Connor Garnett’s Six Steps to a Professional Backhand: Pickleball professional Connor Garnett has shared a six-step method to help players improve their two-handed backhand drive. In a recent video filmed for his online followers, Garnett teaches techniques for better speed, spin, and control during games, using easy drills and clear instructions for players of all levels.
Garnett breaks down his strategy into key parts, starting with grip. For right-handed players, he suggests using a continental grip with the dominant hand. The non-dominant hand grips from the top, adding spin and control with the pointer finger stretched behind the paddle.
Movement and Footwork
Garnett focuses next on how to move. He teaches players to start with a split step just as their opponent hits the ball. Long steps help get into position, followed by short steps to adjust. Power comes by stepping heel-to-toe with the lead foot when hitting the shot.
He says real strength doesn’t come from the arms. Instead, “Swinging harder isn’t always better,” Garnett explains. Energy moves from the legs through the hips and core—this is called the kinetic chain. Body rotation, not arm strength, leads to better shots.
Where and How to Hit
Another key point is the contact spot. Players should watch the ball all the way to the paddle, much like a football player catching a pass. Letting the ball fall a little before hitting helps build better spin and control.
In the swing, Garnett teaches players to let the non-dominant hand guide the paddle, especially when aiming crosscourt. That hand adds spin and helps aim the ball, while the main hand supports the swing.
To add topspin, Garnett compares the motion to a windshield wiper. The paddle dips under the ball, then brushes up and over it. This makes the ball drop fast after going over the net and forces opponents to hit up.
Practice and Drills
For practice, Garnett recommends two drills. First, using a ball machine, players should hit dipping drives at about 70% strength. Second, they should practice with a partner at the net and aim to keep the ball below the partner’s chest.
He also suggests using tools like Wingfield tech, available at the Pickler, to track shot landing spots and adjust for better depth and accuracy.
Learning Step by Step
To close the video, Garnett tells players to work on one skill at a time. “Intentional drilling” is key—not just hitting balls, but practicing with a clear goal. From footwork to swing finish, he says each part matters when building a strong backhand drive. He thanks his sponsors Zia and the Pickler for their support.
News in Brief: Connor Garnett’s Six Steps to a Professional Backhand
Pickleball player Connor Garnett shared a six-step guide to mastering the two-handed backhand drive. His tips focus on grip, movement, body rotation, and spin. He offers easy drills and tools like Wingfield to help players improve. Garnett’s video encourages focused practice and releases new lessons twice a month.
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