Download our FREE backhand guides here: One-handed guide - www.top-tennis-training.com/one-handed-backhand-guide Two-handed guide - www.top-tennis-training.com/two-handed-backhand-guide Video timeline: 00:32 - The best two-handers of all time 00:50 - The best one-handers of all time 01:28 - The major advantage of the two-hander 04:10 - Which hand dominates on two hands 05:45 - Chest muscles vs back muscles 06:45 - How to feel stable on the one-hander 07:14 - Differences in the stances and recovery 08:48 - Why it takes longer for one-handers to master their stroke 09:25 - The major advantages of the one-hander7 11:00 - Recap
I feel like adding a few more points : 1) One-handed, if well mastered, has a clearly visible edge in terms of power and ball weight (aggressive topspin) . On average, it's more likely to extract an imperfect/weak/short return out of the opponent just thanks to its power and its heavier topspin, while two handers are more at risk of giving the opponent a nice ball to hit, right at hip height, if they don't hit deep enough. Sure, two handers can still reach similar top speeds in winners as one handers, but at cost of even greater risks (partly because they hit flatter). 2) Two handers is more easy and natural to master when facing balls at heights between waist and shoulders/head level, but it becomes really difficult and weird if the upcoming ball bounces even higher than that, more so than the one hander. 3) With a two hander, a more advanced position on court is more intuitive to master, and taking the ball on the rise can feel more natural, but this doesn't mean you can't achieve the same thing with one handed backhand... it just takes more time to master. Federer could tell us something about this. 4) Two handed is quicker to set up in some situations, and one of these situations is when returning big serves. I think this is the area where 2handers have the most visible edge... a pretty important area for sure. Not so many players are able to really take advantage of this though, because they often tend to try using 2 hands even on extremely difficult balls, producing a certain number of weak, floating returns, while onehanders seem to be more natural in switching to blocked returns, which can be not so easy to punish. At the end of it all, I believe that both shots, if played well, are very suited for modern tennis... I just think that the one hander is largely underrated, and it tends to be taken into consideration far too rarely, especially in female tennis. I really think that a few more players today should stick to the one hander. At the moment, at low/junior levels you can find a rate of maybe 10 twohanders vs just 1 onehander, and seeing so many very average and very stiff 2handers, Roddick or Tsonga style, I think that many of these young players were convinced to play 2handers despite having no real feeling and sensibility for that shot. I think that while choosing the best backhand for every person, tennis trainers should really seriously take in consideration the single handed option, even for girls, and they should choose using better and more solid motivation than "2handed backhand is quicker to learn"
Very good points there One thing I would add, many girls growing up struggle to generate or control a one-hander so use two hands. They then grow up with that and changing to a one-hander later is very hard and most won't see the benefit of doing so. That's a big reason why there are so few one-handers on the WTA tour All the best Simon
Correct! I've been coaching over 40 years of tennis. I was a D1 coach, and not one single girl on my team ever had a one-handed backhand. The thing is, almost 95% of all coaches teach two hands on the backhand. The fact of the matter is, if you look in the history books. The number one position has always been dominated by one-handed player, both male and female. Now that they have gone to a stiffer racquet, it's become easier for two hands to generate power, therefore allowing the two-handers to generate the extra power needed to keep their opponent deep. Still, I teach almost exclusively a one-handed backhand to the above average athletes. Once the player understands how to hit it correctly they never go back to two hands. Just look at Justine Henin. She played Serena Williams 14 times and won 6 times. Steffi Graf had 22 grand slams to Serena's 23, but it took Serena much longer time to get that 23th Grand Slam. If they kept all players in the wood racket, I doubt Serena Williams would have ever beat Justine or Steffi. The modern racket has changed the game tremendously, and not for the better. Now the game has become a slugfest. The creativity has been lost. Margaret Court add 24 grand slams 19 grand slams in doubles, 21 grandslam in mixed doubles. So who's the GOAT? A one-handed player no doubt in my mind.
Same. After mastering two hander with at least several 100s of hours of practice, I feel so confident and powerful on backhand side which wasn't the case with one hander. I think Stan and gasquet are probably one of the few players who are feared on backhand. Tsitsipas has a stable single hander but nothing out of the ordinary. Thiem has a huge and impractical swing - seen at RG or nitto finals. Shapo has a soothing backhand to watch and best jump shot. However all the new guys need is a lot more consistency to call it a weapon. Djokovic and nalbandian all the way for double handers.
I can hit a good fast 1 handed backhand after coming back to tennis. Never learnt it when i was younger though. I dont know where my 2 hander is going though
As far as I know, this is the only vid I could find where the pro explains the percent allocation of the top hand versus the bottom hand on the two hander. Its info i've been looking for forever, and he nails it.
Good vid - I've taught for over 30 years and use a single bh. Some additional pros with a single bh is an advanced player can hit with WAY more topspin than a double bh - most double bh players push through a ball and put more of a side spin on (which can be very effective, because it's hard to read for the opponent as to where the ball's path may go, and the ball stays low and at high speeds). Beyond a normal topspin shot, there is an advanced hyper snap of topspin for both fh and bh, but its technique and timing have to be perfect - when done properly, a huge topspin is generated as well as a giant aggressive kick (on opponents' side). The cons though are they are risky shots because the racket head passes through the ball's path so quickly that balls can be shanked off the frame. Also, hyper spins will rip the fuzz right off the ball quickly, so you go through balls fast - and, it's hard on strings - even the best strings break much sooner, so you'll need several rackets just for practices/ workouts let alone matches. But when done properly and in the right situations, these hyper snap topspins really add a nice dynamic to the game.
I was taught semi-western grips on both wings and I’m just now realizing how uncommon that is for a two handed backhand. I’ve never had issues with it though even on low balls. I believe it’s why I was able to use my backhand as a weapon all this time. Then I use continental for slices, serves and volleys.
Well, as a one handed backhander myself, I definitely like more that one. I think Stan have the most powerful bh at this time, even when you compare it with the two handers. Actually, Gasquet and Wawrinka ohb are the greatest in history in terms of winner points and consistency. I love Nalbandian's thb and I think is the best from thb. But what we like is not the most important thing in tennis but what is most suitable for us. So imho I say that two handed backhand is more prone to back injuries, especially if you're past your prime. Even if you don't have back problems, aging will definitely reduce your back movement and you'll finish trying to hit a backhand without being able to rotate your core. So I think for a player in his mid life or older, one hand backhand will be more safe in terms of avoiding injuries and also easier to hit.
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial True about the back injuries, but OHB is also more likely to generate tennis elbow. Especially in older players who try to hit hard...
@@jdmresearch ohb can be risky for tennis elbow if someone hits with wrong technique. In particular, I think that playing it with bent arm and without the right muscle relaxation can make one very prone to injures. But if you hit with good technique and relaxed arm, I don't see any particular risk in it.
I actually feel more prone to tennis elbow with my 2HBH. When my non-dominant arm extends over and over I can feel the soreness after long hitting sessions. I do not have the same issue with pain on the 1HBH. That said, I’m no expert and may just have poor technique causing the pain on my 2HBH. Either way, pros and cons to both and it’s a never ending dilemma!
There are a couple more point on the One hander vs two hander ; I completely agree that the two hander has more stability and is more repeatable, but the one hander is more versatile and less ' readable' for your opponent. Tennis has been evolving more towards fitter players, longer rally's and so on, it makes sense for the two hander to be popular. But the reason why the one hander is advantageous is the fact that you can hit a cross or DTL from exactly the same position and create more angles- which is overall tougher for the opponent
The one-hander is for sure a more relaxed shot and the angles you can hit are great if you have solid technique, however, I feel like if you set up properly for a two-hander, you can disguise your shot just as well as any one-hander. The stance and body position tends to give away your intentions, if you mainly use a neutral stance and keep the technique the same, how would an opponent read your shot? Unless you have set patterns and they start to read those
Yes, the One-hander is more difficult to master for young players. But.... Thiem, Federer, and Tsitsipas weren’t in the semifinals of the year end championships IN SPITE of their onehanded backhands. It is a more varied and - if done right - a more powerful shot.
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons both are great. My answer probably is due to the bias I have and Federer’s image, aura etc. I watch this match very frequently - fedex v stan Australian open 2017 where both use single hand, I must say that match is a treat to watch. Always love fedex v Stan matches.
Despite the weaker muscles used in the one hander, I think the stroke allows for greater racquet head speed due to addition range and freedom. So it’s not necessarily weaker. Definitely less reliable and stable though!
