Jack Munro on Two Handed Backhand: Professional pickleball players Tanner Tomassi and Jack Munro recently collaborated on a YouTube video, offering an in-depth guide to mastering the two-handed backhand in pickleball. Munro, with a DUPR rating of 6.6, breaks down the technique, helping players improve their game, especially on the backhand side. The video emphasizes the importance of footwork, grip, and speed-ups, making it a must-watch for players aiming to level up their skills.
Key Tips on the Two-Handed Backhand
The video starts with Munro explaining the basic footwork necessary to hit a consistent backhand. “You want to be sideways, not closed off,” he advises. “If you close your feet, it makes it harder to react to the next shot.” The key, he says, is ensuring your body faces the net, not the sideline, to maintain balance and readiness.
When discussing the grip, Munro shares a personal preference: “I use two fingers on the back of the paddle for more control.” This, he believes, helps with consistency, especially when hitting speed-ups off the bounce. Munro points out that while two fingers on the back may not be common, it offers better control during fast-paced play.
Speeding Up the Ball
A major highlight of the video is Munro’s explanation of when to speed up the ball. He advises players to look for the right bounce height and to test their opponents’ reactions. “If the ball is higher than my knee, I speed it up,” Munro shares. He also suggests varying your speed-up shots, depending on the opponent’s movements. “If I speed up down the line and they slide middle, the next shot should be aimed down the line again.”
The Triangle Effect and Anticipation
One of Munro’s signature techniques is the “triangle effect,” which involves positioning to anticipate the next ball after a speed-up. “After a speed-up, I slide back to the middle of the court to be ready for the next shot,” Munro explains. He adds that a key to high-level play is recognizing the ball’s trajectory and responding quickly to it. Munro stresses that every speed-up should be seen as a setup for the next shot, not an attempt to win outright.
Real-Time Demonstrations and Practice Drills
The video also includes a practical drill where Munro and Tomassi dink crosscourt, with Munro attacking through the middle or down the line. Tomassi is given feedback on improving his speed-up technique, particularly focusing on staying ready for the next shot. Munro’s advice is clear: “Speed up and then quickly get back into position for the next ball.”
The Importance of Consistency and Preparation
Munro’s advice for players looking to improve their two-handed backhand emphasizes consistency. “The goal is to be as consistent as possible with your backhand,” he notes. “If you can dink with precision and speed up effectively, you’ll become a much bigger threat in the game.”
As players continue to incorporate Munro’s tips into their training, the impact of these techniques is clear. Mastering the two-handed backhand allows players to become more aggressive and unpredictable, making it a key skill for anyone looking to improve their game.
News in Brief: Jack Munro on Two Handed Backhand
Professional pickleball players Tanner Tomassi and Jack Munro share their expertise in a YouTube video about mastering the two-handed backhand. Munro, with a DUPR rating of 6.6, highlights key elements like footwork, grip, and when to speed up the ball. His tips, including the “triangle effect,” help players improve consistency and elevate their game.