Changing Grip Between Backhand and Forehand

Travis Hart Asked 12 years ago

My forehand grip (shakehand) is different from the original grip shown on the website but when i try to play a backhand i have to change my grip to the original and then back to my other grip to play forehand. Is this OK?

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Travis,

Spend a bit of time to adjust your grip so that it remains the same for both forehand and backhand. It is difficult to be changing grips during the rally because you just don't have enough time in most cases.

It is better to develop your strokes with the same grip.

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Jon Ferguson Posted 12 years ago

I have noticed a few world class players (Timo Boll, etc) changing grip from forehand to backhand, but as Alois said, it is only a small adjustment in order to flatten out the blade for very fast attacking strokes. I have found that, like twiddling, it only tends to complicate matters. Most strokes can be played with the standard grip.

Jon Ferguson

Ram Sood Posted 12 years ago

the ball keeps on hitting my finger during the backhand for me. what should I do

michael richardson Posted 12 years ago

Ram - every player experiences the occasional ball hitting the finger so you are not alone in this. Perhaps your finger is too vertical on the backhand side. I think you should follow Alois' example and concentrate on your finger being vertical and along the base of the rubber. Hope this helps.

Mick Richardson

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago

I think that is good advice Michael. If you are keeping your finger in the correct position and you are still hitting your finger then try watching the ball more closely and getting the ball to hit the middle of your racket. You can do this during your warm up on the backhand side.

kathy mckelvey Posted 7 years ago

Yes I am able to maneuver the bat more freely now compared to when I first started playing. I would use both hands to be able to get a steady grip. Thank you for the video!

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 7 years ago

No problems Kathy.