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons thanks for being the best tennis channel! I would love to see you make another movement/agility video. For such a key factor of the game, there’s surprisingly few videos for movement/agility!
Always felt why people play two-handed backhand. Somehow, felt it inhibits the arm movement. I really feel stuck with two handed backhand. Single hand bh is easier and the follow thru is much easier.
@@jchangesqlawcenter same for me too. I've a one handed which has always been better and way more natural than my forehand, and every time I tried the 2 hander I always felt extremely stiff and constrained. It really can't work for me, and I think it would've been catastrophic if a tennis trainer would've convinced me to stick to the 2hander despite that. Then, one day I started playing lefty for 3/4 months, because I had to recover from tennis elbow and I didn't want to totally stop playing. I'm partially ambidextrous, so it was not extremely difficult for me, at least to be able to have fun hitting with friends. I tried both styles, and was very surprised in feeling the exact opposite... Lefty 2 hander was extremely easy and natural for me, while I found lefty one hander extremely difficult. So, now I think it really depends a lot from personal disposition, which can vary even into the same person if you change dominant arm.
Been struggling with tennis elbow so I've been experimenting with a 2HBH when I hit topspin. Don't like the feeling of being restricted, but it definitely is more powerful when you hit it cleanly. Above all else I think it's the second hand that allows you to push out like an opposite side FH that gives you most of the power, but I don't pretend to be an expert on kinesiology. For me the key on the 2HBH is to keep the hands loose and relaxed and really make sure the racquet head is pointing down as you come through. At this point I hit mainly slice on my backhand though, typical old guy I guess LOL.
I don't really think that the 2 hander is more powerful, I tend to think the opposite is true on average... of course, this is when you take into consideration well developed shots. Perhaps you feel more power with 2 hands just because you don't have to use at 100% an arm which is affected by tennis elbow.
Simon, single handed Backhand players are morally, spiritually, genetically superior to double handed players..and cutting edge research shows ; descended from the people of Atlantis... ( ps i have a single handed BH )
Great video. For two handed backhands, Hewitt had a good backhand for baseline work, and Djokovic has a good backhand defence wise. Djokovic also has a good drop shot for a 2 handed backhand. Federer has that amazing slice while Wawrinka and Gasquet have a consistent and powerful backhand for 1 handed backhands.
The stats show that during last couple decades there have been about 20% 1HBH players on average among top-100 on ATP side and less than 3% on the WTA. Put this against less than 4% male junior 10-12 year-olds playing one hand, and less than 1% girls of that age. So, percentage-wise, the odds to make it to the top are somewhat better for those few youngsters who start with 1HBH early on. I would say 1HBH is a tougher shot to master to a decent level than 2HBH. In most cases, those trying to play one-hander are stuck with a huge hole on their backhand side. On the other hand, when developed to perfection, it becomes more powerful weapon than 2-hander. Alas, that happens only at the very top of the game.
very competent points. As a one hander I would say hitting the shot shoulder high is especially difficult comparing to a two hander, making this a vulnerable spot. That being said there is something to be said on injury risk on left hand elbow for two handers. There is a lot of pressure on spin shots on that left elbow for two handed backhands whereas for one handers is a more natural flow
Good video. I teach two handed for top spin and the one handed for slices. IMO Martina Hingis had the most complete game in tennis. As you explained the two handed back hand is best for top spin and power, but people with a two handed backhand seldom are good at net. In my experience developing your one handed backhand slice helps develop your net game.
Best double hander: Djoker, Nalbandian, agassi. Fognini is good with wrists. Nadal has improved a lot and has a good running backhand. Medvedev is a good stable backhand with unique and weird swing. Stan and gasquet for single handers. Tsitsipas has a stable one hander. Thiem huge and impractical swing. Shapo best jumping however need was more consistency
Just hit a left handed forehand (if you're right handed) jezzz it's that simple ;) The ohb has two problems 1.) it is mechanically more complicated than the forehand and even more importantly 2.) you are hitting off the weak side of your body. By using two hands one is forced into using body rotation which is otherwise unnatural because one is hitting on the "off" or weak side of their body. I like to encourage people (who are accomplished players) to try a very simple experiment: if you are, for example righthanded, try hitting a left handed backhand for a while and really learn it. Almost immediately you will notice something odd. You feel much more dexterous and comfortable than you ever could have using your right hand. I experienced this myself as a right hander who as a teen ager injured my shoulder and had to learn to play left handed. I showed this to my mentor and he was blown away, amazed at how well he could play left handed. Had Nadal (a fellow switch hander) learned the one hander instead of the two hander, I am convinced he might well of had the greatest OHB in history. And of course semi-ambidexterity was the secret to Don Budge's backhand.
Training with your non-dominant hand has some massive benefits for sure, a very underused "cheat" Thank you for watching Are there any lessons you would like to see from us in 2020? All the best Simon
Tough call. Clearly there are more 2 handers in the pros right now. But some of the best of all time used 1 handers - Federer, Graf, Sampras, McEnroe, Navratilova, Henin,Laver, Becker, Edberg, etc. The 1 hander is probably harder to master but both can work.
A couple more points. If you do not have your feet in the optimum position for hitting a stroke, your two hander can still be hit with pace, not your one hander. This comes into play while returning serves. It also comes into play if you are destined to only be a high school varsity player. You do not have pro level footwork. A second and crucial point is your wrist is going in its weakest way with the one hand backhand. For example, you do not push furniture across your flat with the back of your hands. Your forehand is one hand also but the wrist is going its strongest way. This comes into play with racquet stability at contact and brushing the ball for topspin. A completely overlooked point is eye dominance. If you brain chooses to use one eye more because you have a weakness in on of your eyes then if it is the wrong eye your one hand backhand will be toast. For example if your right eye is weak on your right handed one hand backhand your strong eye, your left eye being used by your brain more is not even looking at the ball. You are more sideways on the one hander than the two hander and eye dominance comes more into play. If you are not at a tennis academy and blessed with a surplus of talent do not even try the one hand backhand.
I love Simon your thorough explanations. I am going to discuss some of your points with my coaches. A good video would be an analysis of Emma Raducanu's backhand return of serve which was so effective against Kirstea.
I’ve often found myself hitting my two handed with my non-dominant hand adding a lot of power to the swing. I can’t imagine a 1 hander for me ever being more powerful or consistent.
From a physics standpoint, it seems that a bigger player with longer arms could benefit more from a one-handed backhand as having the contact point being father from the body will create more effortless power. Also, high balls, the major weakness for a one-hander, are less of a problem when a player is already very tall.
I'd agree with that, sometimes the taller players lack a bit of strength though so they need to make sure they're physically up to the challenge, longer levers require more stability from the joints/muscles to help balance the stroke
This is the first time I'm going to make a constructive comment (I'm a huge fan of yours. From the first hour. I even shared comments with David N here in Argentina) Having said that, I could see you are not being neutral about the shots. You are "selling" the two backhanded shot, being yourself an expert at it. I used both shots, and now I'm back with the one hand, adapted to modern game. Still, there are pros and cons for both styles. I love the way you both explain everything, being this one an exception. Please do accept my apologies but I think you'll understand that it is with the intention of helping! My best and have a happy new year!!!
Thank you for the honest feedback, I filmed this video around 16 months ago and now looking back, I can see I did lean towards the two-hander which isn't fair for the one-handers out there. I'll try to make an updated version for 2020 when the weather gets better here in the UK All the best Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial Thanks for being straightforward! That's why I think you're the best! Whenever you decide that you could use some good weather you're welcome back to Argentina, I know you have good friends here! Thanks again and I'm looking forward to the new video in 2020! My best to you and Alex
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial It would be nice if Alex explains his point of view about this theme. Being a one hander, maybe he thinks a bit different. I love the 1hbh, for me it's the most beautiful shot in tennis.
@Miguel - Alex admits himself that his backhand has always been his weakness and he wishes he had switched to a two-hander when he was younger. There's only a few great one handers in the world, Wawrinka, Gasquet, Robredo, Federer etc
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial For me, I have no choice since I only know how to play a 1HBH. I think overall you’re right and 2HBH imo bails you out from needing perfect timing which is a must for 1 hander
It's a great shot when he's playing well and timing it right, however, a few of his matches I've watched this year, his backhand ends up getting attacked due to him not keeping good enough length or struggling to time it, especially on the clay
Don't know if someone mentioned it yet, but Gaudio had a tremendous one handed backhand. Not the best in history, but definitely worth mentioning. Of active players, I think Thiem has the best one now.
