The Eastern Backhand Gip And The One-Handed Backhand
Eastern backhand refers to the type of grip that is used on the racquet during the one-handed backhand stroke. The Eastern grip is commonly thought of as "old school" compared to some of the grips that are being used by some of the newer tennis pros. I couldn't find a definitive answer as to what "old school" means, but I'm pretty sure that means the traditional way.
The thing about the Eastern backhand is that it is exactly the same grip that is used in the Eastern forehand stroke. Since it's been good enough for generations of players and because you are probably already using this grip for your forehand, then this is the grip you should be using. I will describe how to make this grip in the next module.
The thing about the Eastern backhand is that it is exactly the same grip that is used in the Eastern forehand stroke. Since it's been good enough for generations of players and because you are probably already using this grip for your forehand, then this is the grip you should be using. I will describe how to make this grip in the next module.
Making The Eastern Backhand Grip
Two Different Ways To Do It
The Eastern backhand grip is also known as the "shake hands" grip because if you hold the racket out in front of you with your left hand and the face of the racket perpendicular to the ground, you should be able to grab the racket handle as if you were shaking hands with someone.Another way to make the Eastern backhand grip if you are a right hander, is to once again hold the racket straight out in front of you with your left hand just ahead of the handle, the handle should be parallel to the ground and the racket face perpendicular to the ground, The bevel that is now on top of the handle is called the #1. Place the knuckle just before your index finger on this bevel. The heal pad of your palm should also be on this bevel.. This should be the Eastern grip. For left handers, just reverse the process.
A third way to end up with the same result is to start out the same, but instead of putting your thumb and fingers on the face, try placing the "V" between your thumb and forefinger on the top of bevel # 1 of the racket.
Next, wrap your fingers and thumb around the handle. This should result in the Eastern backhand grip.
Demonstration Of How To Make The Eastern Backhand Grip
I know it's hard to keep everything straight when reading about it, so here's a short video with Brent Abel that hopefully will clear everything up.
How To Use The Eastern Backhand Grip
Demonstration
Here is Roger Federer using the Eastern backhand grip in action with the one-handed backhand.
Using The Eastern Backhand Grip
Putting It All Together
This Eastern backhand grip is only used for the one-handed backhand. The two-handed backhand usually uses entirely different grips. I say usually because some coaches teach the Eastern for the two-handed backhand and some don't. I guess it's just a case of whatever works for you. I think a lot of coaches don't use the Eastern grip in the two-handed backhand because in the two-handed backhand the racket should end up behind your head after you hit, while in the one-handed backhand you should end up with your arm straight and the raclet slightly above your head.If you would like to find out more about the Eastern backhand or any other aspect of the backhand, please visit the link below.
Here's my favorite link:
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- The Eastern Backhand Grip
- This lens tells how to perform the Eastern backhand both in print form and in video.
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- The Eastern Backhand Grip
- This lens tells how to perform the Eastern backhand both in print form and in video.
by Tennis_Jock
I live near Portland, OR. Up until I had a stroke a few years ago I liked to play tennis, ski and fly airplanes and gliders. If I couldn't find anyone... (more)
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