Backhand technique: keeping contact near the body

What this lesson covers

Elbow pain often stems from hitting the ball too far from the body. When the ball is out of reach, the natural tendency is to lift the elbow and force the stroke, which places excessive strain on the joint. This issue is compounded when attempting to cross the ball from a poor position, as the biomechanics become inefficient and the required force increases significantly.

To correct this, the focus must be on footwork that brings the body into alignment with the point of impact. Whether stepping across with the lead foot or adjusting backward, the goal is to maintain the contact point between the knee and hip. Keeping the ball close to the body ensures a fluid motion and removes the need for excessive arm force. This approach is ideal for any player experiencing discomfort during backhand shots.