Need help: I've encountered a struggle but also a revelation. In experimenting with the 1 handed backhand, I've discovered the ability to really drive through the ball with power and spin consistently albeit not accurate yet. In doing so I've realized that THAT is what driving through is supposed to feel like, and the forehand that is supposed to feel that way feels more like brushing up, although occasionally I can drive through it and get the same feel as the strong 1hbh
Love the content Simon! You look so loose and fluid on your 2 hander, any chance you could do a video about how to keep the arms loose on the takeback? I see a lot of 2 handlers (including myself) get tight in the shoulders on the takeback and so their arms extend and they have a Roddick-like backhand: stiff looking. Helping there would be great, thank you and all the best!
I really like that you pointed out that wawrinka rotates his hips more than other one handers. after you pointed that out, I realize that thats why I like thiem's one hander the most out of all the next-gen one handers, because thiem also rotates his hips quite a bit. That's probably why he seems to be able to swing so hard despite not looking like he's all that muscular. I always kinda felt like the reason why a forehand was more powerful than a two handed backhand was because of reach, that I'm able to make contact further from the body and it gives extra leverage to really apply muscle. but then I also felt then that a one handed backhand should be more powerful because it has more reach than a two hander. Now that you pointed out the hip thing, I realize that's probably why most one handers seem so feeble, but wawrinka and thiem seem to be able to generate just as much raw power on the backhand side as their forehand. likely because they are combining the extra power from the full body rotation associated with two handers with the extra leverage from the reach a hand hander has. best of both worlds in terms of power, though of course the extra stability a two hand gives is missing.
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial i havnt seen every video by you guys, but ive been experimenting with swing volley's recently and wondering if there were any tips i should be looking out for. I often find myself creeping forward as I start to take control of a point only to be completely backed off by a soft defensive shot that lands deep. I started trying to take them in the air and using a swing volley in no mans land as an approach shot and finish at net. Mixed success so far. Feels difficult to pull off consistently but its very effective when I can execute on it. Basically the quality of the approach shot i hit varies quite a bit because i find a swing volley to be a very volatile shot for me currently. Wondering how i should handle the shot to more consistently be able to hit an approach shot when im making contact with the ball a step or two inside the baseline around waist height
Everyone has their opinion but I think Gasquet has the best one hander! It looks the best and is a weapon as opposed to just being a backhand. Wishing you all the best of luck!
Thanks for the information! I started playing a year ago and found two-handed hard, meanwhile one-handed backhand was comfortable so I only used the latter. I guess it's because I've been playing table tennis for like 20 years. I'm playing just for fun, but do you think I should learn both?
Do you think it's bad I use both in my matches? My two handed is better, but if the ball placement is right I can rip a one handed. I've won a lot of points because it throws my opponent off. Should I stick to just one though?
It's hard to keep switching between both and eventually, if you hit enough one handers, you'll become dominant with the bottom hand on the two-hander which isn't good
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial thanks for the reply! Keep up the great work. I started playing 7 months ago at 24 years old. I've learned everything I know from watching your videos. No lessons! I can hold my own against 4.0s now :)
I think it's easier to produce racquet head speed with a one handed backhand. Do you think people using one-handed have more body rotation during the setup phase? Thanks for the video.
good video, i'm stuck between staying single or moving to double. Contact point in double is further back I think. When I get it right the double seems far more solid. Guess I could use both single and double. Single for slice and volleys and double for ground strokes. Think single backhand needs more preparation and double is simpler?
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial i have a 2h bh and my only problem is when i have to generate spin, by the lag wrist.. my termination is great, power and depth is good as well.. but my strikes are flat because i dont know the right time (or how to properly) "break" the wrist to generate the spin i need! So, if you can you could make a content in this direction! Ty again Simon! Hugs from Brazil
Very Interesting! I re-started to play tennis since 2 months after ages and I can't manage to decide between the two. What's the way to find your best backhand? Is there a sing or a feeling that one should take in consideration to make the right choice?
I think the best way is to stick to one for a while, lets say a week and then swap over the next week. See which one you feel better with after that trial period. Another method is to get a coach who can examine both technically and give you honest feedback as to what looks better technically All the best Simon
So I instantly picked up the one hand backhand even though I have a perfect 2 hand backhand ( I’ve been told) but I like the one hand back hand more and I feel better when I hit it even though statistically my two harder is way better since I’ve had more practice with it. Any suggestions? When I tried it I felt amazing but my instructor told me to stick with the two hander so idk what I should do
I think scrambling points (quick reactive shots as well as passing shots) are in favour of the thb. You have more power with a thb in those shots. You only have more power with a ohb if you have the time to set up. Otherwise you have les power.
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons, how to hit more solid shots or something because I seem to hit some tennis balls on my frame or barely on the strings..
*И да и нет. Есть много. Но. На одноручном меньше затрат энергии, если умеючи бить, на одноручный, проще забегать вперёд, на одноручном проще обмануть. Вообще это вечный спор. Но нужно именно отталкиваться от данных и удобства спортсмена, стиля игры, даже психологического аспекта. Так нельзя говорить, что лучше. В топах и те и другие*
I started playing tennis almost a year back. Even with multiple practice session focusing only on my one hand backhand, it still sucks. Is it wise to try to switch now rather than later to two handed backhand?
Nadal uses a more extreme grip with both hands for sure, one of the reasons he can't flatten out the shot as well as Djokovic can. Nadal also closes his strings in the prep phase, something few players do
Nico had a great game overall, great serve for a guy his height, good forehand, good hands etc Always felt he was a bit loco though, I spent some time with him in Spain training in the same spot and he was quite an arrogant guy even before he was top 100 All the best Simon
Right now I’m in the awkward situation of where I just recently started practicing one handed, and it’s catching up very fast to my two handed backhand. I’ve hit with a two handed all my life so I’m not entirely sure I want to completely give up either shot. I’ve heard it’s ineffective to have both shots in your arsenal during matches, especially high level, but would it actually be that big of a disadvantage? Imo it seems like it would be good to mix things up, especially if they’re both strong. What’s your opinion?
It could work at a lower level but once you start playing strong opponents and you don't have time to think so much about the switch, it will get confusing and cost you points. It's much better to master one. The other issue is that with time, if you hit one-handers, the bottom hand will become dominant on your two-hander, something you don't want to happen All the best Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial do you think that limiting the use of 2 hands just for return of serve, and using 1 hand in every other game situation, would still be confusing for the player?
Higher for sure, lower balls I’d say the two hander has the slight edge too because of the top hand but with practice, the one hander can be effective on both too
Depends. They should learn what feels more natural to them, with good footwork and training, a one hander is always possible but may take longer to master
Can I play both ? I have played the sport for only 8 months and the backhand stroke is really hard. When the ball is too close , I prefer 1 handed but in general, I prefer 2 handed
As you're new it sounds like you should stick to the 2 hander if you generally prefer that one. If the ball is too close, perhaps you are hitting more of a a one handed slice shot? That is correct anyway, you'd still use one hand for backhand slice.
Feel it’s better to play single or double depending on the situation. For the reach and from back of the court, I prefer single. Close to the net, for placement, feel two hands give more control to place the ball where I like. Started playing single admiring Pete but would also like to play double as an addl skill set
maybe this is a noob question but do people sometimes switch between one-hand and two-hand backhand depending on the shot? ie use two hands returning a hard serve but one hand when rallying?
good points i played two hander majority of my tennis career i will say the 2 hander is more demanding on your footwork and the one hander you have more variety and reach versus the two hander I think the biggest miss on the one hander is on return of serve. But the one hander will develop the forearm muscles so that translates to a more powerful serve and better volley game. There is a reason all the great doubles players and those with a strong net game almost all had a 1 handed backhand.
No... Why don't you include Dominic Thiem in your one-handed backhand examples? He is the best of them, second Wawrinka because his hip is more open, third Shapovalot,... Thiem can hit the ball with an open stance and used to put his left leg in front when he hits the cross court. Shapovalot is another one that hits floating and open, and staying or preparing sideways for the one-handed backhand is old tennis, although it is usually done, but due to the speed of the ball, you have to use open stance, the same case for those of the two-handed reverse. I am a Tennis Coach. Venezuela, both are excellent. Congratulations and Blessings. I buy from you that the two-handed backhand is safer to use and faster to learn.
