The open stance one-handed backhand is a modern tennis technique that allows players to generate more power and control while hitting on the run. This shot is particularly useful for players who have a one-handed backhand, as it helps them compensate for the limitations in reach and stability that can sometimes occur with this grip. In this article, we'll explore the intricacies of the open stance one-handed backhand, covering everything from the fundamental techniques to advanced strategies that can elevate your game. Let's dive in and unlock the secrets to mastering this dynamic shot!

Understanding the Open Stance

Before we delve into the specifics of the one-handed backhand, let's first understand what the open stance really means. In tennis, the stance refers to the position of your feet relative to the direction of the ball. The open stance involves positioning your body so that your front foot is angled away from the net, often pointing towards the sideline. This stance allows for greater rotation of the hips and torso, which in turn generates more power and enables you to recover quickly for the next shot.

Benefits of the Open Stance

The open stance offers several advantages, especially for players with a one-handed backhand:

• Increased Power: The open stance allows for greater rotation of the body, which translates into more power behind the shot.
• Improved Reach: This stance enables you to reach balls that are wide to your backhand side more effectively.
• Better Balance: The open stance provides a more stable base, helping you maintain your balance while hitting on the run.
• Faster Recovery: The open stance facilitates quicker recovery, allowing you to get back into position for the next shot more efficiently.

Key Elements of the Open Stance

To execute the open stance effectively, keep these points in mind:

• Foot Placement: Angle your front foot away from the net, towards the sideline. Your back foot should be positioned slightly behind and parallel to your front foot.
• Body Rotation: Rotate your hips and torso as you prepare to hit the ball. This will help you generate power and maintain balance.
• Weight Transfer: Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing. This will help you drive through the ball and add power to your shot.
• Balance: Maintain a low center of gravity and keep your core engaged to stay balanced throughout the shot.

Technique for the Open Stance One-Handed Backhand

Now that we understand the basics of the open stance, let's focus on how to apply it to the one-handed backhand. The key is to integrate the principles of the open stance with the fundamental techniques of the one-handed backhand. This involves adjusting your footwork, grip, and swing path to maximize the benefits of the open stance.

Grip

The grip for the open stance one-handed backhand is typically the same as your regular one-handed backhand grip. Most players use either a Continental or an Eastern backhand grip. Experiment with both to see which one feels more comfortable and allows you to generate the most power and control.

• Continental Grip: This grip is versatile and allows for good slice and volley shots. It's a good option if you like to mix up your game.
• Eastern Backhand Grip: This grip provides more power and control on flat and topspin shots. It's a solid choice if you prefer a more aggressive backhand.

Footwork

Footwork is crucial for the open stance one-handed backhand. You need to be quick and agile to get into the correct position. Here's a breakdown of the footwork:

• Initial Movement: As the ball approaches your backhand side, move quickly to get into position. Use small, quick steps to adjust your position.
• Setting Up: As you approach the ball, set your feet in the open stance. Angle your front foot towards the sideline and position your back foot slightly behind your front foot.
• Weight Transfer: As you swing, transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot. This will help you drive through the ball and generate power.
• Recovery: After hitting the ball, quickly recover your position by taking small, quick steps back to the center of the court.

Swing Path

The swing path for the open stance one-handed backhand is similar to your regular one-handed backhand swing, but with a few key adjustments. The main goal is to use your body rotation to generate power and maintain control.

• Backswing: Take the racket back in a smooth, controlled motion. Keep your wrist firm and your elbow close to your body.
• Forward Swing: As you swing forward, rotate your hips and torso towards the ball. Keep your eye on the ball and swing smoothly through the contact point.
• Contact Point: Make contact with the ball out in front of your body. Keep your wrist firm and swing through the ball with a full extension.
• Follow-Through: Follow through with your swing, allowing your racket to come across your body. This will help you maintain control and generate topspin.

Drills to Improve Your Open Stance One-Handed Backhand

To master the open stance one-handed backhand, it's important to practice regularly and focus on specific drills that will help you improve your technique. Here are a few drills to get you started:

Crosscourt Backhand Drill

This drill focuses on hitting crosscourt backhands from the open stance. Have a partner feed you balls to your backhand side, and focus on setting up in the open stance and hitting the ball crosscourt with power and control. The goal is to improve your consistency and accuracy while hitting from the open stance.

Down-the-Line Backhand Drill

This drill is similar to the crosscourt drill, but instead of hitting the ball crosscourt, you'll be hitting it down the line. This will help you develop your ability to change the direction of the ball and keep your opponent guessing.

Backhand Volley Drill

This drill focuses on hitting backhand volleys from the open stance. Have a partner feed you balls to your backhand side, and focus on setting up in the open stance and hitting the ball with a firm wrist and controlled swing. This will help you improve your volley technique and your ability to react quickly at the net.

Movement and Recovery Drill

This drill focuses on improving your footwork and recovery speed. Have a partner feed you balls to your backhand side, and focus on moving quickly to get into position, hitting the ball from the open stance, and then recovering quickly back to the center of the court. This will help you improve your overall agility and stamina on the court.

Advanced Strategies for the Open Stance One-Handed Backhand

Once you've mastered the basic technique of the open stance one-handed backhand, you can start incorporating some advanced strategies into your game. These strategies will help you use the open stance to your advantage and give you an edge over your opponents.

Using Angle

The open stance allows you to generate more angle on your backhand shots. By opening up your body and swinging across the ball, you can hit sharp angles that will pull your opponent off the court and open up opportunities for you to attack.

Hitting on the Rise

The open stance also makes it easier to hit the ball on the rise. By setting up in the open stance and swinging early, you can take the ball before it bounces, putting pressure on your opponent and giving them less time to react.

Incorporating the Slice

The slice is a valuable tool for any one-handed backhand player, and the open stance makes it even more effective. By using the open stance, you can generate more backspin on your slice shots, making them more difficult for your opponent to handle.

Attacking Short Balls

When your opponent hits a short ball to your backhand side, the open stance allows you to attack aggressively. By setting up in the open stance and swinging through the ball with power and topspin, you can hit a penetrating shot that will put your opponent on the defensive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with proper instruction and practice, it's easy to make mistakes when learning the open stance one-handed backhand. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Rotating Your Body Enough: Make sure you're rotating your hips and torso as you swing. This is crucial for generating power and maintaining balance.
• Swinging Too Late: Make contact with the ball out in front of your body. Swinging too late will result in weak, uncontrolled shots.
• Not Transferring Your Weight: Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing. This will help you drive through the ball and add power to your shot.
• Losing Your Balance: Maintain a low center of gravity and keep your core engaged to stay balanced throughout the shot.

Conclusion

The open stance one-handed backhand is a powerful and versatile shot that can significantly improve your tennis game. By understanding the principles of the open stance and integrating them with the fundamental techniques of the one-handed backhand, you can generate more power, improve your reach, and enhance your overall court coverage. Remember to practice regularly, focus on specific drills, and avoid common mistakes to master this dynamic shot. With dedication and perseverance, you'll be hitting impressive open stance one-handed backhands in no time! So, go out there, hit the court, and elevate your game!