Pickleball Backhand – Rules, Types, Method, and Importance
As with any other sport, different techniques can be used in pickleball. The backhand serve is one of the most important shots in the game – and it’s not as easy as it looks!
There are several types of backhand serves, each with its method and purpose. Learning how to execute this shot correctly can help you keep your opponents on their toes and score points.
Read on to learn more about the different types of backhand serves and how to use them effectively.
In This Post
What Is a Backhand in Pickleball?
The backhand is one of the most important strokes in pickleball. It is used to return the ball to the opponent and can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
The backhand is often used when the player is in a position where they cannot reach the ball with a forehand stroke. When executed properly, the backhand can be an extremely effective stroke.
However, it is important to remember that the backhand is a defensive stroke and should only be used when necessary. Overusing the backhand can lead to fatigue and may ultimately result in losing the game.
Types of Backhand Serves
There are four main types of backhand serves – the backhand drive, the backhand drop shot, the backhand volley, and the backhand lob. Each stroke has a different purpose and can be used to keep your opponents guessing.
1. Backhand Drive
The backhand drive is the most common type of backhand serve. It is used to return the ball deep into the opponent’s court and can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
This stroke is most effective when used against an opponent who is standing at the back of the court.
2. Backhand Drop Shot
The backhand drop shot is used to return the ball short and is often used when the player is in a position where they cannot reach the ball with a forehand stroke. It can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
This stroke is most effective when used against an opponent who is standing at the front of the court.
3. Backhand Volley
The backhand volley is used to return the ball deep into the opponent’s court and can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
This stroke is most effective when used against an opponent who is standing at the back of the court.
4. Backhand Lob
The backhand lob is used to return the ball deep into the opponent’s court and can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
This stroke is most effective when used against an opponent who is standing at the back of the court.
Benefits of Using a Backhand Serve
There are several benefits of using a backhand serve, including:
- It is an effective way to return the ball deep into the opponent’s court.
- It can be used to keep opponents guessing.
- It is a good way to fatigue opponents.
- It is an effective way to score points.
When executed correctly, the backhand serve can be an extremely effective stroke. However, it is important to remember that the backhand is a defensive stroke and should only be used when necessary. Overusing the backhand can lead to fatigue and may ultimately result in losing the game.
Pickleball Backhand Serve Rules
There are some important rules to remember when using a backhand serve, including:
- The ball must be hit with the back of the paddle.
- The player must be behind the baseline.
- The player must not step over the baseline.
- The player must not double hit the ball.
- If the player hits the ball out of bounds, they will lose the point.
Remembering these rules will help you to use your backhand serve effectively and avoid making any mistakes. Breaking any of these rules will result in losing the point.
How to Hit a Backhand Serve in Pickleball?
Hitting a backhand serve in pickleball may seem like a difficult task, but with the right technique, it can be quite easy. The key is to swing from your shoulder, using all of your arm muscles to generate power.
Once you have generated enough power, take a step into the ball, this will transfer your weight onto your front foot and enable you to hit the ball with more force.
Furthermore, make sure that the paddle face is open when you make contact with the ball, as this will lift it over the net and into the deep court. With a little practice, hitting a backhand serve in pickleball will become second nature.
How to Improve Your Backhand Serve?
There are a few things you can do to improve your backhand serve, including:
- Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at hitting the backhand serve.
- Pay attention to your technique. Make sure you are following all of the correct steps and that your paddle face is open when you make contact with the ball.
- Use a heavier paddle. A heavier paddle will help you to generate more power and hit the ball with more force.
- Change your grip. Experiment with different grips until you find one that is comfortable for you and allows you to generate the most power.
By following these tips, you can dramatically improve your backhand serve and become a more effective player. Practice makes perfect, so make sure to hit the court often.
Importance of the Backhand Serve
The backhand serve is an important stroke in pickleball. It is used to return the ball to the opponent and can be executed by holding the paddle in both hands and hitting the ball with the back of the paddle.
The backhand is often used when the player is in a position where they cannot reach the ball with a forehand stroke. When executed properly, the backhand can be an extremely effective stroke.
However, it is important to remember that the backhand is a defensive stroke and should only be used when necessary. Overusing the backhand can lead to fatigue and may ultimately result in losing the game.
Last Thoughts on the Backhand Serve
The backhand serve is an important stroke in pickleball. When used correctly, it can be an extremely effective way to return the ball deep into the opponent’s court.
However, it is important to remember that the backhand is a defensive stroke and should only be used when necessary. Overusing the backhand can lead to fatigue and may ultimately result in losing the game.
By following the tips in this article, you can improve your backhand serve and become a more effective player. Practice makes perfect, so make sure to hit the court often. With a little practice, you’ll be hitting backhand serves like a pro in no time.
