Avoid These 5 Common Backhand Mistakes!

[@maciejpogorzelski9686]

Whenever I feel lost in my progress I coming back to your videos. I cannot express how helpful those are. Thank you for your time and dedication!

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you so much for your kind words. let me know if you need any advice or help.

[@ickatabg]

Started playing squash 7months ago and have been checking youtube for lessons ever since. This is the best video I've watched so far in terms of contents and delivery. Please keep on making more! I'm subscribing for sure. Will recommend to my squash buddies.

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks for your kind words. It's not as good as I wanted it to be but I know it's useful. I promise to make more videos soon, including a part two of this one.

[@independentmind1977]

This is great, we just started playing literally two days ago and had issues with the backhand, this helps immensely. I'm also considering getting some lessons locally.

[@BetterSquash]

Definitely recommend getting coached. Look around and try a few coaches. Don't commit to any long term sessions until you have explored all options. Coaches are alike any other teacher or professional - some are better than others and some are more suited to you and your circumstances, including your personality, objectives and current ability. Good Luck.

[@independentmind1977]

CoachPhillipNet I actually have a session this afternoon :)

[@BetterSquash]

Great news. Hope it works out for you.

[@tdundon2960]

Do u still play

[@n70199]

Wow. Your approach to education is unique and effective. Best video squash instruction.

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you for your kind words. I hope it has helped your game.

[@MargaritaGarcia-ll2cw]

Hi Philip, I am a beginner playing squash. Your videos have helped me very much. Thank you for sharing your talents with us

[@BetterSquash]

Hi, thank you for your support. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@Dcp0001a]

Phillip, I've commented before but I'll say it again - your videos are great! Please keep making and I'll definately keep watching. The tip about getting your non-racquet hand out of the way of your swing is I believe so fundamental and crucial, however I have not seen this really addressed as you have, elsewhere on the many various squash instruction videos or sites that exist!

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks so much for your kind words.

[@wyattlehmenkuler5849]

Great video! I've been actively working on my backhand. I can't wait to try your tips on the court. Keep up the great work!

[@BetterSquash]

Glad you like it. We should also be actively working on some aspect of our game - I wish you success in improving your backhand. Let me know how it goes.

[@N1N1__]

I started playing squash a year ago with my dad. He is playing squash for many years so I can't beat him yet. Tomorrow I play with him again and these tips will definitely help! You have a good way of explaining! Thanks for the tips!

[@BetterSquash]

Good luck against your dad. There's always an extra challenge playing a family member and experience often counts more than youth on a squash court.

[@iamjimfan]

I reviewed this and tried to apply what Phillip says in video. Extremely useful and sound advice. Thanks (Sorry for mis-spelling name of Phillip, corrected)

[@BetterSquash]

I'm pleased to hear the video has helped and don't worry at all about misspelling my name, it's not that important.

[@kbhatia76]

Amazing video, have been doing mistakes. U covered all of them.

[@BetterSquash]

I'm happy to hear you liked the video. Now the real work begins: having to replace all the bad habits with good ones! I wish you success.

[@akalpgupta3521]

Really helpful tips. Helped improve my game immensely

[@BetterSquash]

That's great to hear. Keep up the hard work!

[@agarwalarti]

Thank you! You helped so much. My backhand is kind of weak and I was trying different things to improve it. I now understand what I was missing. Thanks!

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@sunnysaini2332]

Thanks Coach for this video. I have been playing Squash for over an year and so far I didn't give imphasis to my wrist position. Now, I realized flaw in my technique and would work to correct it. I have been following your instructions and can see improvement in my game. Look forward to your upcoming videos. You are amazing !!

[@BetterSquash]

I am glad my videos have helped you. Keep working smart and hard everyday and you will be amazed at how much you can improve.

[@sunnysaini2332]

@@BetterSquash Hi Coach, Can you please suggest me some solo drills to improve my wrist position. I have been struggling to keep my wrist tight and play the shot.

[@alphavrworld7364]

Really really nice squash learning channel.

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks so much!

[@ashleyhui5829]

Love your videos and I'm glad to see you're back! Your videos always help me out a lot. Thank you for everything :)

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks. Hope they have helped your game.

