Can You Use Two Hands In Pickleball Backhand?

Pickleball is a fun and social paddle sport that has exploded in popularity in recent years. One of the strategic shots in pickleball is the backhand, which can be hit either with one hand or two hands on the paddle. So can you use two hands for the backhand in pickleball?

Quick Takeaways:

Using two hands for the backhand stroke is allowed and encouraged in pickleball for beginners learning the game.
The two-handed backhand provides more power and stability but less reach and flexibility than a one-handed grip.
Top professional pickleball players utilize both one-handed and two-handed backhand grips effectively.
Mastering the two-handed backhand takes coordination and practice, but can give players great control on backhand shots.
Players should choose whether to use one or two hands based on their style, strengths, and personal preference.
While optional, the two-handed backhand is a highly effective technique that is worth learning for intermediate and advanced players.

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Like these racquet sports, pickleball allows players to use either one or two hands for gripping the paddle on backhand shots. While some modification of grip and stance is required, the skills from tennis and other racquet sports can translate well to mastering the two-handed backhand in pickleball.

The Two-Handed Backhand Grip and Stance in Pickleball

The two-handed backhand grip in pickleball utilizes one hand to grip the paddle handle, while the other hand grips the paddle face or neck area. Typically, the dominant hand is placed below on the handle, providing most of the power on the shot. The non-dominant hand grips the paddle face for support, stability and additional force.

For right-handed players, the right hand usually grips the bottom of the handle, while the left hand holds the paddle face area on the forehand side. Lefties reverse this hand placement. Some key elements for the two-handed backhand grip include:

Hands spaced 4-6 inches apart on the paddle for leverage and twisting force.
Dominant bottom hand controls the paddle face angle and power.
Non-dominant top hand stabilizes the shot for control and adds snap.
Light, relaxed grip to allow wrist movement and paddle twisting.
Hands work together to drive the paddle face through the ball.

The stance for the two-handed backhand is also crucial. Recommended footwork includes:

Feet positioned shoulder-width apart for balance.
Body rotated sideways with weight slightly forward.
Front foot points towards the net or target.
Back foot angled outwards for leverage and hip/shoulder rotation.
Knees bent and weight balanced between feet.

Proper footwork and stance allow pickleball players to turn and shift their weight into the two-handed backhand for maximum power and control.

Benefits of Using Two Hands for the Pickleball Backhand

Utilizing two hands for the backhand stroke provides some key advantages:

More Power on Backhand Shots

With two hands gripping the paddle instead of one, players can generate significantly more force on backhand drives and returns. The non-dominant hand adds snap and leverage to complement the power from the dominant hand. This gives more depth and velocity on backhand groundstrokes.

Increased Control and Stability

The second hand on the paddle face adds stabilization against ball impact, reducing twisting and vibration. This allows better control of backhand placements with fewer errors caused by instability. Players can take bigger swings while maintaining control.

Greater Reach on Wide Balls

Due to the wider hand placement on the paddle, the two-handed backhand enables slightly more reach on balls hit far out wide to the backhand side. The top hand can extend just a little further to return difficult shots.

Easier for Beginners to Learn

For pickleball newcomers, starting out with a two-handed backhand grip provides an easier learning progression before attempting one-handed strokes. The second hand lends support and balances out errors as beginners develop proper swing technique.

Effective Defense Against Powerful Shots

Against hard-hit drives or smashes to the backhand, the dual-hand grip provides the control and pop needed to make consistently strong defensive returns. The extra stability is key for absorbing and redirecting pace from opponents.

For these reasons, it is highly recommended for beginner and intermediate pickleball players to develop a solid two-handed backhand. As skill level improves, some players may transition to a one-handed grip, while others retain the two-handed style.

Downsides and Difficulties of the Two-Handed Backhand

Of course, utilizing two hands on backhand shots also comes with some disadvantages and challenges:

Reduced Reach and Court Coverage

Due to the wider hand spacing, the two-handed backhand has slightly less reach towards each sideline. This can limit court coverage compared to the longer reach of a one-handed grip.

Restricted Wrist Flexibility

With both hands fixed on the paddle, there is less ability to flex and snap the wrist for touch shots. The wrist is more locked, reducing feel.

More Complex Technique

Mastering the coordinated movement of both hands through the swing takes more practice. For some players, the two-handed technique may feel awkward at first.

Challenging Grip Transition on Quick Shots

Changing grips fast from forehand to two hands on fast-paced balls requires excellent reflexes and hand-eye coordination. This can lead to errors.

