# Should I hit my backhand with one hand or two hands?

- Published: September 27, 2026
- Updated: September 28, 2026
- Author: Coby T, Tennis coach in Blackhawk, California

Source: https://sites.coach/teachmeto/blog/untitled-post-5

It depends.  I would say start by feeling what feels most natural by trying both out.  If you are still unsure after that then consider the positive in having both and pick one based on the type of tennis player you want to be.  I will first go over the benefits of having a two-handed backhand. 

A doubled-handed backhand is the most common backhand that players use and this is because it is more compact and easier to make the ball in consistently with.  The backhand in general is mainly just to make the shot in the court and not necessarily used as the dominant shot (Forehand is usually a player's dominant shot).  So if you want to have a more consistent shot for the backhand it would be wise to choose the two-hander.  Another benefit in having a two-handed backhand is you will likely miss less on that side since it is solid and easier to feel the ball hit the strings being that both hands are on it.  One more reason most people choose this one over the one-handed backhand is because it is very easy to learn which makes it convenient for players wanting to pick up on the sport quickest.  There is more technique issues that often go wrong when trying to learn how to hit the one-handed backhand as a beginner making a two-handed one a more appealing method.  

Now, while a two handed-backhand is the most common type of backhand, a one-handed backhand is still a popular shot that some players go with.  The positives associated with a one-handed backhand include it's power and it's flexibility which I will go into further detail moving forward.  First, is the power element.  There is ultimately more leverage with this form of backhand swing since you are able to move your arm from a longer distance as opposed to a two-handed backhand so more momentum can be generated due to this.  With more momentum in your backhand swing, you are able to dictate the rally and use it as a weapon to hit more winners against your opponent.  So if you are trying to develop a powerful shot and be willing to sacrifice your consistency on your backhand side then that would be a good reason to select the one-hander.  

Though there are good reasons to choose both types, it is clear as to why most decide a two-handed backhand is the most suitable approach.  The negatives outweigh the positives when it comes to using a one-handed backhand.  One negative is that you are more likely to have more injuries as you are involving your wrist a lot more leading to wrist sprains with less support from both hands guiding the swing at racquet impact on the tennis ball.  For example, if you are a right-handed player and have a one-handed backhand, only your right wrist is being used to hit the ball which may make your wrist extremely sore over time.  A two-handed backhand on the other hand would mean that your left arm is being used with the right hand also to guide the swing which distributes the impact of the ball more comfortably to both hands.  Another downside to adopting and one-handed backhand is that you will likely be less precise in hitting it especially at the novice stages of its development.  This brings about a lot of common issues such as timing difficulties.  The timing of your footwork and swing preparation will become more important with the use of a one-handed backhand.  This is why when you see Roger Federer hit his one-handed backhand it looks so clean and effortless as his swing preparation and time is so advanced and ahead that he can hit the one-handed backhand so good.  The amount of practice to reach this level of one-handed backhand talent requires a very disciplined and dedicated tennis player and one that is open to constant criticisms and understands the work it takes to make it a powerful shot.  

CT

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