[@ashleyhui5829]

They really have!

[@threethrushes]

Very good tips. I've had a squash coach for a few months now and none of these points have been noted...

[@BetterSquash]

I can't comment on exactly why your coach has chosen not to address these points and there could be a good reason. Are you improving working with the coach? If you are, that's what really matters.

[@threethrushes]

Thanks for the reply; I am improving, however I'd say that a good coach (like you) would probably have stated these kinds of tips rather than spend hundreds of racket swings in a trial and error process (which is what it seems like to me).

[@AVINASHKUMAR-cz9sm]

nicely explained, helped a lot to improve my backhand and the overall game also

[@BetterSquash]

Great. Keep working hard.

[@OpasBaba]

Some good lessons there, will have to watch out for these while playing. Thanks.

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks, I hope they help.

[@alia.2345]

You're a great teacher! Excellent video. I recommended your channels to alot of my squash buddies. Love your work and game

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you for your kind words and for recommending my channel to others.

[@rothotborski]

Great video really on the point...1,4,5 are not just backhand but common errors...you will immediately get better if you avoid them

[@BetterSquash]

I'm glad you like the video. I agree that some points apply to other areas of the court but just wanted to highlight the areas in relation to backhands in this video.

[@rothotborski]

@@BetterSquash Every point you mentioned is just an so important basic skill, you never can stress them too much....for sure it's much easier to play an let's say acceptable forehand with bad technique (how i did for lots of years) than a good quality backhand. I had to spend much more work on my backhand but finally it got more precise than my forehand

[@jodymedland8737]

Good tips, my man. Gonna try them out this afternoon.

[@BetterSquash]

Did they help?

[@jodymedland8737]

@@BetterSquash They did. I actually wasn't aware of how often I took my eyes off the ball until the session after your video, so I'm consciously trying to cut it out of my game now. I have another match this evening, so let's see how that goes!

[@trueheart9439]

As a beginner I would like to take my squash further. Your advice is helping me a lot!

[@BetterSquash]

It's so nice to hear you say that, thank you.

[@BetterSquash]

I'm glad to hear it. Please let me know if you have any questions.

[@trueheart9439]

Lol shes not a beginner shes my sis and a pro at it IM the beginner but I played pros Ur helping me not her :D

[@BetterSquash]

I have no idea what you are referring to. I haven't mentioned a female in any of my replies.

[@ssaw3008]

amazing explanation , this was very helpfull, thanks

[@BetterSquash]

I am so glad it was helpful and I am SO sorry for the sound quality.

[@sashaevdokimova6086]

Thank you for your greatvideo! Tomorrow i will practice it.

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. I hope one of the points help.

[@networkn]

I wanted to say how awesome I found this video. Thank you so much. I've subscribed and liked!

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you.

[@PhilippedeHerte]

Good tips; Federer is very good at watching the ball hit the strings and keeping his head down. Thanks. Do you have a video on the backhand return?

[@BetterSquash]

Glad you like it. No, I currently don't have a backhand service return video, but it is on the list of planned videos.

[@skyhigh404]

Thanks. Really helpful.. Off to practice them now. 😊😊

[@BetterSquash]

Glad you like it. Let me know if they helped (although I am sure they have).

[@juanalejandrobuasso8892]

Okay ... Thats what my coach shouts me about every day jaja! I have to improve 3 of those 5 mistakes ... Glad to see i’m not the only one making them ..: Nice video

[@BetterSquash]

No, you are definitely not the only one making them. Select one mistake and focus on that. When you feel you have improved, selected another one. Don't feel that you have to perfect each point before you move onto the next one. Just don't try to improve them all at the same time.

[@juanalejandrobuasso8892]

Squash Coach Phillip thanks for the advice!

[@santino4561]

Helpful video. The last point made me laugh though, it looks funny. I probably do it all the time

[@BetterSquash]

Glad it helped. We all do a little bit of each one when we first start.

[@ISIrfactor]

Great Video. Helped improved my game. Thank you Coach Philip.

[@BetterSquash]

Hi Philip, glad I could help.

[@Vortklox]

This is exelent. Thank you. I think I do all of these things. Hopefully I can stop them now I know.

