Hitting a solid backhand has as much to do with how you get to the ball as it does with your swing. Many tennis players don't rotate their upper body enough on the backhand, requiring them to try to make the shot with their forearm only. Running to the ball in the wrong way also can get you too close to it, jamming you and creating a weak shot.
Pivot
The first move for a backhand is the pivot. The pivot is the movement you make with your upper body before you begin to run to the ball. This helps you get your racket back so it's in the proper place when you get to the ball, and helps you get turned enough to use larger muscles, such as your thighs, hips and lats, to swing the racket. As soon as your opponent hits the ball and you see it's going to be a backhand, pivot from your core, not just your shoulder, to begin your shot.
Grip
As you pivot you can change your grip to your backhand grip. Whether you use a one- or two-handed backhand, use both hands to control your racket, using your non-gripping hand to help quickly turn the racket to the proper grip. For a one-handed backhand, place your knuckles on the top, thin bevel for an Eastern grip. This will create a movement similar to drawing a sword out of its sheath. For a two-handed backhand, put the heel of your left hand against the fat bevel at the back of the grip, when the racket face is pointing toward the ball.
First Step
Your pivot should provide you with a quick weight shift that gives you momentum to start running to the ball. Practice taking your first step across your body without turning your upper body, then practice taking your first step after you've pivoted to see the difference. If you are a right-handed player, your pivot will shift your weight onto your left leg. You will then use your left foot to push off as you take your first step with your right foot. The pivot, grip change and first step take place within a split-second of each other.
Racket Back
As you take your first step toward the ball, bring your racket back behind you. As a practice method, point the butt of the racket at the ball as soon as you see you're getting a backhand during your pivot. Use two hands to bring the racket back, even if you have a one-handed backhand. This will help you rotate your upper body back enough to hit a powerful stroke. Your opponent should see your back before you hit a backhand. This allows you to put your legs, hips and butt into your shot, using large muscles to generate power.
Run
Run with your racket back if you are just learning the stroke. This will allow you to stop, step and be balanced when you get to the ball. If you wait to bring the racket back, you will end up taking an extra step when you get to the ball, get too close to it and get jammed.
Step Forward
When you get in position to hit the ball, step forward toward the other side of the net, rather than sideways toward the sideline. This will allow you to get your weight into the ball. Plant your front foot just as you are about to hit the ball. You do not want to be moving without stopping when you hit the ball, nor do you want to be completely stopped. This is known as dynamic balance.
Swing
Swing your racket at the ball, using your left hand to drive the racket forward if you are right-handed and have a two-handed backhand. This will let you use the large muscles you use on a forehand to create more power. Use your left hand to stabilize the racket as you bring it back if you have a one-handed backhand, releasing it just as you swing forward. Weak, one-handed backhands often result from not using the second hand long enough to help you rotate your upper body. Drive the racket forward with your shoulder, core and hips, rather than letting the racket pull your shoulder after you swing.
Recover
If you have rotated your upper body correctly, stepped into the ball with dynamic balance and pushed the racket forward with your core, torso and shoulders, your back foot should swing forward to keep you on balance. Recover to the center of the court with a shuffle step to play the next shot.
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