The One Handed Backhand Community!

[Djokovicfan4life]

wrist laid back.

Haha, I think most of the posters here have accepted that the wrist remains laid back throughout the stroke by now. It seems odd that they used an off balance backhand with his weight moving backwards as an "analysis". They could at least find a good video of his backhand like that "slow motion topspin backhand on grass" one.

P.S. Updated the list, RoddickAce.

 

[RoddickAce]

Hello, I use a 1hbh, can I join this club?

 

[drakulie]

Haha, I think most of the posters here have accepted that the wrist remains laid back throughout the stroke by now. It seems odd that they used an off balance backhand with his weight moving backwards as an "analysis". They could at least find a good video of his backhand like that "slow motion topspin backhand on grass" one.

P.S. Updated the list, RoddickAce.

I agree about the analysis and them using the off-balance shot to describe. However, I think it is good to see, because many times on the one-hander>> one doesn't have time to setup, and do a proper one-hander.

I also like that they took note of the rear foot, and how it comes off the ground. Many times, when people see me playing, they say my back foot comes off the ground and it shoudl remain planted. However, what they don't realize is that the foot has to come up, especially when hitting a higher bh to maintain balance and power.

anyway, I got an awesome new camera (shoots 60 frames per second, and video at up to 1200 frames per second). will try and get some videos up shortly.

 

[Sentinel]

Wish everyone here a happy new year! Its just begun here.

 

[RoddickAce]

Haha, I think most of the posters here have accepted that the wrist remains laid back throughout the stroke by now. It seems odd that they used an off balance backhand with his weight moving backwards as an "analysis". They could at least find a good video of his backhand like that "slow motion topspin backhand on grass" one.

P.S. Updated the list, RoddickAce.

Thnx ! 10 char

 

[slice bh compliment]

Props to Grigor/Grisha Dimitrov of Bulgaria. Won junior Wimbledon '08. Sweet one-hander. Looks like Roger is a major influence for him. Wishing him well in 2009.

Happy New year, gang.

 

[oneleggedcardinal]

I'd like to join, sir.

 

[shell]

BH return of serve question or two...

What grip do you have as you are in ready position?
What percent of BH returns do you slice vs. drive through?

I'm really wanting to work on this for 2009. I slice about 99.5% of my BH returns. I don't know if it is grip change issue (I use extreme eastern forehand and that is what I stand ready to return with) or footwork issue or strength issue, but I am determined to get over the ball some for the return.

 

[Storm_Kyori]

Nice I also use and EE FH. I lean a little towards my fh grip, not full death grip, but my hands is in that direction. I have my left hand just holding my racket to get ready for the serve. I say my return is 30% drive, 50% slice, 20% lob. I play alot of dubs so that why lob is in there. I have slowly been working towards my drive return. I just put in my mind, if this serve is not a screamer I pick my spot and commit to a full swing. Lately since playing with MSV Focus Hex 17L, I've not only been more confident on my returns, but also i've had more success with those topspin drives. I don't nkow if it's ll in my head, but that soft feel compared to pht 1.25 what I used before, gives me great spin and nice pop.

 

[RoddickAce]

Nice I also use and EE FH. I lean a little towards my fh grip, not full death grip, but my hands is in that direction. I have my left hand just holding my racket to get ready for the serve. I say my return is 30% drive, 50% slice, 20% lob. I play alot of dubs so that why lob is in there. I have slowly been working towards my drive return. I just put in my mind, if this serve is not a screamer I pick my spot and commit to a full swing. Lately since playing with MSV Focus Hex 17L, I've not only been more confident on my returns, but also i've had more success with those topspin drives. I don't nkow if it's ll in my head, but that soft feel compared to pht 1.25 what I used before, gives me great spin and nice pop.

One quick question about doubles; usually, when you get a medium paced, medium spun first or second serve hit to your backhand on the deuce court, what is the most beneficial area to place it, and with what spin and trajectory? I only play recreational doubles, so I don't want to drill the other guy at net. So what is next best alternative that is high percentage?

 

[drakulie]

Here you go guys:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoSvArxJ96U


I got a new toy, so have been shooting some vids. Not the best production, but I'm learning how to use the camera.

Enjoy, and happy new year.

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

Here you go guys:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoSvArxJ96U


I got a new toy, so have been shooting some vids. Not the best production, but I'm learning how to use the camera.

