Why You Should Start Using a Two-Handed Backhand in Pickleball

 

When and Why to Switch to a Two-Handed Backhand in Pickleball

As a beginner pickleball player, you may start out using only a one-handed backhand. However, there are certain scenarios in matches where relying solely on a one-hander can get you into trouble. By learning to utilize a two-handed backhand in key situations, you can improve your stability, power, and ability to counter attack. This guide will overview two common scenarios where transitioning from a one-hander to a two-hander can help you avoid losing points repeatedly.

1. Defending Against Down the Line Speed Ups (00:29) As the right-handed player on the left side of the court, a common weakness is getting beat repeatedly when the opponent speeds the ball down your backhand line. When stretched out wide, beginners typically can only block the ball back defensively with a one-handed swing. However, by placing your left hand on the paddle handle for support, you gain added stability and can swing with more controlled power. This allows you to counterattack down the line speed ups instead of popping the ball up or yielding a weak reply. Maintaining better positioning closer to the middle can reduce how often you need the two-hander, but for balls hit far out wide, switching to a second hand is recommended.
   
   
2. Handling Cross Court Speed Ups (02:44) Another scenario where a two-handed backhand helps is returning cross court speed ups. As the righty on the right side, when your opponent hits a slower “dead” dink, they often speed the next ball back cross court to your backhand. From a weak one-handed position, beginners tend to miss into the net or pop these up. But by preparing with your left hand already on the paddle, you have the stability and strength to drive counterattack shots cross court. Keeping your swing short and compact, rather than an exaggerated take back, allows you to better control the direction and depth of your two-handed backhand reply.
   
   

Summary (06:12) While more advanced players utilize two-handed backhands in additional situations, these two scenarios are where beginners tend to repeatedly get burned. By adopting a second hand for stability and power on balls hit to your wide backhand and on cross-court counters, you'll likely see rapid improvements. Over time, continue observing when pros transition between one and two-handed shots to expand when you implement this technique. With practice, your backhand will become a dangerous weapon for launching attacks.

0:00 Introduction 0:29 Defend Line Speed Up 2:44 Defend Cross-Court Speed Up 6:12 Summary

When and Why to Switch to a Two-Handed Backhand in Pickleball - Quiz

1. What shot tends to give beginner players using a one-handed backhand trouble when playing the left side? a. Down the line speed ups b. Cross court dinks c. Lobs d. Third shot drops 2. When stretched out wide to the backhand, what issue makes it hard to counterattack with a one-hander? a. Lack of power b. Poor positioning c. No stability d. All of the above 3. How does adding your second hand on the paddle help when countering down the line speed ups? a. Provides more power b. Allows better control of aim c. Adds stability d. Makes your wrist stronger 4. Why do players often speed the ball cross court instead of down the line to a righty's backhand? a. The triangle effect b. It's an easier shot c. Less expectation to return down the line d. All of the above 5. What term refers to a slower dink that gives your opponent time to get aggressive? a. Dead dink b. Attacking dink c. Third shot dink d. Drop shot 6. What preparation should you make when expecting a cross court reply after hitting a dead dink? a. Take a big backswing b. Open your stance c. Get into a compact ready position d. None of the above 7. What benefit does a two-hander provide on cross court speed ups? a. Ability to hit downwards b. Added power c. Easier to aim directionally d. All of the above 8. Beginners should use a two-handed backhand _______. a. Only in key situations b. For every shot c. Primarily for dinking d. Only on the forehand side 9. As you advance, when should you consider expanding your two-hander use? a. In all dinking rallies b. On quick exchanges at the kitchen line c. When pros switch grips in similar scenarios d. Only backhands down the line 10. What will likely happen as you practice two-handed backhands more? a. Your forehand will improve b. You'll get burned less often c. It will become a dangerous weapon d. Your wrist strength will increase Answer Key: 1. A 2. D 3. C 4. D 5. A 6. C 7. D 8. A 9. C 10. C