Backhand Dink in Pickleball: Common Mistakes

Mastering the Backhand Dink in Pickleball: Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Ever found yourself in the heat of a pickleball match, only to have your backhand dink let you down at the crucial moment? You’re not alone. The backhand dink is a pivotal shot in pickleball, and mastering it can be the key to reaching new heights in your game. Let’s dive into the common mistakes players make and how to turn your backhand dink into a reliable, offensive tool that opponents will avoid targeting.

Why the Backhand Dink Is So Crucial

For many pickleball players, the backhand dink isn’t just another shot, it’s a weapon. It’s the kind of move that can shift momentum, keep opponents on their toes, and open up opportunities for offensive plays. Without a solid backhand dink, players often find themselves on the defensive, struggling to keep up with the pace of the game.

Common Mistake #1: Cutting the Ball Too Much

One of the most frequent errors is taking a huge high to low swing to create spin, trying to slice the ball excessively. This big cutting motion often causes the ball to pop up too high, making it an easy target for opponents to attack. I’ve been there myself, thinking that more spin equals a better shot, only to watch the ball soar higher than intended.

Solution: Swing with an Open Paddle Face

Instead of that exaggerated slicing motion, focus on swinging with an open paddle face. Start your swing straight behind the ball and move in a straight line toward your target. You’ll still get enough slice with an open paddle face, but it keeps the ball lower and more controlled. This results in a shorter, lower ball that stays in the kitchen area, reducing the risk of getting attacked.

Common Mistake #2: Bending the Elbow and Chopping the Ball

Another common pitfall is bending the elbow and chopping at the ball, which leads to inconsistent shots and pop ups. This mistake is often related to the first one, when players try to cut the ball too much, they naturally bend the elbow and chop, losing control in the process.

Solution: Keep Your Elbow Straight and Swing from the Shoulder

To correct this, keep your elbow straight throughout the entire shot, from setup to follow-through. The swing should come from the shoulder, not the elbow. A straight elbow helps in maintaining control, whether you’re hitting a roll, slice, or flat dink. This small adjustment can make a big difference in your consistency.

Common Mistake #3: Incorrect Wrist Position

Many players start with a neutral wrist position, leading to rolling over the ball or flicking at it, which causes inconsistencies. I remember struggling with this myself, wondering why my shots lacked control and often went astray.

Solution: Bend Your Wrist Back and Up

Bend your wrist back and up in the starting position. This allows you to get under the ball and lift it instead of rolling over it. Maintain this wrist position throughout the entire swing, avoiding any flicking motion. Focus on a stable, controlled swing rather than acceleration, which often results in pop-ups. Keeping the paddle tip above the wrist level ensures better control and consistency.

Common Mistake #4: Not Moving Your Feet

Reaching for the ball instead of moving your feet to get behind it is a mistake that leads to off balance shots, flicking, slicing, or chopping. It’s tempting to rely on your arms, but doing so can throw off your entire game.

Solution: Use Your Feet to Get Behind the Ball

Use your feet to move side to side and get your body behind the ball. Aim to hit the ball at your ideal contact point, which is typically just inside your outside foot. Maintain a low stance while moving, similar to a crab walk, to stay balanced and consistent. Here’s a drill to help: try catching the ball in front of your ideal contact point without a paddle. This helps ingrain the habit of moving to the correct position before hitting the ball.

Common Mistake #5: Not Using Your Legs to Get Low

Standing too upright when hitting dinks prevents players from getting under the ball properly, leading to misses or hitting into the net. I can’t count how many times I’ve seen players, including myself, miss shots because we didn’t get low enough.

Solution: Bend Your Knees, Not Your Back

Bend your knees to get down to the level of the ball rather than bending your back, which throws off balance. Keeping a deep knee bend allows the paddle face to stay open and under the ball, ensuring a smooth lift. Think of it like sitting into the shot; this helps maintain stability and control.

Bonus Tip: The Two Handed Backhand Dink

For advanced players looking to enhance their offensive play, adding a consistent two handed backhand dink can be a game enhancer. However, many make the mistake of coming over the top of the ball, trying to force topspin, which decreases the effectiveness of the shot.

Solution: Swing Up from Underneath the Ball

Instead of rolling over the ball, come from underneath and swing up the back of the ball with the paddle face open toward your target. The follow through should go up to your shoulder to maintain spin and control. This technique keeps the ball low and makes it harder for opponents to predict your shots.

Key Takeaways to Improve Your Backhand Dink

• Avoid cutting the ball with a high to low swing.
• Keep your elbow straight and swing from the shoulder.
• Bend your wrist back and up, and avoid flicking.
• Use your feet to get behind the ball rather than reaching for it.
• Bend your knees to get low and under the ball, rather than bending your back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I practice my backhand dink at home?

A: Practicing your backhand dink at home can be as simple as hitting the ball against a wall or using a rebounder. Focus on maintaining a straight elbow, proper wrist position, and swinging from the shoulder. Visualization and shadow swings can also help ingrain the correct form.

Q: What’s the ideal contact point for a backhand dink?

A: The ideal contact point is typically just inside your outside foot. This position allows for optimal control and balance, helping you execute the shot more effectively.

Q: Should I use a two handed backhand dink?

A: A two-handed backhand dink can be beneficial for players looking to add variety to their game. It offers additional power and control but requires proper technique to be effective. Practice swinging up from underneath the ball and maintain an open paddle face toward your target.

Elevate Your Game with a Better Backhand Dink

By addressing these common mistakes and implementing the solutions provided, you can transform your backhand dink into a reliable shot that opponents will hesitate to target. Remember, consistency comes from proper technique and practice. So get out there, apply these tips, and watch your pickleball game reach new levels!