Tennis Tips: Picking the Best Backhand for You

In the early days, there was no choice. Using a one handed backhand was the only option available to a tennis player. Then around the 1950s the two handed backhand emerged. It was still a novelty; however, the two handed stroke's appeal caused it to become extremely popular. Also, the use of the stroke by high profile players like Bjorn Borg and Jimmy Connors made the stroke much more appealing. Now, the two handed stroke is the norm in the tennis world, while users of the one-handed stroke are a limited few.

Players in the modern day now have to make a choice as to what backhand stroke they will use. The question is, which stroke is best for you to use? The debate is long and arduous about which variety is the best, but there are ways to determine which stroke would be more suitable for you. It is a matter of realizing how you play, and how you can use the advantages of each particular stroke.

The two-handed backhand is definitely an easier stroke to handle. Which two hands, it has the bonus of extra strength to hit through the shot. If you notice pros like Andre Agassi, they are able to drive the ball through the court with their backhands in a way that a one-hander may not be able to as easily. Also, a two-handed backhand gives you a more steady return of serve.

The disadvantages that you would find with a two-handed backhand start with movement. Since you are using two-hands, your reach is limited. You have to possess excellent footwork in order to use the stroke to its full potential. Along with movement, users of the two-handed backhand aren't well known for their proficiency at net. Because they are acclimated to using both hands on their backhand side, using only one hand for the volley or slice isn't as comfortable for them.