A New Teaching Method
Forehand: Preparation Part 2
The Backswing

John Yandell

No two pro backswings are alike. This is also true at all other levels. But are there general guidelines you should follow? A few years back I analyzed the current top players and the differences and the commonalities in their backswings. I decided that Andre Agassi was probably the best model. (Click Here).

Today we have the research of Dr. Brian Gordon which has taken the understanding of the biomechanics of the game to new levels. This article is indebted to his insights, as well as to Rick Macci who has developed a teaching methodology of his own based on his work with Brian. Turns out my intuition about Agassi was probably correct. Brian has analyzed the core biomechanics and developed the concept of the ATP backswing, with Roger Federer as the ideal example. Federer’s backswing, like Andre’s, is compact with the hand and racket staying on the hitting side but with some very specific additional positioning. There are compelling reasons why this backswing is not only more compact and but actually more powerful.

In this article I look at the current modern variations in high speed footage, including Federer, and present checkpoints and drills derived from Brian’s work. The model is not completely rigid or absolute. Within certain parameters there is a range of options that I feel can work for players at various levels. See what they are. Then let us know what you think in the Forum!