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. Sorry to hear you possibly do all of them. Focus on one aspect at a time because it will be impossible to try to correct them all at the same time.

[@Vortklox]

@@BetterSquash Thanks Phillip. Great advice. I think I'll concentrate on not breaking the wrist to start as I do that a lot.

[@maniacworld123]

great video. thanks coach

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@HotSoup55]

Greetings from Uganda. These are great tips and ones that everyone should be working on all the time. Very, very hard to implement though. Also, they are not specifically backhand tips, but general squash tips... BTW, love you in Shaun of the Dead :-)

[@BetterSquash]

I#m glad you enjoyed it. I don't claim that they are all specifically bachand but they are the most common mistakes made by players on their backhand. I'm sorry, I don't understand the reference to "Shaun of the Dead" as I haven't seen it.

[@kuraiskurahim9061]

Coach Philip, I have difficulties retrieving the fore hand cross court and taking space for back hand drive. I hope in your next videos you can show me the the correct techniques and practices that can help me to improve my performance. Thank you :)

[@BetterSquash]

Hi kurais, It's impossible for me to tell you what to do from your description, but often club players don't watch their opponent when the opponent hits the ball and this means that your are possibly staring at the front wall. This gives you less time to react.

[@kevinconstantine5244]

Brilliant advice thanks coach phil

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you. I hope it helps. In fact, let me know if it does or has.

[@pierreleger3834]

very clear video , great

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you. I am glad you liked it.

[@MasteredGaming]

Great stuff, excited to try this out soon!

[@BetterSquash]

Great. I bet they worked.

[@Meeshu40]

Love your videos you are doing a great service to this game

[@BetterSquash]

Glad you like my videos.

[@craiggers3300]

Great tips! Thank you. It is good to see how to execute the stroke correctly. It is better starting off starting with a good technique than having to unlearn bad habits. Maybe you could do the same with the forehand? (That is the right way to hit the forehand.)

[@BetterSquash]

Hi Craig, good to hear they were useful. I did plan to make a forehand version, but there was always something else to do.

[@ameenu]

You just make my day 😃 Thank you very much

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@networkn]

I'd love to see a similar video or a technical video on how to improve my drop shots.

[@BetterSquash]

I will be making drop shot videos but can't tell you exactly when. Until then, might I suggest my Introduction to Touch video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3TKnaFro7hnebM

[@2007djpill]

I found the demonstrations and explanations clear to follow and look forward to implementing this into my games. I know these are your top 5, but are there more pieces of advice and mistakes you could coach? I find that I am really weak on my reverse, perhaps it is my body posture and foot work. Any advice?

[@BetterSquash]

I'm happy you found it useful. It's hard to know what to recommend as these are by far the most common and important points. However, try not to get too close to the ball. Try not to hit it too far in front of you. Try to twist the shoulders around before you hit the ball, but don't try to force them. Actually, now that I type this, I might make a part two of the video. Thanks for the idea.

[@2007djpill]

Thank you for the response. I look forward to a part 2!!

[@kaustubhdatta8162]

this is really of a great help!! Thank you

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. Let me know if you improve.

[@kaustubhdatta8162]

CoachPhillipNet I will pls keep adding more videos . request you to add one on service styles

[@renemoerman6486]

Great tips mate! thank you so much!

[@BetterSquash]

Sorry for the delay in replying. You are most welcome, I am glad you like them.

[@sebastianohnemuller6008]

Really good one !

[@BetterSquash]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@tobyouvry12345]

Hey Phillip, Thanks very much for this, I'm thinking all 5 basic corrections would be the same on the forehand side, would this be correct?

[@BetterSquash]

Hi Toby, well besides the non-hitting hand, the others do apply. At some point, I hope to make the forehand version, but it's not on the top of my list.

[@tobyouvry12345]

@@BetterSquash many thanks! The inferential benefit Igor the forehand os already there in this video. Thanks again ✌️☀️

[@dylanwheatley6032]

Really helpful thank you mate!

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. Which was the most useful tip for you?

[@jackw6617]

I found that number 5 was the hardest to break but when I started moving back to the T sooner it really helped my game. Number 3 is what I've been working on recently and am going to try some solo hitting with my hand behind my back! Thanks for the videos! And merry crimbo

[@BetterSquash]

Yeah, there is no one issue that everybody struggles with. Some players I have taught can make one change almost immediately and then another easier change takes weeks. Please let me know how you find the practice with your arm behind you back.