Enjoy, and happy new year.

Good stuff, Drak. I love the slow motion and freezes at the contact point to show the laid back wrist and how far out in front to take the ball. You seem to be hitting very flat in this video.

 

[S H O W S T O P P E R !]

Here you go guys:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoSvArxJ96U


I got a new toy, so have been shooting some vids. Not the best production, but I'm learning how to use the camera.

Enjoy, and happy new year.

Nice stuff Drak. btw, what shoes are you rocking in the vid?

 

[Alexio92]

Nice stuff Drak. btw, what shoes are you rocking in the vid?

Looks like the nike air oscillates

 

[drakulie]

Good stuff, Drak. I love the slow motion and freezes at the contact point to show the laid back wrist and how far out in front to take the ball. You seem to be hitting very flat in this video.

Thanks. This was my first attempt using the new camera. It shoots 60 photos per second. These are photos of some backhands, made into a film. Anyway, I'm still learning how to fix the shutter speed, ISO, Aperture, etc. Camera is a very cool training tool. Jollyroger, and Hyogen also have the same camera (they have the fh-20).

As for the shots,,,,,YES, I hit fairly flat, but they do have lots of spin. These shots in particular I was driving thru more. Glad you enjoyed the vid.

The camera also takes video at 300, 600, or 1200 frames per second. Very, VERY Cool stuff. I did take some vid, but because I didn't have the settings correct, the vid looks a bit distorted. I'll try and upload one for kicks.

Nice stuff Drak. btw, what shoes are you rocking in the vid?

Nike Air Oscillates, as someone mentioned. My Wilson shoes were soaked, so busted these out today.

 

[shell]

Drak, very nice vids, and nice backhands! But....get off that fence! You are going to mess with that pretty backswind

I'm thinking about that camera. Going to take a look tomorrow. Thanks for all the info. Please stand by for questions :twisted:

 

[Topaz]

Very cool video, Drak!

 

[ronalditop]

Here you go guys:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoSvArxJ96U


I got a new toy, so have been shooting some vids. Not the best production, but I'm learning how to use the camera.

Enjoy, and happy new year.

is that a continental grip on your backhand?

 

[tacotanium]

looks more like semi-western to me. but i need to get out there and play again damnit.......but the snow

 

[drakulie]

Drak, very nice vids, and nice backhands! But....get off that fence! You are going to mess with that pretty backswind

I'm thinking about that camera. Going to take a look tomorrow. Thanks for all the info. Please stand by for questions :twisted:

Yeah, cool camera. Shoot me an email if you want more info. You may also want to contact, Hyogen>>> as he has been really helpful answering questions.

Very cool video, Drak!

Can't wait to get some of you.

is that a continental grip on your backhand?

I hit with an eastern on both sides.

 

[drakulie]

Here is a video shot at 600 frames per second with some music. !!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMiWDj6pEOg

 

[Topaz]

Can't wait to get some of you.
.

I want lots of sound effects as I hit the ball! I also hear your neighbor is handy with photoshop...that'll be good!

 

[The_Steak]

Count me in.

Still need a work on positioning/footwork so I don't hit those accursed open stance back hands.

 

[gocard]

Here is a video shot at 600 frames per second with some music. !!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMiWDj6pEOg

Great vids of your backhands, thanks! Why are you facing the wrong way on the court though?

I'd like to join this community too, I use a OHBH. Switched 2.5 years ago b/c it looked so fluid (and b/c of Henin and Federer ) I like the one-hander because it's so versatile but my footwork and preparation still need to improve. I'm good with slower balls but the fast ones that come close to me are what kill me right now.

 

[drakulie]

^^"Facing the wrong way"""???? What are you talking about???

j/k >> I was warming up off a backboard.

 

[Sentinel]

Drak, The vid titled "backhands for djokovicfan" had some really sweet ones!

The 600fps one -- you really keep your eyes on the ball like Feddie does! A pleasure seeing those vids.

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

Drak, The vid titled "backhands for djokovicfan" had some really sweet ones!

The 600fps one -- you really keep your eyes on the ball like Feddie does! A pleasure seeing those vids.

Did you catch the forehand in there? His backhand is very good, but his forehand looks like an even better stroke! Tons of power there.

