Backhand volley technique: body weight and contact

What this lesson covers

The backhand volley relies on body rotation rather than just arm movement. Preparation begins with the racket head up and the shoulder turned toward the back wall. The feet stay wider than shoulder-width to maintain balance throughout the motion. A lower grip, with the hand positioned slightly off the bottom of the handle, allows for an open racket face at contact. The point of contact occurs in front of the body to ensure control and direction.

Power comes from stepping forward with the lead foot at the exact moment of impact. This synchronization transfers body weight into the ball. When the incoming ball travels quickly, the preparation must remain compact and in front to avoid being jammed. If the ball is high, the focus shifts to placing it away from the opponents. For a drop shot, the hand tension decreases significantly compared to a standard volley, and the shot works best when opponents are pinned deep against the back glass.