Less Deception Options

The dual-hand grip makes it harder to deceive opponents with slice or blocked backhands. The swing path tends to be more straightforward.

Not Allowed in Higher Tennis Levels

Serious tennis players should note the two-handed backhand is restricted or prohibited once players advance to high school, college, pro and ITF tournaments.

For these reasons, some intermediate and advanced players may opt to switch to a one-handed backhand to gain flexibility and deception. But plenty of top pickleball players continue using the two-handed grip very successfully.

Pro Pickleball Players Utilizing the Two-Handed Backhand

Looking at professional pickleball tours and rankings shows that both one and two-handed backhand grips are well-represented at the highest skill levels:

Simone Jardim

The #1 ranked female player often utilizes a compact yet powerful two-handed backhand, allowing her great control to aim placements while handling pace.

Lucy Kovalova

Currently ranked #4, Kovalova mainly uses a two-handed backhand to generate depth and power, especially on returns of serve.

Catherine Parenteau

The 2021 APP Tour Champion has a streaking two-handed backhand that she can drive down the line or cross-court with precision.

Riley Newman

On the men’s pro circuit, Newman relies on his two-handed backhand for outstanding reflex returns and passing shots.

Rob Cassidy

Thanks to great footwork, Cassidy excels at pivoting into his two-fisted backhand to hit sharp angle winners from defensive positions.

There are certainly many other top pros who use effective two-handed backhands along with those favoring one-handed grips. No single style dominates professional pickleball.

How and When to Use the Two-Handed Backhand Effectively?

To maximize the benefits of the two-handed backhand, players should utilize it strategically in key situations:

Returning Powerful Serves

The dual-hand grip provides the control to counter hard under spin or topspin serves to the backhand. A strong two-handed return can neutralize a big serve.

Rally Consistency

During long groundstroke rallies, the two hands provide consistency swinging volley-to-volley to hit with depth and place shots out of reach.

Passing Shots Under Pressure

When pulled wide and needing to hit a backhand passing shot against active poachers at net, the extra power and stability of two hands becomes very useful.

Lobs on the Run

On the move and stretched out, players can knife a two-handed backhand lob that carries over opponents’ heads using the dual-hand leverage.

Backhand Defense Behind the Non-Volley Zone

Against smashes or rapid fire sequences, the two-handed backhand often excels at making reflex blocks and return zingers from behind the non-volley zone.

With practice, intermediate to advanced pickleball players can learn to integrate the two-handed backhand selectively in the above situations where it provides an advantage.

Mastering the Two-Handed Backhand Technique in Pickleball

Successfully hitting impactful two-handed backhand shots requires proper technique and repetition. Here are some tips for mastering this stroke:

Start with the hands in the proper grip and stance as outlined earlier. Have an instructor check form.
Focus on keeping both hands relaxed in their grip pressure, avoiding tension.
Turn sideways and shift weight into the shot. Use the hips and core for power.
Keep the paddle face square through impact, avoiding flipping or opening it.
Time the stroke so both hands drive forward together through ball contact.
Let the dominant arm extend in follow-through for top spin.
Use circular shoulder turns for smooth acceleration and swinging volleys.
Maintain balance and recover to a centered ready position after stroking.
Drill backhands repeatedly to program in the right hands, footwork and rotation.
Utilize two-handed backhand drills and practice games to develop technique.
Use the two-handed backhand consistently in matches to integrate it fully into playing strategy.

With dedicated practice integrating it into gameplay, pickleball players can make the two-handed backhand a real weapon in their arsenal.

Common Errors to Avoid in the Two-Handed Backhand

While learning the two-handed backhand, players should be aware of these common mistakes to avoid:

Gripping too tightly with tension in the hands, arms and shoulders
Forgetting the second hand and just slapping at the ball one-handed
Not turning the body sideways enough during preparation and swing
Overgripping the top hand high up on the paddle neck
Double hitting or pushing the ball due to lack of forward swing
Hitting too much across the body instead of forward towards target
Flipping the paddle face open on contact leading to errors
Poor footwork and weight transfer causing balance issues
Overusing the hands/arms and not engaging the core and legs
Rushing the stroke instead of swinging smoothly through the ball

With good coaching focus and self-analysis, players can identify and eliminate backhand errors. Consistency comes from quality repetition.

How Age and Physical Ability Affect Choice of One or Two Hands?