[@jackw6617]

CoachPhillipNet it has been ok but it is different as it effects your movement in and out of the shot. when you are standing just behind the service line hitting length it's fine and good to focus on technique especially rotating forearm instead of flicking (which I still struggle with) as your not in the way of yourself but when you start to step in to the ball so you can move back I found it a bit awkward/took a bit of getting used to. have a match tomorrow so will see how my technique is and how long it lasts when I'm knackered

[@BetterSquash]

Well, I wouldn't recommend keeping your hand behind you back in a match, as because you say, it affects your movement. For now, only do it in practice until it feels completely natural.

[@jackw6617]

no, definitely won't be playing with my hand behind my back in a match!

[@alanlin2780]

Viewers should rewatch the video multiple times and pay close attention to the hilarious caption as well

[@BetterSquash]

I agree with the multiple watch and the autogenerated captions have been noted. I plan to update this whole video this year and have been lazy in correcting them. I almost want to leave them for the comedic value.

[@alanlin2780]

I’d say leave them for the comedic value

[@robleisner6141]

Just came across this and thought I'd take a look. Have been a club coach for 15 years now and I would agree with all of this, so excellent jump putting this together in a clear and digestible manner. I know some coaches might frown on the language at times (some people feel you can't tell someone NOT to do something as it is problem-focused rather than solution-driven) but personally I think it gives people a clearer picture of behaviour that is negatively impacting quality stroke production. If I might add, another thing I've found to be a problem with the backhand (and, indeed, the forehand as well) is crowding the ball. This seems to be more common in people new to racket sports. My belief is that this is the result of the brain being used to interacting with objects at arm's reach - opening a door, picking up something, turning something on - and so instinctively moves the body to the same distance. What happens then is that you adapt your swing to compensate - using a "cricket" swing or breaking the wrist being the most common. The other thing I've found is that people can quite often correct the wrist breaking when "ghosting" (swinging without the ball) but as soon as you add the ball and their attention shifts from technique to target (the ball), their wrist breaks again. It re-asserts the moment they commit to swinging at the ball. Frustrating! 😄 Anyway, great video, and I look forward to watching your others. Keep up the good work! 👏👏👍

[@BetterSquash]

It's always pleasing to hear from other coaches that they like my videos. It's true that a solution-driven style is often the best approach but research shows that for my target audience's age, they respond better to warnings than other ages groups. I also feel that one-style of presentation is not suitable for all situations and often people like to be told what not to do. There is also the point to consider that people watch and absorb information differently via videos, especially YT videos, than in one-to-one situations. Anyway, again, thanks for your kind words. I hope you enjoy some of my other videos. Where do you coach? If it's in the UK, have we ever crossed paths?

[@robleisner6141]

@@BetterSquash I'm based in Sydney Aust, so I doubt we have crossed paths. I agree re tailoring your education style to the user. It has been the most challenging part of coaching for me. At one point I was confident to the point of arrogance in my knowledge and thought the ability to analyse and problem solve was the sign of a great coach. But then I came to learn that the ability to teach so that everyone you coach is given the best chance to improve and enjoy the game, that's what makes a great coach, and so I am in the process of trying to re-invent myself as a coach. Videos such as this are a great help to coaches like myself as they provide validation and reinforcement.

[@IbadAFulaylee]

As everyone seems to agree, very handy compilation CoachPhilipNet so thank you. Regarding #4 & #5, should I not be just following forward towards the wall (& then stepping to the 'T') after hitting instead of stepping back? I was told that's the way to carry your body weight into the shot? I have seen it work for me as well. Thanks ~ Ibad.

[@BetterSquash]

Yes, I want to you to carry your weight into the shot but not beyond. The reality is that 99.99% you will be moving away from the T to hit the ball, so you won't simply carrying on moving towards the T. Of course, at lower levels the ball can sometimes be in the middle but the better you get, that's less likely.

[@nomudesu1155]

great tips! Will get to it in 2017!

[@BetterSquash]

Great. I hope 2017 is your best squash year ever.