His backhand got worse in 2017 when he had the elbow issues and wasn't training as much. It picked up again in 2019, this video was filmed Sept 2018, I've been sitting on it for a while
Hi sir i am yuvraj 16 years old .i am actually really confused between using my single handed backhand. Its been almost a year i started playing tennis and my coach started it with teaching me a single hand backhand. In practices and in rallies i really hit a good one handed backhand but in matches i miss it many times. Some of my friends told me to switch to double handed backhand. But i dont know that should i really switch or should i just keep it with my shb and improve it . Because i wanna go pro. My game is improving really good but sometimes it all sucks on my one handed backhand . Could you please suggest me.
If a kid starts off with sponge balls and then progresses through the red, orange and green system, no reason they can't build a solid one-hander. I've started off kids at 3-4 with one handers, they were natural with the one hand so I stuck with that. Two of them ended up playing Auray and Tarbes at 11-12 with one-handers
I’m one handed and I’ve tried the 2 hander but it just feels so unnatural, constrictive and awkward. I think our bodies are different and are wired a certain way to predispose you to either style. My BH is my favorite shot and people always comment how they like my stroke.
Intellectually, I know I should probably switch to a two hander, but I just can't get my body to feel natural doing it. I sail the ball long every time. Unfortunately, when I started playing, I had a firm notion that the two handed backhand was for girls!
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I love your videos. Your style and tone are perfectly accessible and clear yet respectful of players at all levels. Watching you guys train helps me train better. Keep up the great work!
It's all on you, if you choose to stick with two hands, you'll feel better now and might adapt to it well, if you go for the one hander, it'll take longer to master but it might be better in the long run
How can you say that Federer doesn't use his hip when your own clip at 1:02 shows how agressive he rotates his hips. It's not like they're 3.5 club players using 1hbh and arming the ball. All of the one handers start the stroke with hip rotation just like 2 handers.
Does he use forward hip rotation to some degree? Yes. Does he use it as much as a Djokovic or Agassi - no. Far from it. Think about how often we see him finish the stroke in a side-on position with his hips still facing the left side of the court
The reason one-handed finish in that side-arm position is we are TOLD to do so. There are ways of putting more power in the 1hb by using more of the body into the shot.
For one-handers the most used grip is continental or the same as for 2 handed one . I don't see where is the problem even for the 2 handers it's harder
@@martiparti7716 Where are you getting that false information from? The most commonly used grip for one-handers is the eastern backhand grip. Continental grip was common 30 years ago, but nobody hits with that on tour these days. You would be exposed on high balls. In fact, many players use the semi-western backhand grip for one-handed backhands, which is totally different from the continental.
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I tried Eastern because I am not a fan of semi western ( Personaly it'a hard to play with it ) then I've head this from my couch that the grip is the same as for backhand with 2 hands . Actually I use Continentel not as the original one used for volleies and serves a little bit turned to right however still called continental 2
The player with the second highest amount of average spin on his stroke is Richard Gasquet, and it’s his backhand, he only comes second to of course Nadal’s forehand. I’ve played with both and in my experience you can get more spin with a one hander.
Sometimes, I feel it’s good to use double handed backhand at the net to have more control and for better placement. Single hand bh has more power and it’s difficult to put the ball in the court. I’d actually love to have both the skill sets.
Which section of the video are you referring to? This video was filmed back in 2018, released in 2019 so its a very old lesson and I have no memory of what you’re talking about
I think one handers tend to be more talented and naturally gifted players which is something to consider overall in the comparison between one and two handers (Federer vs Nadal is an example)
I can see where you're coming from but I'd say that's not true, Rios and Nalbandian are two of the most talented players of all time and both used a two-hander. I think the one-hander makes the player look more "gifted" because the stroke looks more fluid and free, but that doesn't mean the player has more flair. If you watch myself and Alex hit backhands, many people would assume he's more "Talented" than me because I play with a two-hander but then I bring out the ambidextrous tennis and hit every stroke in the book and those same people would probably change their opinion. All the best Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I take your point Simon, however I am not saying that double handers are not talented, I am saying if two tennis players are on the same tennis abilities level, the single hander is likely to be more talented. so even if yourself and Alex have the same level/ranking and you are more talented that doesn't fully support your claim, we need more tennis players to provide a statistically significant results, or maybe a poll on who are the most talented players and take it from there. Cheers Ayman
I'm not saying I'm more talented, I'm saying that it's all up the individual preference. Some would see me with two hands and think I'm stiff and mechanical, but then I can hit two one-handers and those people would view me differently. Same player, different style! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Download our FREE backhand guides here:
One-handed guide - www.top-tennis-training.com/one-handed-backhand-guide
Two-handed guide - www.top-tennis-training.com/two-handed-backhand-guide
Video timeline:
00:32 - The best two-handers of all time
00:50 - The best one-handers of all time
01:28 - The major advantage of the two-hander
04:10 - Which hand dominates on two hands
05:45 - Chest muscles vs back muscles
06:45 - How to feel stable on the one-hander
07:14 - Differences in the stances and recovery
08:48 - Why it takes longer for one-handers to master their stroke
09:25 - The major advantages of the one-hander7
11:00 - Recap
A one-handed backhand is much more elegant to watch than a two-handed one. Just look at the beauty of Federer's backhand.........a pleasure to watch.
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I mean, Federer just has a more elegant style in general. Nalbandian's backhand is quite beautiful though.
It's not elegant when he hits it off the frame
Yeah but then the question is: Do you come for an elegance contest or to win tennis match ..?😅
and easier
I feel like adding a few more points :
1) One-handed, if well mastered, has a clearly visible edge in terms of power and ball weight (aggressive topspin) . On average, it's more likely to extract an imperfect/weak/short return out of the opponent just thanks to its power and its heavier topspin, while two handers are more at risk of giving the opponent a nice ball to hit, right at hip height, if they don't hit deep enough. Sure, two handers can still reach similar top speeds in winners as one handers, but at cost of even greater risks (partly because they hit flatter).
2) Two handers is more easy and natural to master when facing balls at heights between waist and shoulders/head level, but it becomes really difficult and weird if the upcoming ball bounces even higher than that, more so than the one hander.
3) With a two hander, a more advanced position on court is more intuitive to master, and taking the ball on the rise can feel more natural, but this doesn't mean you can't achieve the same thing with one handed backhand... it just takes more time to master. Federer could tell us something about this.
4) Two handed is quicker to set up in some situations, and one of these situations is when returning big serves. I think this is the area where 2handers have the most visible edge... a pretty important area for sure. Not so many players are able to really take advantage of this though, because they often tend to try using 2 hands even on extremely difficult balls, producing a certain number of weak, floating returns, while onehanders seem to be more natural in switching to blocked returns, which can be not so easy to punish.
At the end of it all, I believe that both shots, if played well, are very suited for modern tennis... I just think that the one hander is largely underrated, and it tends to be taken into consideration far too rarely, especially in female tennis. I really think that a few more players today should stick to the one hander. At the moment, at low/junior levels you can find a rate of maybe 10 twohanders vs just 1 onehander, and seeing so many very average and very stiff 2handers, Roddick or Tsonga style, I think that many of these young players were convinced to play 2handers despite having no real feeling and sensibility for that shot. I think that while choosing the best backhand for every person, tennis trainers should really seriously take in consideration the single handed option, even for girls, and they should choose using better and more solid motivation than "2handed backhand is quicker to learn"
Very good points there
One thing I would add, many girls growing up struggle to generate or control a one-hander so use two hands.
They then grow up with that and changing to a one-hander later is very hard and most won't see the benefit of doing so.
That's a big reason why there are so few one-handers on the WTA tour
All the best
Simon
Correct! I've been coaching over 40 years of tennis. I was a D1 coach, and not one single girl on my team ever had a one-handed backhand. The thing is, almost 95% of all coaches teach two hands on the backhand. The fact of the matter is, if you look in the history books. The number one position has always been dominated by one-handed player, both male and female. Now that they have gone to a stiffer racquet, it's become easier for two hands to generate power, therefore allowing the two-handers to generate the extra power needed to keep their opponent deep. Still, I teach almost exclusively a one-handed backhand to the above average athletes. Once the player understands how to hit it correctly they never go back to two hands. Just look at Justine Henin. She played Serena Williams 14 times and won 6 times. Steffi Graf had 22 grand slams to Serena's 23, but it took Serena much longer time to get that 23th Grand Slam. If they kept all players in the wood racket, I doubt Serena Williams would have ever beat Justine or Steffi. The modern racket has changed the game tremendously, and not for the better. Now the game has become a slugfest. The creativity has been lost. Margaret Court add 24 grand slams 19 grand slams in doubles, 21 grandslam in mixed doubles. So who's the GOAT? A one-handed player no doubt in my mind.
