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Show Your Numbers On The Backhand
Failure to rotate the shoulders properly is the greatest single cause of a flailing backhand.
The transfer of leaning concept partially explains why most players' backhands are a constant source of embarrassment. The inexperienced player, when hitting forehands, can succeed without first turning his shoulders to the side.
Since strength is not crucial when hitting from an open (facing the net) stance, he has no problem. Later, when the player tries to learn the backhand, a negative transfer of leaning occurs. He didn't have to rotate his shoulders on the forehand, so he doesn't worry about it on the backhand.
To overcome this leaning dilemma, you'll have to work extra hard to develop the backhand technique - a technique that eventually will become a habit, and that habit will some day make your backhand a fun shot to hit.
Pretend you have numbers on the back of your shirt, like a soccer player. Whenever a ball approaches your backhand side, rotate your shoulders so your opponent can see your numbers. Do it as quickly as you see it' s coming to the backhand. Before the ball bounces say to yourself, "Show my numbers." Make a game of it. For the next few weeks prepare for every backhand that way.
Once you show your numbers properly, the backhand is one of the most uncomplicated shots in the game.
It's just your arm that does the work. Some liken the motion to that of throwing a frisbee. Stay sideways to the net throughout the entire stroke.
Reach forward to make contact. Try to hit the ball as far out front as possible. Follow through high, so your hand is above eye level.
See? It' s easier than you thought.
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