we're having a high pace rally. Usually my opponent will be thrown off by this and try to hit the ball too hard, usually resulting in an unforced error. About 9/10 times I will use the 2hbh and that other time I will use the slice when I see an opening that only the slice will create. I really like having the 2hbh, mainly because I can put a lot of power into it and it can be dangerous on passing shots and swinging volleys. You just need to do what you feel is best for you. HTH.

 

[vinouspleasure]

Personally, I think it's going to be hard to become a 5.0 player without a topspin drive bh. Every player I've seen at that level have one. I like to hit a down the line bh slice as an approach shot. And in doubles, I find a sliced return in front of the returner is harder for my opponent to volley than a topspin drive.

I have friends that rate their strokes and are rudely awakened in coimpetition. Have you beaten 4.5 players?

 

[andfor]

If you do not develop a dependable BH drive you'll find it difficult to get to the level you want. I do not know one 5.0 who for the most part exclusivley slices their BH.

The previous poster makes a good point and asks a good question. Have you beaten any legit 4.5 players?

 

[VictorS.]

I've beaten guys who are 4.5 before. I've hit with guys who used to be on the satellite tour (yrs ago)...so I think I have a good gauge of where my game is at. My backhand is without a doubt my weak link. My net game is probably almost as weak as my backhand stroke. But I've noticed when I really work on it...it improves pretty rapidly. With my volleys, it's just a question of timing and practice.

I've noticed many of you mention that it is imperative to have a topspin/drive backhand. Is it not possible to hit a slice/drive backhand a la Ken Rosewall? Is that too difficult a shot?

 

[vinouspleasure]

the game/technology/strokes were a lot different in the time of rosewall. My experience is 1) that under pressure, a sliced backhand tends to float a little which becomes candy for a netrusher 2) you have less margin for error in terms of depth and net clearance.

I would never say you can't develop a great slice drive and compete at any level. I think your return on investment is going to be much higher by working with a coach to fix your current set of bh problems.

On your volley, think "less is more". The two most common volleying mistakes at the 4.0 level is letting the ball get behind you and too much movement with the arm wrist. Take the ball early, out in front of you...prepare by making sure the racquet is well in front. On the excessive motion thing, just lay your wrist back and let the racquet do all the work. No motion of the arm or wrist. Once you've mastered that you can add punch by gently guiding the ball in the direction of your mass.

 

[Bungalo Bill]

I know I've posted about ten different threads regarding the slice backhand. But here's one last one (maybe):

I feel like my game overall, is improving rapidly...more and more everyday. My forehand is improving as is my serve and net game. However, my two-handed backhand is as stagnant as ever. I can't get the same topspin on the backhand and the consistency and accuracy is just not there. However, I've really started working on a one-handed slice backhand. Currently, it really lacks pace (in comparison to the rest of my game). But I definitely think my form is good and I have the fundamentals down...to where it can become a potent weapon (once I become conident in the shot). Overall, I would say my game is easily 4.5. My forehand is definitely 5.0 quality as is my serve. My netgame, while improving is probably closer to 4.0 as is my backhand.

I'm wondering: should I start focusing on the one-handed slice as my primary backhand with my twohanded drive as an emergency shot? Obviously it's worked well for players like graf, el ayanoui, and forget. I've noticed the slice backhand really throws people off with the rhythm, etc. In addition, I've noticed my backhand volley has become much more fluid and natural as a result of my work on the slice backhand. My goal is to become a 5.0 player right now, without question...and even beyond. It's tough to explain, but I feel hitting the one-handed slice (as opposed to the twohanded topspin shot)....it just feels very fluid and natural. In a sense, it just feels "right."

Victor,

No question the slice backhand will carry you far. It is a great shot to have. However, you are probably finding out that it is a delicate shot and control is extremely important when slicing. I would say keep developing this shot as you will need it for various reasons.

For the twohanded backhand, an inconsistant shoulder turn and body position is a huge reason why people can not hit a good twohander. It is difficult to develop a fluid twoahander by hitting balls that have pace - even though you think you can. You must slow down the balls and allow your body to relax - especially in the arms and hands. Turn your shoulders with relaxed arms and hands, then turn them back. As you get the feel, add a small loop in the backswing but stay relaxed. Your both shoulders need to touch your chin accordingly during the backswing and forward swing. Keep a semi open stance so your hips dont get blocked which is where a lot of the power comes from.

On the swing go low to high but push up at a steady angle with your tophand as you are in the forward swing. DO not bend your arms up to soon or you will skim the ball. Make contact with the ball as it comes within the width of your feet. If you lunge and are not in position you risk pushing the ball or turning your wrists up and hitting long. The racquet needs to be below the incoming ball and steadily raised into and through the ball. If you raise to fast, you risk topping the ball and sending it into the net. Do not swing at the elbows otherwise you will break too soon which causes numerous problems.

Keep your head still a foot before and a foot after contact. Freeze the head which should be facing the 45 degree angle. Freeze your head even if you mishit. Let your eyes and body learn how to position itself for good contact.

Remember for the twohander, hit with balls that are fed slowly to you, relax, use your shoulders, step forward, go through the ball, freeze the head and finish.

 

[VictorS.]

Bungalo Bill, thanks for the advice. I definitely notice my arms and hands are much tighter and not as relaxed on my 2-hand backhand in comparison to my forehand. This probably contributes to the lack of fluidity on the shot. Thanks so much to everyone for your input. Hopefully I can get my backhand to improve....I'm not losing hope!!

 

[Bungalo Bill]

Slow balls, relaxed arms, turn the shoulders (use torso as well) well in both directions, hands go through the ball together, finish high with head facing contact spot which should be about on the 45 degree angle, do it again and again. Once you got it, speed up the ball, then add movement as you progress. You will have a great backhand if you do this. No short cuts.

Ohone last things, the stance you should employ for the twohander is a wider base so you dont spin like a top, this helps maintain balance as the centrifugal forces try to throw you off. AP belt helps a lot in this area.