Create a Backhand You Can Count On
From dinks to drives, learn to regulate the court with a reliable and repeatable pickleball backhand.
What Constitutes the Backhand Shot in Pickleball?
A pickleball shot on your non-dominant side
The pickleball backhand is a stroke that’s hit on the opposite side from your dominant hand. For right-handed players, the backhand is hit on the left side. For lefties, it’s on the right side. Most players perceive the backhand as the more difficult of the two basic shots to hit, forehand being the other. It’s more difficult because it’s the more inconsistent shot when we were learning the game. We tend to avoid hitting the backhand when we think we have the opportunity to hit a forehand instead.
How to Execute a Correct Backhand
The basics of a clear, controlled stroke
Do these steps to get a correct backhand:
- Begin in ready position. Paddle up, knees bent, square to the net.
- Rotate your shoulders. Turn your torso so your paddle shoulder points toward the ball.
- Step across with lead foot. Step with your non-dominant foot to create space.
- Swing low to high. Keep the paddle face slightly open and drive the paddle forward across your body.
- Follow through. Your paddle should finish near your opposite shoulder, and your weight should move forward.
Common Mistake
Standing Too Upright
When you stand too straight, it puts a limit on the quality of the shot and the ability to get around the court.When your center of gravity isn’t low, you have reduced balance and swing efficiency. Bend your knees and lower your center of gravity to create a base that is stable and athletic.
Reaching Across the Body
Causes awkward contact and leads to poor shots.Many players reach across instead of turning their bodies, causing mishits. Rotate your shoulders and hips toward the ball, then step across to align your body with the shot.
Weak Follow-Through
Incomplete motion = poor control and power.Stopping your swing short reduces both distance and accuracy. Let your paddle follow through naturally in the direction you want the ball to go. Don’t “poke” at the ball, swing through it.
One-Handed vs. Two-Handed Backhand
Choose what fits your style and strength
- One-handed backhand: Offers more reach and flexibility at the net. Great for dinks and quick exchanges.
- Two-handed backhand: Adds power and stability, especially useful for drives and returns.
Try both styles to see what feels more natural based on your paddle control, wrist strength, and positioning.
Adjusting for Different Types of Backhands
Dinks, drives, and drops each need small tweaks
- Backhand Dink: Use soft touch, open paddle face, and minimal motion near the net.
- Backhand Drive: Requires a compact yet powerful swing with strong follow-through.
- Backhand Drop: Focus on control and angle; aim for a gentle arc into the opponent’s kitchen.
Each shot shares the same foundation. Good footwork, proper paddle angle, and balanced execution.
Drills to Improve Your Backhand
Confidence and consistency are built by repetition
- Backhand Wall Reps: Hitting backhands against a wall ensures the timing and form are just right.
- Dinking Across the Court: With a partner at the kitchen line, practice your soft-touch backhand. This is a shot you should expect to make, even in competitive situations. You should be able to execute it with ease.
- Feed and Fire: Have a partner feed rapid-fire balls to your backhand side.
- Two-Ball Drill: Switch between forehand and backhand to cultivate adaptability and footwork.