Switching to the 2-hander was the best decision I ever made. I wanted a beautiful 1-hander but the 2-hander is just so practical.
Honest comment, thanks for sharing!
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All the best
Simon
Same. After mastering two hander with at least several 100s of hours of practice, I feel so confident and powerful on backhand side which wasn't the case with one hander. I think Stan and gasquet are probably one of the few players who are feared on backhand. Tsitsipas has a stable single hander but nothing out of the ordinary. Thiem has a huge and impractical swing - seen at RG or nitto finals. Shapo has a soothing backhand to watch and best jump shot. However all the new guys need is a lot more consistency to call it a weapon. Djokovic and nalbandian all the way for double handers.
I can hit a good fast 1 handed backhand after coming back to tennis. Never learnt it when i was younger though. I dont know where my 2 hander is going though
As far as I know, this is the only vid I could find where the pro explains the percent allocation of the top hand versus the bottom hand on the two hander. Its info i've been looking for forever, and he nails it.
Thanks for the support 🙏
Good vid - I've taught for over 30 years and use a single bh. Some additional pros with a single bh is an advanced player can hit with WAY more topspin than a double bh - most double bh players push through a ball and put more of a side spin on (which can be very effective, because it's hard to read for the opponent as to where the ball's path may go, and the ball stays low and at high speeds). Beyond a normal topspin shot, there is an advanced hyper snap of topspin for both fh and bh, but its technique and timing have to be perfect - when done properly, a huge topspin is generated as well as a giant aggressive kick (on opponents' side). The cons though are they are risky shots because the racket head passes through the ball's path so quickly that balls can be shanked off the frame. Also, hyper spins will rip the fuzz right off the ball quickly, so you go through balls fast - and, it's hard on strings - even the best strings break much sooner, so you'll need several rackets just for practices/ workouts let alone matches. But when done properly and in the right situations, these hyper snap topspins really add a nice dynamic to the game.
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Simon
I was taught semi-western grips on both wings and I’m just now realizing how uncommon that is for a two handed backhand. I’ve never had issues with it though even on low balls. I believe it’s why I was able to use my backhand as a weapon all this time. Then I use continental for slices, serves and volleys.
That’s interesting. The body definitely adapts to what we use so over time you’ve probably mastered those grips
Well, as a one handed backhander myself, I definitely like more that one. I think Stan have the most powerful bh at this time, even when you compare it with the two handers. Actually, Gasquet and Wawrinka ohb are the greatest in history in terms of winner points and consistency. I love Nalbandian's thb and I think is the best from thb. But what we like is not the most important thing in tennis but what is most suitable for us. So imho I say that two handed backhand is more prone to back injuries, especially if you're past your prime. Even if you don't have back problems, aging will definitely reduce your back movement and you'll finish trying to hit a backhand without being able to rotate your core. So I think for a player in his mid life or older, one hand backhand will be more safe in terms of avoiding injuries and also easier to hit.
It's a valid point, many two handers end up using more slice backhands as they age for sure
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial True about the back injuries, but OHB is also more likely to generate tennis elbow. Especially in older players who try to hit hard...
@@jdmresearch ohb can be risky for tennis elbow if someone hits with wrong technique. In particular, I think that playing it with bent arm and without the right muscle relaxation can make one very prone to injures. But if you hit with good technique and relaxed arm, I don't see any particular risk in it.
I actually feel more prone to tennis elbow with my 2HBH. When my
non-dominant arm extends over and over I can feel the soreness after long hitting sessions.
I do not have the same issue with pain on the 1HBH.
That said, I’m no expert and may just have poor technique causing the pain on my 2HBH.
Either way, pros and cons to both and it’s a never ending dilemma!
There are a couple more point on the One hander vs two hander ; I completely agree that the two hander has more stability and is more repeatable, but the one hander is more versatile and less ' readable' for your opponent. Tennis has been evolving more towards fitter players, longer rally's and so on, it makes sense for the two hander to be popular. But the reason why the one hander is advantageous is the fact that you can hit a cross or DTL from exactly the same position and create more angles- which is overall tougher for the opponent
The one-hander is for sure a more relaxed shot and the angles you can hit are great if you have solid technique, however, I feel like if you set up properly for a two-hander, you can disguise your shot just as well as any one-hander. The stance and body position tends to give away your intentions, if you mainly use a neutral stance and keep the technique the same, how would an opponent read your shot? Unless you have set patterns and they start to read those
The short cross wide is way more reliable with a two hander and also can be disguised very well.
Kuerten had an amazing one handed backhand
He sure did!
I'd put Kuerten in front of Dimitrov. Dimitrov's backhand isn't that great
Stefan Edberg had a wonderful onehanded backhand, I also liked Rosewall`s.
Yes, the One-hander is more difficult to master for young players. But.... Thiem, Federer, and Tsitsipas weren’t in the semifinals of the year end championships IN SPITE of their onehanded backhands. It is a more varied and - if done right - a more powerful shot.
I concur with that!
However, Djokovic and Rafa would have something to say about that
Who agree to say that wawrinka has the best backhand?
strongest i would agree. but most stylist prefer shapo xD
Wawrinka has one of the best for sure
Federer’s better n looks very graceful.
Federer vs Wawrinka backhand, Feds is better?
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons both are great. My answer probably is due to the bias I have and Federer’s image, aura etc. I watch this match very frequently - fedex v stan Australian open 2017 where both use single hand, I must say that match is a treat to watch. Always love fedex v Stan matches.
Despite the weaker muscles used in the one hander, I think the stroke allows for greater racquet head speed due to addition range and freedom. So it’s not necessarily weaker. Definitely less reliable and stable though!
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Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons thanks for being the best tennis channel! I would love to see you make another movement/agility video. For such a key factor of the game, there’s surprisingly few videos for movement/agility!
My backhand has been far much better as if I had trained for two years in advance because of your tips , thank you so much
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Great video. I use one handed for slices and two handed for topspin. One hand gives me more range but two hands gives more power.
Thanks for sharing and that’s a good methodology
Always felt why people play two-handed backhand. Somehow, felt it inhibits the arm movement. I really feel stuck with two handed backhand. Single hand bh is easier and the follow thru is much easier.
If the one hander works well for you then stick to it for sure.
60-80% of club players who use a one hander will always have a weakness
I've tried my best to learn a thb, but just can't seem to do it.
Jacob Chang Keep practicing. Don’t give up ! You’ll be there one day. It’s like any other thing.
@@jchangesqlawcenter same for me too. I've a one handed which has always been better and way more natural than my forehand, and every time I tried the 2 hander I always felt extremely stiff and constrained. It really can't work for me, and I think it would've been catastrophic if a tennis trainer would've convinced me to stick to the 2hander despite that.
Then, one day I started playing lefty for 3/4 months, because I had to recover from tennis elbow and I didn't want to totally stop playing. I'm partially ambidextrous, so it was not extremely difficult for me, at least to be able to have fun hitting with friends. I tried both styles, and was very surprised in feeling the exact opposite... Lefty 2 hander was extremely easy and natural for me, while I found lefty one hander extremely difficult.
So, now I think it really depends a lot from personal disposition, which can vary even into the same person if you change dominant arm.
Been struggling with tennis elbow so I've been experimenting with a 2HBH when I hit topspin. Don't like the feeling of being restricted, but it definitely is more powerful when you hit it cleanly. Above all else I think it's the second hand that allows you to push out like an opposite side FH that gives you most of the power, but I don't pretend to be an expert on kinesiology. For me the key on the 2HBH is to keep the hands loose and relaxed and really make sure the racquet head is pointing down as you come through. At this point I hit mainly slice on my backhand though, typical old guy I guess LOL.
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I don't really think that the 2 hander is more powerful, I tend to think the opposite is true on average... of course, this is when you take into consideration well developed shots. Perhaps you feel more power with 2 hands just because you don't have to use at 100% an arm which is affected by tennis elbow.
Simon, single handed Backhand players are morally, spiritually, genetically superior to double handed players..and cutting edge research shows ; descended from the people of Atlantis... ( ps i have a single handed BH )
Haha classic comment, love it
Great video. For two handed backhands, Hewitt had a good backhand for baseline work, and Djokovic has a good backhand defence wise. Djokovic also has a good drop shot for a 2 handed backhand. Federer has that amazing slice while Wawrinka and Gasquet have a consistent and powerful backhand for 1 handed backhands.
Agreed!
I’ve always used a two handed backhand and it works a lot better for me. But watching one handers is fun to watch sometimes.