[@nomudesu1155]

Thanks! Nice that you replied!

[@soaptotallyveg8493]

Very useful, thank you.

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@BlackHistoryMonthSpeaker]

Thanks Phil. I'm not bad but I have been breaking my wrist forever and wondered why I can never get the accuracy and control I need. I've spent a few months trying to correct and started getting results. This video is the one I'll be returning to check my technique as there's still work to do.

[@BetterSquash]

Hi Paul, yes, it can be tough changing technique after doing it one way for years. I'm glad to hear you have been persevering - it's worth the hard work in the end!

[@GIsaacs]

Absolute awesome thank you

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. Sorry about the bad sound.

[@MrTonyCamonte]

Great video! Thank you for your work!

[@BetterSquash]

Glad you liked it.

[@floydthebarber71]

Awesome tips for a lower level player like me. I really find I'm struggling to return serves on the backhand where my opponent serves high and close to the wall. High backhand returns just do me in. And it's hard to do a drill to address this because I'm so inconsistent, so I just keep screwing it up when the time comes. Practice, I guess...

[@jesieniar]

I've got the same problem. They're killing me with those high serves on my backhand because the best i can do is to respond with a cross-court.

[@Dcp0001a]

floydthebarber71 it is possible to practice this solo, by hitting high lobs to yourself down the backhand wall. I guess the first thing will be to get some consistency hitting those lobs. Then consistency returning them ;)

[@BetterSquash]

@ floydthebarber71 Practicing return of serves alone can be hard, but simply trying to hit high, deep volleys back to yourself will really help you. If you can't do them all the way from the back, move closer to the front wall until you can do them. Over time, you will be able to move further away from the front wall and keep the control. @GeedieZ I know exactly what you mean and it's of course impossible for me to diagnose your shot but try turning your shoulders around more - almost as if you wanted your back to be facing the front wall or at least the opponent. @dcp0001a Good advice.

[@BetterSquash]

Practicing return of serves alone can be hard, but simply trying to hit high, deep volleys back to yourself will really help you. If you can't do them all the way from the back, move closer to the front wall until you can do them. Over time, you will be able to move further away from the front wall and keep the control.

[@AlexandrPeklo]

Really Great and helpful, thank you from Russia!)

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@darraghmcconville]

Great video again. More, please.

[@BetterSquash]

I'll do my best to make about 50 videos this year.

[@tellme1948]

Thank´s for your Tip´s..!

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. let me know if it helps you improve.

[@jungholee3793]

I agree with every point less than the usage of the wrist because you can break your wrist to hit the ball flat rather with an open racket face. i think the turn of the shoulder is essential to explain the backhand swing. Regards!!!

[@BetterSquash]

You can hit the play flat without breaking your wrist during the swing. Remember, I am trying to help beginners and getting habits correct at the beginning can save a lot of effort later on. With regard to the shoulder, I agree, it is important for a great backhand swing, but again, this video was about highlighting the most common mistakes beginners make when hitting backhands. Developing a shoulder turn comes after correcting these issues.

[@ReviewSmartTech]

Best training so far...

[@BetterSquash]

Looking forward to hearing how hard you worked and how much you improved!

[@OlivierKAMEL]

Super video!

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you very much!

[@hannahzhang7849]

Really good !!!!!

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks!!

[@01sevensix]

Great video. Cheers pal.

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. I hope it improved your squash.

[@abelha_raquetes]

Great video!!!

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you.

[@peterk7754]

Good advice for A grade players as well

[@BetterSquash]

I'd hate to think that grade A players do any of these, but you never know.

[@rbaddict2947]

Great way to injure your wrist is to snap your wrist on the backhand, This goes for any racquet sport (Tennis, racquetball, squash, etc). Your wrist isn't meant to break backwards repeatedly w/ force.

[@BetterSquash]

Agreed.

[@eugenejefferson1838]

RBAddict it's how it's taught in badminton...

[@agustingambaretto2260]

awesome. thanks for the tips.

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome.

[@jeremythomas4587]

Thanks, that was v helpful.

[@BetterSquash]

Glad i could help.

[@IALTOFFICIAL]

Great mate keep these up

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks.

