If you're like a lot of pickleball players, your backhand might feel like the less-invited guest at the party. Always around, rarely the center of attention. But a weak backhand can quickly turn into an obvious liability on the court. But like most shots, there is a positive here. With a few form tweaks, targeted drills, and a little consistency, your backhand can become one of the most reliable (and even aggressive) shots in your toolkit, especially when it comes to topspin drives and roll shots.

Time for a boost.

Why Most Backhands Fall Short

The backhand is often underdeveloped for three main reasons:

Over-reliance on forehands – It’s common to favor forehand strokes and run around your backhand, but that habit can limit growth.
Poor mechanics – Without the right grip, paddle path, and body positioning, backhands tend to fall flat, literally.
Not enough reps – Most players don’t spend focused time drilling their backhand. Getting better means getting uncomfortable… and sticking with it.

Form Tweaks: Build the Foundation

Before jumping into drills, start with the basics:

Grip:

If your grip feels a bit stiff or like your wrist is locked, try shifting to a continental or slightly eastern backhand grip. This opens up the paddle face and helps generate spin.

Paddle Path:

For topspin and roll shots, think low to high. You want to brush up on the ball, like you’re lifting it with the paddle edge, not slapping it flat. Meet the ball out in front and follow through with your “wingspan” (so to speak).

Stance and Footwork:

Stay low and balanced.
Use a closed stance (non-dominant foot forward) to load up for power.
Rotate through your core and shoulders; don’t rely on just your wrist. Your body wants to turn into the shot, so let it.

4 Drills to Build a Confident Backhand

Ready to stop avoiding your backhand? These drills will help you rewrite your muscle memory and build control, spin, and power.

1. Wall Rollers

Focus:: Topspin timing and paddle path
How to: Stand 6–10 feet from a wall. Use only your backhand to hit continuous roll shots off the bounce. Focus on brushing up the back of the ball. Then, progress to hitting them out of the air around waist height, always meeting the ball out in front.
Tip: Start slow and prioritize spin and accuracy. Speed can come later.

2. Backhand-Only Mini Rallies at the Kitchen Line

Focus:: Touch and fast hands
How to: With a partner, dink cross-court using only your backhand. Stay focused on paddle angle and soft control. As you improve, speed it up with quick volleys.
Variation: If the ball pops up, add a topspin roll to increase tempo and challenge your partner’s reactions.

3. Crosscourt Backhand Drives

Focus: Power, depth, and topspin (great for serve returns)
How to: From the baseline, drive crosscourt backhands into the opposite corner. Aim to clear the net at shoulder height.
Bonus: Place cones with balls on top as accuracy targets.

4. Drop, Drive Mix Drill

Focus: Shot selection and in-game adaptability
How to: Alternate between a backhand drop shot and a backhand drive. This simulates transitional play and helps you build confidence in choosing the right shot.
Tip: Pay attention to which shot feels more consistent. Sometimes the smarter choice is the safer one.

Final Takeaway

Your backhand doesn’t have to be a fallback shot. With a little attention, it can become a dependable weapon that gives you the edge in rallies. Next time you hit the court, don’t run from it.. LEAN INTO IT. Drill it. Shape it.

Fix Your Backhand: Pickleball Drills for Power, Spin & Control