🙌
The two hander is more effective against high balls on clay and to return serve too. You forgot to mention that
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The stats show that during last couple decades there have been about 20% 1HBH players on average among top-100 on ATP side and less than 3% on the WTA. Put this against less than 4% male junior 10-12 year-olds playing one hand, and less than 1% girls of that age. So, percentage-wise, the odds to make it to the top are somewhat better for those few youngsters who start with 1HBH early on.
I would say 1HBH is a tougher shot to master to a decent level than 2HBH. In most cases, those trying to play one-hander are stuck with a huge hole on their backhand side. On the other hand, when developed to perfection, it becomes more powerful weapon than 2-hander. Alas, that happens only at the very top of the game.
Great stats and very valid points
All the best
Simon
When I see just how hard Stan and Thiem hit one handers 😭 I reconsider my life choices.
Andy Murray always brings me back to my roots😅
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Let's settle this once and for all, who has the greatest backhand of all time?
For me its gonna be stan the man... His form is beautiful. The shots he makes with his bh is very punchy and precise too
Me!
Wawrinka for single handers and Nalbandian for double!
Federer's backhand, great drive but a greater slice!
@@novakdjokovic9498 Yeah right! Rafa's is better than yours!
The one hander feels and looks better tho.
Novak has entered the chat...
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial Roger has ended the chat
very competent points. As a one hander I would say hitting the shot shoulder high is especially difficult comparing to a two hander, making this a vulnerable spot. That being said there is something to be said on injury risk on left hand elbow for two handers. There is a lot of pressure on spin shots on that left elbow for two handed backhands whereas for one handers is a more natural flow
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@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial would love new ideas on net game drills, I am working to improve my net game currently
GASQUET! We need a video on his OHBH-it’s arguably the heaviest OHBH. Definitely the most spin. Even Fed has commented on it.
2020. . .
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial That would be an awesome video
Good video. I teach two handed for top spin and the one handed for slices. IMO Martina Hingis had the most complete game in tennis. As you explained the two handed back hand is best for top spin and power, but people with a two handed backhand seldom are good at net. In my experience developing your one handed backhand slice helps develop your net game.
Thanks for these lessons. These are some of the best tutorials I have ever seen.
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Simon
Best double hander:
Djoker, Nalbandian, agassi.
Fognini is good with wrists. Nadal has improved a lot and has a good running backhand. Medvedev is a good stable backhand with unique and weird swing.
Stan and gasquet for single handers. Tsitsipas has a stable one hander. Thiem huge and impractical swing. Shapo best jumping however need was more consistency
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Just hit a left handed forehand (if you're right handed) jezzz it's that simple ;) The ohb has two problems 1.) it is mechanically more complicated than the forehand and even more importantly 2.) you are hitting off the weak side of your body. By using two hands one is forced into using body rotation which is otherwise unnatural because one is hitting on the "off" or weak side of their body. I like to encourage people (who are accomplished players) to try a very simple experiment: if you are, for example righthanded, try hitting a left handed backhand for a while and really learn it. Almost immediately you will notice something odd. You feel much more dexterous and comfortable than you ever could have using your right hand. I experienced this myself as a right hander who as a teen ager injured my shoulder and had to learn to play left handed. I showed this to my mentor and he was blown away, amazed at how well he could play left handed. Had Nadal (a fellow switch hander) learned the one hander instead of the two hander, I am convinced he might well of had the greatest OHB in history. And of course semi-ambidexterity was the secret to Don Budge's backhand.
Training with your non-dominant hand has some massive benefits for sure, a very underused "cheat"
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Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial Anything having to do the serve or service return or how about how on earth should one go about choosing a racket
My favorite players had one hand backhands. That's why I use it. Federer said the same thing. We have the same idols (Sampras, Edberg, Becker, Lendl).
Nice
Tough call. Clearly there are more 2 handers in the pros right now. But some of the best of all time used 1 handers - Federer, Graf, Sampras, McEnroe, Navratilova, Henin,Laver, Becker, Edberg, etc. The 1 hander is probably harder to master but both can work.
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A couple more points. If you do not have your feet in the optimum position for hitting a stroke, your two hander can still be hit with pace, not your one hander. This comes into play while returning serves. It also comes into play if you are destined to only be a high school varsity player. You do not have pro level footwork. A second and crucial point is your wrist is going in its weakest way with the one hand backhand. For example, you do not push furniture across your flat with the back of your hands. Your forehand is one hand also but the wrist is going its strongest way. This comes into play with racquet stability at contact and brushing the ball for topspin. A completely overlooked point is eye dominance. If you brain chooses to use one eye more because you have a weakness in on of your eyes then if it is the wrong eye your one hand backhand will be toast. For example if your right eye is weak on your right handed one hand backhand your strong eye, your left eye being used by your brain more is not even looking at the ball. You are more sideways on the one hander than the two hander and eye dominance comes more into play. If you are not at a tennis academy and blessed with a surplus of talent do not even try the one hand backhand.
All great points and very valid
Thanks for the input
All the best
Simon
I love Simon your thorough explanations. I am going to discuss some of your points with my coaches. A good video would be an analysis of Emma Raducanu's backhand return of serve which was so effective against Kirstea.
Thanks for the support
We’ll see what we can do for the backhand analysis of Emma.
All the best
Simon
I’ve often found myself hitting my two handed with my non-dominant hand adding a lot of power to the swing. I can’t imagine a 1 hander for me ever being more powerful or consistent.
👍
From a physics standpoint, it seems that a bigger player with longer arms could benefit more from a one-handed backhand as having the contact point being father from the body will create more effortless power. Also, high balls, the major weakness for a one-hander, are less of a problem when a player is already very tall.
I'd agree with that, sometimes the taller players lack a bit of strength though so they need to make sure they're physically up to the challenge, longer levers require more stability from the joints/muscles to help balance the stroke
This is the first time I'm going to make a constructive comment (I'm a huge fan of yours. From the first hour. I even shared comments with David N here in Argentina) Having said that, I could see you are not being neutral about the shots. You are "selling" the two backhanded shot, being yourself an expert at it. I used both shots, and now I'm back with the one hand, adapted to modern game. Still, there are pros and cons for both styles. I love the way you both explain everything, being this one an exception. Please do accept my apologies but I think you'll understand that it is with the intention of helping! My best and have a happy new year!!!
Thank you for the honest feedback, I filmed this video around 16 months ago and now looking back, I can see I did lean towards the two-hander which isn't fair for the one-handers out there.
I'll try to make an updated version for 2020 when the weather gets better here in the UK
All the best
Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial Thanks for being straightforward! That's why I think you're the best! Whenever you decide that you could use some good weather you're welcome back to Argentina, I know you have good friends here! Thanks again and I'm looking forward to the new video in 2020! My best to you and Alex
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial It would be nice if Alex explains his point of view about this theme. Being a one hander, maybe he thinks a bit different. I love the 1hbh, for me it's the most beautiful shot in tennis.
@Miguel - Alex admits himself that his backhand has always been his weakness and he wishes he had switched to a two-hander when he was younger. There's only a few great one handers in the world, Wawrinka, Gasquet, Robredo, Federer etc
Never learned or even tried a two hander in all honesty and one hander is simply pretty as heck
One hander is visually better but does it hold up under match pressure as well?
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial For me, I have no choice since I only know how to play a 1HBH. I think overall you’re right and 2HBH imo bails you out from needing perfect timing which is a must for 1 hander
Very very informative and useful.Thank you very much for sharing this video.
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Simon
Denis Shapovalov one handed is absolutely amazing! What do you think of it Simon?
It's a great shot when he's playing well and timing it right, however, a few of his matches I've watched this year, his backhand ends up getting attacked due to him not keeping good enough length or struggling to time it, especially on the clay
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons do you know his grip?
Don't know if someone mentioned it yet, but Gaudio had a tremendous one handed backhand. Not the best in history, but definitely worth mentioning. Of active players, I think Thiem has the best one now.
Gaudio had a great one hander, the French Open 2004 final was his peak, winning the title after saving match points
"2handed is easier"
Federer said that
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Simon
Yeah but did he get the number one in the world with a two-handed backhand?
Need help: I've encountered a struggle but also a revelation. In experimenting with the 1 handed backhand, I've discovered the ability to really drive through the ball with power and spin consistently albeit not accurate yet. In doing so I've realized that THAT is what driving through is supposed to feel like, and the forehand that is supposed to feel that way feels more like brushing up, although occasionally I can drive through it and get the same feel as the strong 1hbh
Love the content Simon! You look so loose and fluid on your 2 hander, any chance you could do a video about how to keep the arms loose on the takeback? I see a lot of 2 handlers (including myself) get tight in the shoulders on the takeback and so their arms extend and they have a Roddick-like backhand: stiff looking. Helping there would be great, thank you and all the best!