[@kyoodi]

That's so helpful for me. But I have 1 question I'm sorry but I can't understand rule 5. What's benefits rule 5 instead staring?

[@BetterSquash]

I am glad it is helpful. Watching the ball after you hit it often means that players forget to get to the T. It's almost as if they are hypnotised by the ball. "Try to think "Hit and Move!"

[@kyoodi]

@@BetterSquash Thank you so much. I play squash in univ and I teach some beginner student. Thanks to your kindly explanation, I can teach more simple. very useful!!

[@BetterSquash]

You are most welcome. Please let me know if there are any types of videos you would like to see.

[@carlrennie1141]

followthru momentum bring one out of the shot is a glorious thing

[@BetterSquash]

It is and so rarely done at club level.

[@rogerundersail2738]

ahah I make all 5 mistakes! thank you for the video, I will work on it

[@BetterSquash]

Oh Dear! Maybe I should have used you for the demonstration. ANyway, good luck improving. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@ronitkaushik4634]

Hughie's dad got some best lessons in squash

[@BetterSquash]

I'm not sure who Hughie is, but hopefully you benefitted from the video.

[@ashleyhui5829]

Hi Phillip (Phil? which do you prefer?), I was wondering if you could help me with a problem I am having. I noticed that I don't watch the ball hit the strings, but even when I try to do so, I don't see the ball come off the strings. It's just a blur and then the ball is at the front wall. I hope that made sense and do you have any tips for me in order for me to watch the ball come off of my strings?

[@BetterSquash]

Hi Ashley, I suspect that you are trying to keep sight of the ball at all times, which is very difficult or even impossible. Watching the ball hit your strings mean that for a fraction of a second you will lost sight of the ball, but that's okay. What you will see is the blur of the racket as you swing and the blur of the ball as it comes towards your racket, hit the strings and then move forward. Don't expect to be able to have a "photo" like view. It will be blurred, but if you see that then it probably means you are keeping your head still and that is almost as important as watching the ball. Remember, you will know where you hit the ball (or at least your should!) so it's more important to transfer you attention to your opponent after you hit the ball. I would recommend two of my videos. Preparing for success, which talks about watching the ball: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6Lcdop6oLllZtk and Sides to sides, which allows you to practice watching the ball in a very controlled way: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXuqqIinlM90hZY I hope that helps.

[@alanoneill9961]

Cheer's great spot 😊

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks, I hope they helped.

[@hamzatatta952]

hi Phil I hope you gd, i saw the link about squash shoes , Adidas fits me very well , but what other make in the hand Ball badminton has a close fit to Adidas stabil

[@BetterSquash]

Sorry, but I don't really know much about the current range of shoes.

[@_ianonymous_1726]

What tips would you give to someone like me that has the Mazen Hesham type of backhand and is trying to figure out how to make it work like he does??

[@BetterSquash]

I don't follow squash any more and had to search for who Mazen Hesham was. He has amazing touch. Firstly, if I could make your backhand work like his does via a KZbin comment I would be A: rich and B: the best coach in the world! Unfortunately I am neither. Without seeing your swing It's impossible to say what you need to do. What I CAN say is that watching his swing, even for just a few minutes, it requires incredible timing. Perhaps you need to start swing a fraction of a moment earlier to give yourself the option of speeding up or slowing down depending on the ball's speed. Or perhaps you should keep your swing a little simpler until you feel you have mastered the timing. Honestly, I'm not sure. Copying a professional's swing is not a bad thing but some swings are more individual than others.

[@DavidStephens]

Watched this and thought "hmmm...I do all five". Have a court booked on Monday to practise some drills on my own!

[@BetterSquash]

Glad to hear you are motivated to improve. Try to focus on no more than one thing at a time. You won't be able to replace all 5 bad habits in one session, but you can try them all out and decide which one is the most important for you and focus on that for the next 10 times you play. Good luck and let me know how you get on on Monday and if you have any questions.

[@davidmurillo1086]

I'm a beginner and I've realized that I'm missing most of my backhand serves, any tips?

