The last two weeks we discussed the backhand slice and the backhand drive. This week we focus on when to use each one.
When to use a Slice Backhand
In general, use the slice backhand if the ball is out of the "strike zone", that is, if the ball is higher than your chest or lower than your knee. Examples of when to use:
high balls..ie kick serves to your backhand
when approaching the net (more on this shot next week)
when returning a ball that is short and/or low (this helps you get the ball up over the net)
to hit a defensive lob
When to use a Drive/Topspin Backhand
It is best to hit the backhand drive when the ball is in the strike zone (between your knee and your chest). Examples of situations to use the drive:
as a passing shot (topspin helps make the ball dip after crossing the net, making your opponent volley up)
to keep the ball deep in the court during a ground stroke rally (once again, the topspin helps bring the ball down making offense difficult for your opponent)
to hit an offensive topspin lob (this one takes lots of practice)
