ART-461: Backhand Approach Shot
Executive Summary
The backhand approach shot is a transitional shot that allows the player to move from the baseline to the net. It can be a drive, a slice, or a flat shot, depending on the situation. Mastering the approach shot is essential for an aggressive, varied game that includes effective net play.
The Purpose of the Approach Shot
The approach shot is hit from inside the baseline with the intention of moving forward to the net. It is typically hit on a ball that is not high enough for an aggressive drive but is not low enough for a standard drive. The approach shot should be hit with the intention of moving forward, not just hitting a good shot.
The approach shot is a key component of the transition game, allowing the player to finish points at the net and apply pressure on the opponent.
Types of Approach Shots
The backhand approach shot can be a drive, a slice, or a flat shot, depending on the situation. The drive approach is hit with topspin, providing margin and depth. The slice approach is hit with backspin, producing a low, skidding shot that is difficult to attack. The flat approach is hit with minimal spin, producing a penetrating, low-trajectory shot.
Players should choose the type of approach shot based on the tactical situation, the opponent's position, and the court surface.
Technique for the Approach Shot
The technique for the approach shot depends on the type of shot. For a drive approach, the player uses a low-to-high swing path and a slightly closed racket face. For a slice approach, the player uses a high-to-low swing path and an open racket face. For a flat approach, the player uses a level swing path and a vertical racket face.
In all cases, the player should move forward as the shot is hit, maintaining the momentum needed for the net approach. The contact point should be in front of the body, allowing the racket to accelerate through the ball.
Body Position for the Approach Shot
The body position for the approach shot reflects the forward momentum. The stance is typically open or neutral, with the weight transferring slightly forward through the swing. The player should be moving forward as the shot is hit, maintaining the momentum needed for the net approach.
Players should practice the body position for the approach shot, ensuring that the rotation and weight transfer are appropriate for the shot. This develops the consistency needed for an effective approach.
Common Approach Shot Errors
One common error is hitting the approach shot too short, allowing the opponent to attack. Another is failing to move forward, resulting in a loss of momentum. Some players also fail to adjust the approach shot based on the situation, resulting in predictable shots that the opponent can anticipate.
Players who struggle with the approach shot often benefit from drills that emphasize forward movement and shot selection. Practicing the approach with a focus on these elements helps develop the technique needed for an effective shot.
Drills for the Approach Shot
Several drills help develop the approach shot. The "approach drill" involves having a partner feed short balls, practicing hitting an approach shot and moving forward to the net. The "variation drill" involves practicing different types of approach shots, developing the ability to choose the right shot for the situation. The "transition drill" involves practicing the full transition from baseline to net, developing the court coverage needed for effective transition play.
Players should incorporate these drills into their regular practice routine, focusing on developing the technique needed for an effective approach shot.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach too short | Not enough depth or spin | Easy for opponent to attack | Develop depth; drill heavy topspin |
| Cannot approach | Not moving forward after the shot | Caught in no-man's land | Practice transition drill; focus on forward movement |
| Approach predictable | Always hitting same way | Opponent anticipates | Vary approach shots; drill variation |
| Cannot finish points | Approach too weak or too slow | Opponent recovers | Develop strong approach; drill offensive situations |
| Cannot transition | Footwork slow or timing poor | Caught in no-man's land | Develop efficient footwork; drill transition |
Practical Application: "The Approach Practice"
Have a partner feed short balls to your backhand side. Practice hitting approach shots and immediately moving forward to the net. Focus on producing a shot that allows you to reach the net before the opponent can react. Track progress over sessions to ensure the approach is developing correctly.