[@BetterSquash]

Well, it depends on whether you mean serves or returns. SERVES: Keep you non-hitting hand under the racket. and away from the swing. Of course, you have to use it to throw the ball, but move it back quickly. Next, practice a shorter swing to ensure you are throwing the ball accurately. It's easy to forget that throwing the ball with your non-dominate hand can take some getting used to, so start by focusing on that. Once you have the throw working, increase the swing speed/size until you are hitting the ball cleanly. Ami high, but don't try to hit the ball too hard. RETURNS: The biggest mistake new players do is trying to sue a big swing and hit the ball hard. Often times, a short swing (a block really) is enough to hit a good return. Better to hit the ball cleanly but not very deep than to try to hit it hard and not hit it. The racket should finish high, not down by your knees. Don't be afraid of the side wall. If you are worried about breaking your racket against it, then your swing is too big. Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any other questions.

[@davidmurillo1086]

@@BetterSquash Yes, I meant serves, thank you for the tips!!

[@hamster1966430]

How do you use your follow through to move back to the tee when you have to stay still during the shot? Ie the first mistake demonstrated.

[@BetterSquash]

You just need to be still for the moment of impact. The follow through of the swing will then provide momentum to begin the movement back to the T. It might not be moving directly towards the T, but the follow through will allow you to step away from the ball and at least provide some movement. What I was trying to stress was that you don't want to get stuck watching the ball without moving. I would also like to point out that my demonstrations are very artificial because I am trying to highlight one particular area. In the context of a real point, everything happens much faster. I would suggest watching some pros but don't watch the ball, focus on one player and notice how quickly they move after they have hit the ball.

[@hamster1966430]

CoachPhillipNet: Thank you. It's a dilemma of trying to make each broken down element of a swing add up to the "full part" that of following through, staying in the shot, watching the ball on the strings and moving back to the tee. Any recommendation for a solo drill? Thanks for taking time to respond. Really informative stuff and well explained.

[@kyoodi]

01:00 1번. 스트링에 공 맞는거 보기 02:10 2번. 손목 안꺾이게 스윙. 손목이 꺾이지 않아야 라켓이 장력을 충분히 이뤄 공이 쉽게 튀긴다(03:29) 02:56 손목 안꺾이는 백핸드스윙 예시 06:13 3번. 반대손을 나비모양처럼 펼치자. 균형도 잡고 스윙하는 팔의 궤도 방해X 07:10 4번. 다리 움직이면서 스윙하지말자. 라켓궤도가 변형되어 임팩트 맞추기 힘듦, 또한 파워전달 100% 안됨 08:19 5번. 치고 제자리로 돌아오면서 공 궤적을 보자. 공 응시에만 집중하면 T존으로 돌아가지않고 공 보는 것에 정신이 팔리게 된다.

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you for summarising in Korean for other viewers.

[@navindjoonucksingh5502]

Philipp u look so good 😊

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you.

[@olliehall1262]

I’m a 1 and 5 all day!

[@BetterSquash]

It's good you recognise yourself. Now you should begin to address one point at a time.

[@keeloraz9452]

All of these apply to me.

[@BetterSquash]

Well, hopefully, you will soon be able to say "All of these *USED* to apply to me". Let me know if you need any help or have questions.

[@iamjimfan]

436K views. Spectacular!

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you. It's a reminder that content is more important than production value (as long as the video is understandable). I'll be creating an updated version of this video later this year.

[@BetterSquash]

Thank you. The topic really seems to be popular. I hope to produce an updated version this season.

[@JMUDoc]

Coming from badminton I can tell you that not breaking the wrist is... almost impossible without CONSTANT drilling. I'll frequently go in and hit an hour of backhands just to unlearn it!

[@BetterSquash]

Well, you are coming from a sport where the wrist, not so much forearm, is king. I hope you eventually begin to feel comfortable with a firmer wrist.

[@JMUDoc]

@@BetterSquash My squash technique is very "cutty" at the moment, even with power, just to force me to keep the same wrist orientation. What's going through my head on the shot is "start by showing the butt logo to the floor, finish by showing it the audience". Played my regular partner yesterday and the difference was astonishing - I've already got him easily on fitness, and the gap is closing on technique ;).

[@paulgould3267]

Please do forehand mistake video

[@BetterSquash]

It's on the list, but I don't know when I will make it.

