The One-Handed Backhand: Balance Checkpoints

Let's examine the basic progression for a classic one-handed backhand. In previous articles we've talked about the general principles of balance on the groundstrokes. (Click Here) We've also presented the balance checkpoints for the forehand (Click Here) and the two-handed backhand.(Click Here). Now let's do the same for the one-handed backhand. These checkpoints give you the basic building blocks for learning the one-handed backhand within my system. A special thanks to my old student Joe Brandi, fine player and great coach, for demonstrating them for us, just as he learned them so long ago in Puerto Rico where I taught for most of my career. The progression below is for developing a classical one-handed backhand with an eastern backhand grip. This is the grip John Yandell identifies as a 2 /1 grip. It's a mild, natural topspin drive. If we look at the top players in the world, we can see them using the same elements presented here in these teaching progressions. This includes players like James Blake and Roger Federer. You will also see many of the same elements in the extreme grip players. Mastering this progression lays a foundation for developing a world class backhand whether you stay...