As pickleball continues to grow in popularity across all age groups and skill levels, players are constantly looking for ways to enhance their performance on the court. One area gaining attention is the use of a two-hand backhand, a technique long utilized in tennis but increasingly adopted by pickleball players. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, understanding the benefits of the two-hand backhand can elevate your game in noticeable ways.

1. Improved Stability and Control

One of the most immediate advantages of the two-hand backhand is increased stability. Using both hands provides better control over the paddle face, helping players direct the ball with greater precision. This is especially helpful when returning fast-paced shots or dealing with topspin from an opponent.

• Why it matters: More control means fewer mishits, better accuracy on passing shots, and more consistency from the baseline or the kitchen line.

2. Enhanced Power Without Sacrificing Accuracy

Contrary to the belief that a single hand provides more freedom for power generation, the two-hand backhand can actually deliver more controlled power. The second hand acts as a lever, adding strength and support, particularly on drives or when countering aggressive shots.

• In practice: Players who struggle with depth or pace on their backhand can often generate more power with less effort using two hands, especially on return-of-serve or baseline rallies.

3. Body Balance

While a one-handed backhand allows for a slightly longer reach, the two-hand backhand can help balance the body more efficiently during off-balance or on-the-run shots. The added hand keeps the paddle stable, allowing players to recover more quickly after each shot.

• In doubles play: This improved recovery can be the difference between staying in a rally and being out of position for the next shot.

4. Better for Beginners and Transitioning Tennis Players

For newcomers to pickleball or those transitioning from tennis, the two-hand backhand feels more familiar and less technically demanding. It reduces the learning curve for backhand mechanics and helps players feel confident sooner.

• Muscle memory: Tennis players, in particular, find it natural to carry over their two-handed backhand to pickleball, making it an easy and effective adaptation.

5. Helps With High Backhand Returns

High backhand shots, particularly lobs or volleys at shoulder height, can be awkward with one hand due to limited leverage. A two-hand grip provides more support and power, making it easier to execute solid returns from high or difficult angles.

• Result: Fewer weak pop-ups and more offensive options from tough defensive positions.

6. Psychological Confidence

There’s an often-overlooked mental benefit to the two-hand backhand: confidence. Players frequently report feeling more secure and in control using both hands, which can reduce hesitation and improve overall gameplay under pressure.

Considerations and Trade-Offs

While the two-hand backhand offers many advantages, it’s not without limitations:

• Reduced reach: You may lose an inch or two of reach compared to a full one-handed extension.

• Limited flexibility at the net: In very tight kitchen exchanges, two hands may feel restrictive.

• Requires strong non-dominant arm: Your non-dominant hand must be trained to assist effectively, which can take time.

That said, many players develop a hybrid style, using a two-hand backhand for baseline rallies and a one-hand for dinks or net play, capitalizing on the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

The two-hand backhand in pickleball is more than just a carryover from tennis—it’s a strategic tool that offers increased control, power, and consistency. Whether you’re looking to shore up a weak side or expand your shot selection, adding or refining a two-handed backhand could be a game-changer.