The backhand smash is one of the most difficult shots in the book. That’s because it’s hard to generate power high on the backhand side. Strength is also an issue which makes it extremely tough for girls.

Because you get so few backhand smashes in matches, it’s a shot that isn’t practised a great deal and tends to be overlooked by coaches who would prefer their players did not hit the backhand smash at all. That’s because the rule of thumb is that if there’s time to move your feet around the ball and play the more forceful forehand smash instead, then you should do so. Club players are more likely to play the backhand smash as they don’t always have the same nimble footwork as their professional counterparts.

Although the backhand smash is not a regular shot, it can nonetheless be crucially important if one comes along at 6-5 in the tiebreak! It’s also a fun shot to try and very satisfying when you get it right – making it something of a crowd pleaser. Let’s take a look at what’s involved:

React quickly If it is a really good job over the backhand side you have to react quickly or it’s gone! In this situation, you’re not going to be moving back very far. One large ‘power step’ backwards will probably suffice (see pic A). If you find yourself with more time, use lots of little cross-over steps to get you back. If you’ve got time to get round the ball and play it on the more powerful forehand smash, then do so.

Turn your back As you prepare for the shot you need to turn side-on with your back almost to the net. Ensure that your elbow is at least as high as the racket, creating a right angle with your arm. See pic B

Use your legs You are going to need some power off the ground which means pushing off the left leg (for a right – hander), and most likely landing on the left leg as well. You’ll find the right foot might touch the ground, but all the weights should be on the left.

Work your forearm and wrist On the serve and forehand smash, you pronate the forearm and wrist so that they turn outwards. On the backhand smash you supinate, which means the forearm and wrist turn inwards. Be careful, as it is an unorthodox movement. You’ll find you won’t have as much range of movement and it can put strain on your muscles. Remember, this shot is hit with a chopper/service grip. Don’t attempt it with a forehand grip or you’ll be sure to injure yourself.

Reach up and pull your arm back As you hit, extend your arm to its maximum reach as for the forehand smash. Draw your left arm back using it as a counter – balance to give your shot a bit more oomph. See pic C

Slap it The actual hit is almost like a backhand slap, i.e. it’s a bit like you are giving someone a slap with the back of your hand.

Keep your eyes and chin up It’s important to keep your eyes and chin up and to watch the ball. A common error that people make is to look away too soon or to look to see where the ball has gone, by which time they’ve missed it. Try to see the ball hit the strings.

Keep the follow through short You are not going to follow-through very far. The racket finishes almost in line with your shoulder. But a lot will depend on where you’ve directed the shot. See pic D

Settle for placement rather than power If your name is Pat Rafter the likelihood is that you can make a winner out of this shot. The great athletes can put this shot away because they have the strength to slap the ball down. People without the athletic ability and strength may have to settle for placement over power – ideally down the line so that you don’t open up the court. If you hit it cross-court without a lot of power, you are dead!

Remember, just because you are placing the shot, it isn’t an excuse for pushing it. You still need to hit it. Commitment to the shot is key.

Article and Images is Courtesy of ACE MAGAZINE. You can download full pdf here

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