 

[Sentinel]

Did you catch the forehand in there? His backhand is very good, but his forehand looks like an even better stroke! Tons of power there.

haha, i don't notice forehands when there's a bh on display !

the bag-check klatu was quite funny. were you the guy interviewing, Drak ?

 

[nalbyvsfed]

addme: just began one handed

i'd like to join the one handed backhand community, i'm playing for 6 months now and my strokes are good but i always felt that my backhand( 2h) was not natural. the one handed backhand is a more natural stroke for me.

i have one question, are the instructions from FYB good for a beginning one hander?

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

i'd like to join the one handed backhand community, i'm playing for 6 months now and my strokes are good but i always felt that my backhand( 2h) was not natural. the one handed backhand is a more natural stroke for me.

i have one question, are the instructions from FYB good for a beginning one hander?

Yes, FYB is very good for players of all levels. The only thing I would disregard in Will's instruction on the one hander is the "adding loop" stage in the progressions section of his website. You're much better off keeping your take back simple and compact. Don't ruin your backhand like many players do by over-complicating your back swing.

Welcome to our group!

 

[nalbyvsfed]

what is the function of the loop? could anyone tell me that?

 

[The_Steak]

Power as well as spin.

 

[nalbyvsfed]

Power as well as spin.

ok thanks for that.

 

[edberg505]

http://blip.tv/file/171650

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g0CpIy2QbE&feature=channel_page

This is my backhand. There are many like it but this one is mine. My backhand is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my backhand is useless. Without my backhand I am useless. I must hit my backhand true. I must hit it better than my opponent, who is trying to beat me. I must hit mines before he attacks me. I will.

 

[nalbyvsfed]

http://blip.tv/file/171650

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g0CpIy2QbE&feature=channel_page

This is my backhand. There are many like it but this one is mine. My backhand is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my backhand is useless. Without my backhand I am useless. I must hit my backhand true. I must hit it better than my opponent, who is trying to beat me. I must hit mines before he attacks me. I will.

i like that backhand .

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

Power as well as spin.

I've gonna have to disagree with you here. For 99% of the tennis population a simple smile pattern will be much easier to generate power and spin. Sure, in theory the loop uses gravity to the player's advantage, which should result in more racquet head speed, translating into power and spin. But this is all moot if the player can't time the ball to save their life. A couple days ago I shortened up my backswing and it was a real lightbulb moment for me. My backhand was instantly a much cleaner stroke.

Do this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTyyITw-fyo

Not this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsdv5-eC3PY

 

[Storm_Kyori]

This is my backhand. There are many like it but this one is mine. My backhand is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my backhand is useless. Without my backhand I am useless. I must hit my backhand true. I must hit it better than my opponent, who is trying to beat me. I must hit mines before he attacks me. I will.

Lol, nice reminds me of Full Metal Jacket. Nice stroke, at first I thought you had a really compact stroke, I think because the first two shots of your vids looked like you stopped infront of your body, but as I kept watching, I saw the whole stroke movement. I haven't had a chance to get any vids of me. I'm sure I will get some within this month, hopefully by the end of Jan. I will have some. I'm going to play mixed doubles so I will have someone from the team fill me during matches and/or practice.

 

[nalbyvsfed]

i've got a problem with my backhand, each time i hit the ball, the ball seems to go very high with no topspin at all. you could compare it with a backhand lob.

how can i fix this?

 

[Ballinbob]

i've got a problem with my backhand, each time i hit the ball, the ball seems to go very high with no topspin at all. you could compare it with a backhand lob.

how can i fix this?

hit through it more. Pretend your hitting through 4 balls at once.

 

[The_Steak]

Look at drakulie's vids. That is a great example of a 1hbh.

Djok, different things work for different people. I was experimenting with different take backs, although the loop was a difficult at first, after I timed it down it actually helped for the power piece of it. But, yes you are correct, the loop is much harder to hit a good solid back hand so if anyone has great timing, you might want to do this,

 

[Storm_Kyori]

i've got a problem with my backhand, each time i hit the ball, the ball seems to go very high with no topspin at all. you could compare it with a backhand lob.

how can i fix this?

you could be leaning back on your strokes which may cause that. I did that yesterday, but my shots were more like bullets rather than lobs

 

[RoddickAce]

http://www.vimeo.com/2718885

Djokovicfan4life, I took some samples of my backhand from my videos and looked over them and I think I know how to solve my "wet-noodle-itis" problem! I think I'm releasing my non-hitting arm's hand from the racquet too soon. If anyone can give me some other advice on improving my backhand, please let me know, thanks.
I'm working on my forehand lately, so I usually run around my backhand these days, so I don't have vid of a ton of backhands; but if you guys need more vids of my backhand to analyze and find more errors, I'd be more than willing to edit them out.

