The backswing is just a small segment of a tennis stroke, but it is one of the most important aspects. The backswing in many ways determines how your stroke technique will be. In modern tennis, players like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer use loop backswings. In classic tennis, players like John McEnroe used straight take backs. While the loop backswing generally is better for intermediate and advanced players, beginners can have more success with a straight take back.
Straight Backswing
Step 1
Start in ready position with your racket in front of you. Turn your body to the appropriate side for a forehand or backhand.
Step 2
Bring your racket back as you turn sideways. For a straight backswing, bring the racket back without altering its distance from the ground.
Step 3
Finish your take back with the butt cap of your racket at hip level, pointing toward your opponent.
Step 4
Use the straight take back if you are a beginning tennis player or have been using a straight take back and are comfortable with it.
Looped Backswing
Step 1
Start in ready position. Turn your body sideways toward the appropriate side for the stroke you are going to hit.
Step 2
Bring your racket back as you turn sideways. Make sure the head of the racket is above the handle of the racket. The head of the racket should be brought sideways at the level of your head.
Step 3
During the take back, imagine the tip of your racket is tracing a capital "C." During the take back portion of the swing, the racket will travel only through the top half of the "C" motion.
Step 4
As the racket approaches the end of the backswing, start dropping the racket head to help facilitate a low-to-high swing path during the forward swing.
Step 5
Use the looped take back if you are an intermediate or advanced player. The looped backswing, when properly executed, provides extra racket head speed, which provides extra power, spin and control.
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