[@rudyjohari7338]

For number 2, the breaking of the wrist, I really need help as whenever I try to use shoulder rotation, the moment I turn back, my wrist breaks and it hits the ball with a rather closed face. Please help as I really want to improve :(

[@BetterSquash]

Sorry for the delay. The best way to improve technique is to start without the ball. If you have to worry about hitting the ball, you will always compromise your technique. Do it slowly and carefully, even in front of a mirror and then move on to faster and faster. Then get on court alone and use a red dot ball and practice.

[@courtneyfarmer4735]

or look in the opposite direction when hitting straight drive or hitting crosscourt deceptive

[@BetterSquash]

Certainly not something I would recommend until you can hit great backhand shots. It is done, but less often at pro level than club - a bit like the reverse angle.

[@courtneyfarmer4735]

@@BetterSquash yea haha reverse angle ie the taxi boast

[@carlrennie1141]

whoa, never seen that ball bouncing on racket demonstration

[@BetterSquash]

Now you have. I hope it helped you understand why we shouldn't be twisting the racket head upon impact, although pros can because they are SO much stronger than club players.

[@MONSTERAMONGMEN]

Awesome

[@BetterSquash]

Thanks.

[@centerlane1015]

Breaking the wrist is proper mechanics in the sport of racquetball. Of course the racquet is shorter and the ball is much more lively, but the reason this does not cause stability issues is because the grip is supinated. I wonder if any professional squash players ever utilized a supinated backhand grip....? The result would be much great head speed and velocity on the ball....

[@BetterSquash]

I don't know much about racketball (Squash57 in the UK, although it is a slightly different game), but find it hard to believe you are supposed to break your wrist. A supinated grip is more common amongst beginners in squash. The most consistent motion uses the forearam rotation rathar than a snap of the wrist which changes the angle of the racket head. There may be a small increase in the racket head speed (but I am not convinced about that) but more chance of injury.

[@zohaibasif6274]

*Fooive*

[@BetterSquash]

That's right.

[@bradsmith6152]

in scene 2 you need more follow through, your just using the wrist but you need to use the body and the shoulder to generate the good swing with the follow through. just using the wrist like that wont get you to a decent standard

[@BetterSquash]

I was isolating the motion that is incorrect and focusing on correcting that. I avoided putting it into a full swing so that the viewer could concentrate on the specifics of the wrist not breaking.

[@salmannasir3353]

LOL,I often do the same mistake but the problem with me is i can't open my hand free while hitting the shot I tried but I couldn't and my coach is also not happy with that

[@BetterSquash]

What do you mean by "Open my free hand"?

[@salmannasir3353]

CoachPhillipNet No#3 when i play back hand shot my left hand automatically sticks to my chest .

[@BetterSquash]

In that case, let me suggest practicing your swing in slow motion without the ball. Do 30 everyday.

[@salmannasir3353]

CoachPhillipNet i will do that thank you 👍

[@huntrichardson]

Often players with poor swing or movement techniques focus on the ball to the exclusion of everything else. The ball distracts them from learning what to do with their arms and legs. Better first to focus on the method than the outcome!

[@BetterSquash]

Yes, I agree. I used to work on many things before hitting the ball with juniors, but of course, everybody, young and old, like to hit.

[@huntrichardson]

I get students to focus on their arms and legs while looking at the ball. it aint easy for most, but I find it's quicker path to learning and the technique sticks longer. trying to change ossified bad technique is hardest of all

[@BetterSquash]

Graham Stevenson and I used to do the "pose off" at the SOuth East Regional Junior weekends, where each player had to ghost with perfect style and we would pick the best based o how they moved and swung. It was fun but also reinforced that great technique should be attempted at all times.

[@huntrichardson]

That's an excellent method to reinforce technique. Little more challenging when giving a private lesson. Videos help people see themselves. I have done this with my golf swing and it's funny how I think I am doing something and I'm not!

[@omerfar]

Like it but the audio is killing it

[@BetterSquash]

Yeah, sound has been a serious issue for me.

[@uwepietsch3877]

pls. wear a small micro during the courts explanations. This will help a lot to keep the echo off. The OFF comments are great. Thx. ;) P.S: or a better mircro of the cam with echo canceling ?

[@BetterSquash]

I have ordered a digital voice recorder and lapel mic.