ART-0625: The Two-Handed Volley β Power and Control on Both Sides
Executive Summary
The two-handed volley uses both hands on the racket for added power and control, typically on the backhand side. It is most commonly used by players who employ a two-handed backhand on baseline shots, as the grip transition to a one-handed continental volley feels unnatural. The two-handed volley provides more stability and power than the one-handed version but limits reach and directional flexibility. Understanding when to use each volley style is key to a versatile net game.
The Two-Handed Grip for Volleys
For a right-handed player, the two-handed backhand volley grip places the right hand in an eastern backhand grip (bevel 1) and the left hand in a semi-western forehand grip (bevel 4). Both hands remain on the racket throughout the stroke β there is no release of the non-dominant hand. The continental grip is used for the forehand volley, creating a grip difference between forehand and backhand volleys that requires conscious switching.
Advantages of the Two-Handed Volley
The two-handed volley offers: (1) more power β both arms contribute to racket head speed, (2) greater stability β the two-handed grip resists the ball's impact better, (3) better control against hard passing shots β the two-handed grip is more effective for blocking, (4) consistency for players with two-handed backhands β no grip change required, and (5) confidence β players feel more secure with two hands on the racket. These advantages make the two-handed volley popular among recreational and club players.
Disadvantages of the Two-Handed Volley
The two-handed volley has limitations: (1) reduced reach β the second hand restricts the arm's extension, making wide volleys harder to reach, (2) limited directional flexibility β the two-handed grip makes it harder to hit down-the-line (the natural trajectory is cross-court), (3) slower grip transition β switching from two-handed backhand to one-handed continental forehand volley takes time, (4) vulnerability to low volleys β the two-handed grip makes it harder to get low for below-net balls, and (5) difficulty with overheads β two-handed overheads are impractical.
When to Use the Two-Handed Volley
Use the two-handed volley: (1) on the backhand side when facing hard passing shots (the extra stability helps), (2) when you have time to set up with two hands, (3) for blocking fast balls that you cannot hit with a one-handed volley, (4) when confidence in the one-handed backhand volley is low, and (5) in doubles where the net player faces hard returns at close range. Do not use it: (1) on wide balls where reach is limited, (2) for drop volleys (one hand provides better touch), (3) when hitting overheads (one-handed only), or (4) when quick grip transition to forehand is needed.
The Forehand Two-Handed Volley
While rare, some players use a two-handed grip on the forehand volley as well. This is most common among players with extreme western forehand grips who struggle to transition to the continental grip. The forehand two-handed volley has the same advantages (power, stability) and disadvantages (limited reach, directional rigidity) as the backhand version. Most coaches recommend using the continental grip for forehand volleys to develop a complete net game.
Transitioning Between One-Handed and Two-Handed Volleys
Players who use a two-handed backhand volley must transition to a one-handed continental grip for forehand volleys. This transition should occur during the approach shot β as you move forward, release the non-dominant hand and shift to the continental grip. Practice this transition until it becomes automatic. Some players release the non-dominant hand during the split step at the service line, preparing for a one-handed forehand volley.
Common Two-Handed Volley Errors
Failing to release the non-dominant hand when switching to forehand volleys β leads to "two-handed forehand volleys" that limit reach and power. Using the two-handed volley on wide balls where one hand would provide more reach. Not bending the knees for low volleys β the two-handed grip makes it harder to get low. Gripping too tightly with both hands β creates forearm tension and reduces touch. Using the two-handed volley for drop volleys β the touch is insufficient.
Tactical Application
Use the two-handed volley to: (1) block hard passing shots on the backhand side, (2) add power to backhand volleys in doubles, (3) provide stability when facing big hitters, and (4) build confidence in the net game for players who struggle with the one-handed volley. In doubles, the two-handed backhand volley is particularly effective for blocking returns of serve at close range.
Two-Handed Volley Drills
The "two-handed block" drill practices blocking hard passing shots with a two-handed grip. The "transition" drill practices switching from two-handed backhand volley to one-handed forehand volley. The "volley rally" drill exchanges two-handed backhand volleys cooperatively. The "competitive volley" drill practices two-handed volleys in match-like situations.
Summary
The two-handed volley is a valid option for players who use a two-handed backhand, providing extra stability and power at the cost of reach and directional flexibility. The key is knowing when to use it (hard passing shots on the backhand side) and when to switch to one-handed volleys (forehand side, wide balls, drop volleys). Practice the transition between grips until it is automatic.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannot reach wide backhand volleys | Two-handed grip limits reach | Frame shots, missed volleys | Use one-handed volley for wide balls |
| Slow transition to forehand volley | Not releasing non-dominant hand | Late contact on forehand volley | Practice releasing non-dominant hand during approach |
| Drop volley lacks touch | Two-handed grip too rigid | Drop volley too hard | Use one-handed volley for touch shots |
| Two-handed volley lacks power | Grip too tight, no leg drive | Weak volley | Relax grip, engage legs and rotation |
| Cannot hit down-the-line | Natural cross-court trajectory | Predictable volleys | Practice closing face, aim follow-through down-the-line |
Practical Application: "Two Hands for Power, One Hand for Reach"
Use the two-handed volley when you have time and need stability (hard passing shots on the backhand side). Switch to one-handed volleys when you need reach (wide balls) or touch (drop volleys). The ability to switch between the two styles makes you a more versatile net player.