I'll keep that in mind for 2020, have you checked out these two-hander lessons - ruclips.net/p/PLJP-Wou-v6z1KTlDs89p0Y-yGwyF-We6e
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons i definitely will, many thanks and much love from San Diego!
I really like that you pointed out that wawrinka rotates his hips more than other one handers. after you pointed that out, I realize that thats why I like thiem's one hander the most out of all the next-gen one handers, because thiem also rotates his hips quite a bit. That's probably why he seems to be able to swing so hard despite not looking like he's all that muscular.
I always kinda felt like the reason why a forehand was more powerful than a two handed backhand was because of reach, that I'm able to make contact further from the body and it gives extra leverage to really apply muscle. but then I also felt then that a one handed backhand should be more powerful because it has more reach than a two hander. Now that you pointed out the hip thing, I realize that's probably why most one handers seem so feeble, but wawrinka and thiem seem to be able to generate just as much raw power on the backhand side as their forehand. likely because they are combining the extra power from the full body rotation associated with two handers with the extra leverage from the reach a hand hander has. best of both worlds in terms of power, though of course the extra stability a two hand gives is missing.
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Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial i havnt seen every video by you guys, but ive been experimenting with swing volley's recently and wondering if there were any tips i should be looking out for. I often find myself creeping forward as I start to take control of a point only to be completely backed off by a soft defensive shot that lands deep. I started trying to take them in the air and using a swing volley in no mans land as an approach shot and finish at net. Mixed success so far. Feels difficult to pull off consistently but its very effective when I can execute on it. Basically the quality of the approach shot i hit varies quite a bit because i find a swing volley to be a very volatile shot for me currently. Wondering how i should handle the shot to more consistently be able to hit an approach shot when im making contact with the ball a step or two inside the baseline around waist height
Everyone has their opinion but I think Gasquet has the best one hander! It looks the best and is a weapon as opposed to just being a backhand. Wishing you all the best of luck!
Gasquet has a wonderful one hander, one of the greatest of all time for sure. Imagine if he had a great forehand too
Very nice video as always!!
Thank you 🙏
Thanks for the information!
I started playing a year ago and found two-handed hard, meanwhile one-handed backhand was comfortable so I only used the latter. I guess it's because I've been playing table tennis for like 20 years. I'm playing just for fun, but do you think I should learn both?
Been waiting for this video for a while!!
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Simon
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons would you do an in depth video about the next gen forehand?
Love your videos btw👍🏼
Do you think it's bad I use both in my matches? My two handed is better, but if the ball placement is right I can rip a one handed. I've won a lot of points because it throws my opponent off. Should I stick to just one though?
It's hard to keep switching between both and eventually, if you hit enough one handers, you'll become dominant with the bottom hand on the two-hander which isn't good
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial thanks for the reply! Keep up the great work. I started playing 7 months ago at 24 years old. I've learned everything I know from watching your videos. No lessons! I can hold my own against 4.0s now :)
Awesome to hear Caleb!
I think it's easier to produce racquet head speed with a one handed backhand.
Do you think people using one-handed have more body rotation during the setup phase?
Thanks for the video.
One handers in general turn the upper body more in the prep phase
I don't find it hard to rotate my hips and open up with onehb, although I admit it feels awkward sometimes
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Simon
good video, i'm stuck between staying single or moving to double. Contact point in double is further back I think. When I get it right the double seems far more solid. Guess I could use both single and double. Single for slice and volleys and double for ground strokes. Think single backhand needs more preparation and double is simpler?
Two-hander is easier to grasp and for sure the one-hander takes longer to perfect
I believe default option is two hander. Only switch to 1h if you can't hit a 2h without hurting yourself and/or framing balls too often.
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Simon
Great explanation.
Glad it was helpful!
Loved the content! Congrats and thank you, Simon. Amazing bh you have!
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Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial i have a 2h bh and my only problem is when i have to generate spin, by the lag wrist.. my termination is great, power and depth is good as well.. but my strikes are flat because i dont know the right time (or how to properly) "break" the wrist to generate the spin i need! So, if you can you could make a content in this direction! Ty again Simon! Hugs from Brazil
On high bouncing courts surely you could use a western forehand grip and then the same grip for a 1 handed backhand on return of serve
Very Interesting! I re-started to play tennis since 2 months after ages and I can't manage to decide between the two. What's the way to find your best backhand? Is there a sing or a feeling that one should take in consideration to make the right choice?
I think the best way is to stick to one for a while, lets say a week and then swap over the next week. See which one you feel better with after that trial period. Another method is to get a coach who can examine both technically and give you honest feedback as to what looks better technically
All the best
Simon
Excellent content!
Superbly informative!!!!
Many thanks 🙏
So I instantly picked up the one hand backhand even though I have a perfect 2 hand backhand ( I’ve been told) but I like the one hand back hand more and I feel better when I hit it even though statistically my two harder is way better since I’ve had more practice with it. Any suggestions? When I tried it I felt amazing but my instructor told me to stick with the two hander so idk what I should do
You should be the captain of your own ship!
Do what your heart says
Serve/smash = Sampras, two hand = Safin, one hand = Guga (Kuerten)
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I think scrambling points (quick reactive shots as well as passing shots) are in favour of the thb. You have more power with a thb in those shots. You only have more power with a ohb if you have the time to set up. Otherwise you have les power.
Bottom continental
Top semi wester/eastern forehand
Reminder for me
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Simon
Top Tennis Training - Pro Tennis Lessons, how to hit more solid shots or something because I seem to hit some tennis balls on my frame or barely on the strings..
Check out this lesson - ruclips.net/video/kK769DLhv8s/видео.html
*И да и нет. Есть много. Но. На одноручном меньше затрат энергии, если умеючи бить, на одноручный, проще забегать вперёд, на одноручном проще обмануть. Вообще это вечный спор. Но нужно именно отталкиваться от данных и удобства спортсмена, стиля игры, даже психологического аспекта. Так нельзя говорить, что лучше. В топах и те и другие*
Each serves a purpose for sure
I learned a lot so thank you !
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Simon
I started playing tennis almost a year back. Even with multiple practice session focusing only on my one hand backhand, it still sucks. Is it wise to try to switch now rather than later to two handed backhand?
Give it a go and see if it suits your game more
All the best
Simon
I can't even make a two handed backhand attempt. It's so awkward for me. I find a one handed much more natural
The one-hander is more natural for some players, stick to what works best for your game
That’s how my one friend is. And I was the opposite haha. Really comes down to what feels better.
I think Nadal puts his bottom hand on grip one not continental.
This generates a more heavy spin.
So what is your opinion on this?
Nadal uses a more extreme grip with both hands for sure, one of the reasons he can't flatten out the shot as well as Djokovic can. Nadal also closes his strings in the prep phase, something few players do
Almagro had one of the best one handed backhands ever. Even though he didn't achieve much with it.
Nico had a great game overall, great serve for a guy his height, good forehand, good hands etc
Always felt he was a bit loco though, I spent some time with him in Spain training in the same spot and he was quite an arrogant guy even before he was top 100
All the best
Simon
Great Video 📹!
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Simon
Right now I’m in the awkward situation of where I just recently started practicing one handed, and it’s catching up very fast to my two handed backhand. I’ve hit with a two handed all my life so I’m not entirely sure I want to completely give up either shot. I’ve heard it’s ineffective to have both shots in your arsenal during matches, especially high level, but would it actually be that big of a disadvantage? Imo it seems like it would be good to mix things up, especially if they’re both strong. What’s your opinion?
It could work at a lower level but once you start playing strong opponents and you don't have time to think so much about the switch, it will get confusing and cost you points.
It's much better to master one. The other issue is that with time, if you hit one-handers, the bottom hand will become dominant on your two-hander, something you don't want to happen
All the best
Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial do you think that limiting the use of 2 hands just for return of serve, and using 1 hand in every other game situation, would still be confusing for the player?
Great video- thx
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Simon
Is it easier for the two handed backhand to hit low and higher balls than for the one handed?
Higher for sure, lower balls I’d say the two hander has the slight edge too because of the top hand but with practice, the one hander can be effective on both too
Big fan coach : should a shorter player (less than 5:8) should learn single handed or double handed).please answer in one word. Thanks in advance
Depends.
