Bradford Athletics

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Bradford Tennis Tips - Strokes

How to Hit a Two-Handed Backhand Volley

If you love the two-handed backhand ground stroke, chances are you'll comfortably adopt the two-handed backhand volley. Follow these steps and finish the point at the net.

• STEP 1: Position yourself about 3 feet from the net.
• STEP 2: Keep your feet spread about shoulder-width apart.
• STEP 3: Hold the racket using a two-handed continental grip - use your non-dominant hand to support your dominant hand by overlapping or interlocking with it.
• STEP 4: Hold the racket with the head vertical (strings perpendicular to the ground) and directly in front of you. The bottom of the handle should be even with your belly button.
• STEP 5: Bend your knees slightly. You should be able to feel some strain on your quadriceps in your thighs.
• STEP 6: Step toward the ball with your right foot (or left foot if you're left-handed). Turn your shoulders slightly to the left (or right) and keep both hands firm on the racket.
• STEP 7: Drive the racket forward in one smooth stroke as the ball draws even with your lead shoulder. The head should be pointing up and the ball should hit the middle of the racket face evenly.
• STEP 8: Continue to push the racket forward until the ball has been hit across the net. Concentrate on releasing the weak hand from the handle after the ball has made contact with the face.
• STEP 9: Follow through on the ball with your swing, keeping a firm grip on the racket so that it doesn't fly out of your hand.