Younger pickleball players in their teens and 20s generally have the athleticism to utilize either one or two-handed backhands effectively. Good hand-eye coordination, strength and flexibility enable younger competitors to handle both styles well.

For beginners and intermediates in their 30s-50s, the two-handed backhand often provides needed stability as they build stroke skills. Recreational players in this age group gain great benefit from the two-hander.

Among seasoned players and seniors in their 60s-70s, individual strengths and preferences tend to dictate choice of grip style. Some older players still swing very well with two hands, while others modify to a one-hander.

Regardless of age, players with shoulder, elbow or wrist limitations may prefer the two-handed option to share stress across both arms. And those with hand or finger injuries may need to opt for a one-handed grip to avoid pain.

Determining the Right Grip Approach for You

Here are some factors to help pickleball players determine if they should pursue one-handed or two-handed backhand techniques:

Consider your experience level and strengths. Beginners gain stability from two hands.
Analyze your torso flexibility and ability to turn and rotate your body sideways.
Assess your hand-eye coordination for swings, volleys and quick exchanges.
Check your hand and arm strength and endurance through long matches.
Determine if you like hitting flatter balls or with heavy topspin.
Think about your foot speed and ability to cover court playing defense.
Reflect on your doubles partner and team patterns and tactics.
Try out matches with each grip style objectively and see which produces better results and feels more natural.
Obtain feedback and input from coaches or more experienced pickleball mentors.
Remember, you can always still mix in both one and two-handed backhand hits depending on circumstances.

Carefully weighing these factors will guide players in choosing the best backhand grip method. Both one and two-handed techniques can be highly effective when mastered.

Conclusion: The Two-Handed Backhand is a Powerful Pickleball Weapon

In conclusion, using two hands for the backhand stroke is clearly allowed and offers compelling advantages in pickleball. While requiring more initial practice, the two-handed backhand provides extra power, control and stability for intermediates learning the game. It also remains a common and successful technique among elite professional players.

New pickleball players should embrace the two-hander early on for solid results. As skills progress, athletes can later modify to a one-handed backhand or utilize both grips. Through personalized training and repetition, the two-handed backhand can become a potent and reliable weapon in any player’s Pickleball arsenal. With versatile shot-making and smart strategy, mastering two-handed backhands and forehands together will enable pickleball players to find winning success on the court!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you switch between one and two handed backhands in pickleball?

Yes, it is permitted to alternate between one and two-handed backhand grips during a pickleball match. Many intermediate and advanced players mix in both styles situationally. Based on positioning and the shot required, they choose the best option for each stroke while playing.

Is the two-handed backhand better for power or control in pickleball?

The two-handed backhand generally provides advantages in both power and control. By using the second hand on the paddle face for stability, players can take bigger swings for force while maintaining control of backhand placements.

Are there any rules against using two hands in pickleball?

There are no pickleball rules prohibiting use of two hands on backhand shots. Recreational and professional pickleball permit both one and two-handed backhand grips. The only limitation is that the paddle must remain below waist level on contact.

Can you play competitive pickleball with just a two-handed backhand?

Yes, many top professional and tournament pickleball players utilize a two-handed backhand the majority of the time. With enough practice, the two-hander can be used exclusively to reach a high competitive playing level.

Is it better for seniors and older players to use one or two hands for backhands?

For older pickleball players, either grip can work well. Some seniors and grandparents prefer the stability of two hands to start out, while others utilize their experience with tennis one-handers. Flexibility, strength and personal choice are key factors.

How long does it take to get comfortable with the two-handed backhand in pickleball?

For most beginners, it takes 2-3 months of regular play and practice to gain reasonable proficiency with the two-handed grip. Within 6 months to a year, intermediate players can truly master this technique. Coaching accelerates this timetable significantly.

What muscles are used in the two-handed backhand?

Key muscle groups engaged are the shoulder, arm, and wrist flexors to swing and the core rotators to turn and shift weight. The quadriceps, glutes and calves provide leg drive. A kinetic chain sequence through the body transfers force into the ball efficiently.

Where should beginners position the non-dominant hand in a two-handed grip?

For support and control, beginners should place their non-dominant hand 4-6 inches up from the handle on the paddle face. Gripping too high up limits leverage. An instructor can provide guidance on optimal hand placement.

What footwork is best for moving into two-handed backhand shots?

Sideways cross-over steps or a pivot on the front foot are effective footwork techniques to align the body and move into backhand position. Side-to-side weight transfers generate power. Keeping feet active provides great court coverage.

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