They should learn what feels more natural to them, with good footwork and training, a one hander is always possible but may take longer to master
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial thanks, for higher balls does double hand has an edge over the single handed
Can I play both ? I have played the sport for only 8 months and the backhand stroke is really hard. When the ball is too close , I prefer 1 handed but in general, I prefer 2 handed
As you're new it sounds like you should stick to the 2 hander if you generally prefer that one. If the ball is too close, perhaps you are hitting more of a a one handed slice shot? That is correct anyway, you'd still use one hand for backhand slice.
@Choi - It's hard to master one backhand, nevermind two!
Feel it’s better to play single or double depending on the situation. For the reach and from back of the court, I prefer single. Close to the net, for placement, feel two hands give more control to place the ball where I like. Started playing single admiring Pete but would also like to play double as an addl skill set
maybe this is a noob question but do people sometimes switch between one-hand and two-hand backhand depending on the shot? ie use two hands returning a hard serve but one hand when rallying?
Simply hate the feel of 2HBH even though it is easier to learn. Also I hit more dangerous balls with 1HBH . More power, more topspin. Worth it to me.
That’s why it’s so important to experiment and see what suits your game more
good points i played two hander majority of my tennis career i will say the 2 hander is more demanding on your footwork and the one hander you have more variety and reach versus the two hander I think the biggest miss on the one hander is on return of serve. But the one hander will develop the forearm muscles so that translates to a more powerful serve and better volley game. There is a reason all the great doubles players and those with a strong net game almost all had a 1 handed backhand.
Use it whenever needed.one hander should be a surprise weapon
Hard to master both though, but it’s a great option to have 👍
No... Why don't you include Dominic Thiem in your one-handed backhand examples? He is the best of them, second Wawrinka because his hip is more open, third Shapovalot,... Thiem can hit the ball with an open stance and used to put his left leg in front when he hits the cross court. Shapovalot is another one that hits floating and open, and staying or preparing sideways for the one-handed backhand is old tennis, although it is usually done, but due to the speed of the ball, you have to use open stance, the same case for those of the two-handed reverse. I am a Tennis Coach. Venezuela, both are excellent. Congratulations and Blessings. I buy from you that the two-handed backhand is safer to use and faster to learn.
We didn’t have Thiem footage at that time
7:44 : "if you look at Djoko at his prime" so he's not anymore after this amazing season ?! ;) joke aside, great vid as always!
His backhand got worse in 2017 when he had the elbow issues and wasn't training as much. It picked up again in 2019, this video was filmed Sept 2018, I've been sitting on it for a while
Djokovic's prime ended at RG 2016
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial my bad then ! Thought it was new material ;)
Two out of three goats prefer a two hander. It’s also easier on the Arm and more stable imho. Especially with the heavy topspin of the modern game.
Definitely easier to produce power along with control for the majority of players
Hi sir i am yuvraj 16 years old .i am actually really confused between using my single handed backhand. Its been almost a year i started playing tennis and my coach started it with teaching me a single hand backhand. In practices and in rallies i really hit a good one handed backhand but in matches i miss it many times. Some of my friends told me to switch to double handed backhand. But i dont know that should i really switch or should i just keep it with my shb and improve it . Because i wanna go pro. My game is improving really good but sometimes it all sucks on my one handed backhand . Could you please suggest me.
Sorry I do not agree. One handed backhand is very felexible
I think I mention that in the video Ahmet.
More reach with the one-hander
As long kids start so young there will be 2 handlers.
If a kid starts off with sponge balls and then progresses through the red, orange and green system, no reason they can't build a solid one-hander. I've started off kids at 3-4 with one handers, they were natural with the one hand so I stuck with that. Two of them ended up playing Auray and Tarbes at 11-12 with one-handers
I’m one handed and I’ve tried the 2 hander but it just feels so unnatural, constrictive and awkward. I think our bodies are different and are wired a certain way to predispose you to either style. My BH is my favorite shot and people always comment how they like my stroke.
Robredo's bh effortless.
I think Tommy Haas should b mentioned also. 1H...much more pleasing aesthetically
For sure it’s the more beautiful stroke
Intellectually, I know I should probably switch to a two hander, but I just can't get my body to feel natural doing it. I sail the ball long every time. Unfortunately, when I started playing, I had a firm notion that the two handed backhand was for girls!
Hahaha that's funny
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I love your videos. Your style and tone are perfectly accessible and clear yet respectful of players at all levels. Watching you guys train helps me train better. Keep up the great work!
my trainer told me that my 1 handed is way more natural than my 2 handed but my 1 handed it is not as good rn what should I do?
It's all on you, if you choose to stick with two hands, you'll feel better now and might adapt to it well, if you go for the one hander, it'll take longer to master but it might be better in the long run
How can you correct a baseball style two handed backhand? That's my greatest issue in tennis. I cannot drop the racket when I will strike the ball.
How can you say that Federer doesn't use his hip when your own clip at 1:02 shows how agressive he rotates his hips. It's not like they're 3.5 club players using 1hbh and arming the ball. All of the one handers start the stroke with hip rotation just like 2 handers.
Does he use forward hip rotation to some degree?
Yes.
Does he use it as much as a Djokovic or Agassi - no.
Far from it. Think about how often we see him finish the stroke in a side-on position with his hips still facing the left side of the court
The reason one-handed finish in that side-arm position is we are TOLD to do so. There are ways of putting more power in the 1hb by using more of the body into the shot.
Not really, try opening up the shoulders without using your non-hitting hand to balance the body, see what happens
It is difficult to change grip every time for one-handed backhand
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For one-handers the most used grip is continental or the same as for 2 handed one . I don't see where is the problem even for the 2 handers it's harder
@@martiparti7716 Where are you getting that false information from? The most commonly used grip for one-handers is the eastern backhand grip. Continental grip was common 30 years ago, but nobody hits with that on tour these days.
You would be exposed on high balls.
In fact, many players use the semi-western backhand grip for one-handed backhands, which is totally different from the continental.
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I tried Eastern because I am not a fan of semi western ( Personaly it'a hard to play with it ) then I've head this from my couch that the grip is the same as for backhand with 2 hands . Actually I use Continentel not as the original one used for volleies and serves a little bit turned to right however still called continental 2
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial about high balls I've done well even today however most of the times I just make a few steps back for higher balls
Is it possible to generate spin while using a single hand backhand?
Yes of course, you can generate good topspin with the right technique and of course underspin with the slice backhand
The player with the second highest amount of average spin on his stroke is Richard Gasquet, and it’s his backhand, he only comes second to of course Nadal’s forehand. I’ve played with both and in my experience you can get more spin with a one hander.
Sometimes, I feel it’s good to use double handed backhand at the net to have more control and for better placement. Single hand bh has more power and it’s difficult to put the ball in the court. I’d actually love to have both the skill sets.
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Simon
As a one hand backhand player, it’s easy to get tennis elbow pain using it.
Easier for sure than with two hands
So, what do you mean by "a little bit ahead" if the one hander example is the greatest player of all time? Who is it that is beating him, exactly?
Which section of the video are you referring to? This video was filmed back in 2018, released in 2019 so its a very old lesson and I have no memory of what you’re talking about
I think one handers tend to be more talented and naturally gifted players which is something to consider overall in the comparison between one and two handers (Federer vs Nadal is an example)
I can see where you're coming from but I'd say that's not true, Rios and Nalbandian are two of the most talented players of all time and both used a two-hander. I think the one-hander makes the player look more "gifted" because the stroke looks more fluid and free, but that doesn't mean the player has more flair. If you watch myself and Alex hit backhands, many people would assume he's more "Talented" than me because I play with a two-hander but then I bring out the ambidextrous tennis and hit every stroke in the book and those same people would probably change their opinion.
All the best
Simon
@@TopTennisTrainingOfficial I take your point Simon, however I am not saying that double handers are not talented, I am saying if two tennis players are on the same tennis abilities level, the single hander is likely to be more talented. so even if yourself and Alex have the same level/ranking and you are more talented that doesn't fully support your claim, we need more tennis players to provide a statistically significant results, or maybe a poll on who are the most talented players and take it from there.
Cheers
Ayman
I'm not saying I'm more talented, I'm saying that it's all up the individual preference. Some would see me with two hands and think I'm stiff and mechanical, but then I can hit two one-handers and those people would view me differently. Same player, different style! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
Jaime Izaga had the best back hand in the world.
It was good but not near the level of Wawrinka
Which one is more powerful of them ?
Both.