And at nalbyvsfed, I put in a flat backhand lob kind of shot in my video. If you're hitting it too high, I think you're hitting like my second backhand. What you want to hit like, as other posters have mentioned, is like Drak, where he brushes up the back of the ball and drives up over and through it.

 

[Sentinel]

http://blip.tv/file/171650

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g0CpIy2QbE&feature=channel_page

This is my backhand. There are many like it but this one is mine. My backhand is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my backhand is useless. Without my backhand I am useless. I must hit my backhand true. I must hit it better than my opponent, who is trying to beat me. I must hit mines before he attacks me. I will.

Touched my <3 !!! Spoken like a true 1h'er.

 

[nalbyvsfed]

thank you all, i will try it tomarrow.

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

Look at drakulie's vids. That is a great example of a 1hbh.

Djok, different things work for different people. I was experimenting with different take backs, although the loop was a difficult at first, after I timed it down it actually helped for the power piece of it. But, yes you are correct, the loop is much harder to hit a good solid back hand so if anyone has great timing, you might want to do this,

Yes, of course every one is different, but there are certain things in tennis that are counter productive to 99% of the tennis playing population, such as the loopy take back for the one hander. If you really are in that other 1%, then congrats to you. But for most players simple is best for the one handed backhand. Let's face it, none of us are going to be hitting the ball as hard as Federer of Gasquet, so the tiny bit of extra power that you'd get from making a loop is really moot anyway. Power comes from clean contact and good timing, not a huge backswing.

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

http://blip.tv/file/171650

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g0CpIy2QbE&feature=channel_page

This is my backhand. There are many like it but this one is mine. My backhand is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my backhand is useless. Without my backhand I am useless. I must hit my backhand true. I must hit it better than my opponent, who is trying to beat me. I must hit mines before he attacks me. I will.

That's a very solid backhand you've got there, but why such a low contact point? Do you always take the ball at knee height like that?

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

i've got a problem with my backhand, each time i hit the ball, the ball seems to go very high with no topspin at all. you could compare it with a backhand lob.

how can i fix this?

What grip are you using at the moment? If you're using a continental then you may be opening the racquet face too much at contact. Try an eastern backhand grip, with your top knuckle resting on the first bevel of the racquet (the top one, facing the sky, if you're unfamiliar with the bevel numbers).

You need to use your legs to drop your racquet under the ball before beginning your forward swing by bending your knees. If you stand straight legged and just start swinging for the fences then you will golf the ball and hit long a lot like you are right now.

 

[nalbyvsfed]

What grip are you using at the moment? If you're using a continental then you may be opening the racquet face too much at contact. Try an eastern backhand grip, with your top knuckle resting on the first bevel of the racquet (the top one, facing the sky, if you're unfamiliar with the bevel numbers).

You need to use your legs to drop your racquet under the ball before beginning your forward swing by bending your knees. If you stand straight legged and just start swinging for the fences then you will golf the ball and hit long a lot like you are right now.

Yea i do use a eastern backhand grip. and i'm hitting balls on the rise. but i never knew you should bend your knees to get the racket under the ball. thank you...

 

[coonio]

Any room on this list for another long-time 1HBH'er? Played for 20+ years all with one hander (topspin improving, slice still more consistent) and will never change.

Quick technique question: On fast serves I've had some success recently hitting topspin with open stance backhands, is this kosher or is it considered bad technique? Just curious cuz sometimes no time to step into ball on a hard serve.

 

[Djokovicfan4life]

Any room on this list for another long-time 1HBH'er? Played for 20+ years all with one hander (topspin improving, slice still more consistent) and will never change.

Quick technique question: On fast serves I've had some success recently hitting topspin with open stance backhands, is this kosher or is it considered bad technique? Just curious cuz sometimes no time to step into ball on a hard serve.

Honestly I have no idea whether this is considered OK or not. If I had to guess I'd say that this is acceptable on hard serve returns, since the power will come from making clean contact and using the power of the serve. Remember to shorten your back swing for returns of serve.