Want to add more offense to your game? The backhand flick is a true difference-maker.

This aggressive shot is taken out of the air, usually at the kitchen line, and lets you speed up a dink while cutting down your opponent’s reaction time.

Pro player Ava Ignatowich recently broke down exactly how to execute this advanced shot and how to practice it to make it a reliable weapon.

Step 1: Use a comfortable grip

There’s no one “perfect” grip. While some players lean toward continental, others prefer a slightly more eastern grip for a more open paddle face.

An open paddle face helps you generate lift and control, especially if you’re relying more on wrist action than raw strength.

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Step 2: Focus on wrist action, not spin

Many players overcomplicate the flick by trying to add spin. In reality, the motion is much simpler.

Think of it as:

• - A quick wrist snap forward
• - A “flick slap” motion
• - Like throwing a Frisbee, or even swatting something in front of you

The goal isn’t spin, it’s a clean, quick pop.

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Step 3: Get low and reach forward

Proper body positioning is critical:

• - Stay low with your legs
• - Keep your weight forward at the kitchen line
• - Reach out in front of your body

From there, drop your paddle under the ball and flick upward in one smooth motion.

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Step 4: Pop the ball, don’t roll it

A common mistake is “rolling” the ball with too much follow-through.

Instead:

• - Keep it compact
• - Snap your wrist
• - Pop the ball upward toward your opponent’s chest or shoulders

It doesn’t need to be fast, just quick and well-placed.

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Step 5: Hug the kitchen line

Positioning matters just as much as technique.

Stay tight to the kitchen line with minimal movement:

• - Small lateral steps only
• - Avoid drifting backward during dink rallies

Taking the ball early is what makes the flick so effective.

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Step 6: Disguise the shot

If you only flick every ball you take out of the air, opponents will anticipate it.

Mix in:

• - Backhand dinks out of the air
• - Occasional flicks

This keeps your opponents guessing and makes your offense far more effective.

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The backhand flick improves with repetition, not perfection.

Miss shots. Try difficult balls. Experiment with different contact points. The more reps you get, the more natural the motion will feel.

At its core, it’s a simple motion:

• - Get low
• - Reach forward
• - Snap your wrist
• - Pop the ball

Master this shot, and you’ll instantly add a new layer of offense to your game.