How to Grip a Tennis Racket

on 7/5/2007 I have been using two handed backhand for almost 10 years now. I first started out with a one handed backhand. There is no argument about which one is better. It is pretty much up for personal references. The main difference is one hander allows longer reach and two hander provides more control. It's up to the players to choose which style is more suitable.

on 8/8/2006 One handed backhand is better simply because there is less movement involved. Also the reach advantage with one handed is better than two handed. Remember, if you can't get to the ball, you can't hit it.

For beginners the two handed backhand gives you the impression you have more power, but that's not true. It is all about the contact point. If you make contact late, and have a two handed backhand, you can use the left or right shoulder to help muscle the ball with a one handed backhand. If your contact is late the ball is more powerful than you and the result is that you have no power. The contact point must always be in front of your body.

on 11/22/2005 Unless you're really good with two hands, only go for one. When I first began (I'm still a beginner, but I've gotten over the habit), I'd hold the racket with two hands before I hit the ball. It looked more like I was playing baseball with tennis equipment. I hit the ball way out of the tennis court. I'd highly suggest not doing it, it'll get on people's nerves when they have to keep walking a long distance just to get your ball.

on 11/22/2005 I've noticed that the Continental grip is especially convenient for volleying as it can be used for both backhand as well as forehand volleys, which saves precious response time at the net that would be otherwise wasted in changing one's grip.