The ultimate guide to padel strokes

Learn the best techniques and improve your game

Do you want to become a better padel player? Then it is important to master the different strokes in padel. Each stroke requires a different technique and application depending on the situation on the court. Using the right stroke at the right time will give you more control over the game and force your opponents into a defensive position. In this article we will discuss the most commonly used strokes in padel and give you tips on how to improve them.

Why is mastering different strokes important?

Padel is a dynamic sport where one situation can quickly turn into another. To properly anticipate your opponent's play, you must be flexible in your choice of strokes. Each player has their own preferences, but by trying out different strokes, you can discover which ones best suit your game. Moreover, it helps you identify your weaknesses so you can improve them. Below is an overview of the main strokes in padel, with a detailed description of their technique and application.

Volley

The volley is one of the most commonly used strokes in padel and is played before the ball hits the ground. It is an offensive stroke often executed close to the net. A good volley forces the opponent to react quickly because the ball is put right back into play. The goal is to play the ball low and fast over the net so that the opponent has trouble returning the ball.

Technique:

• Hold the racket high and your body in an aggressive, forward position.
• Play the ball with a short, controlled motion and avoid big strokes to maintain control.
• Try to position the ball toward the corners to force the opponent to move more.

Vibora

The vibora is an advanced stroke, midway between a smash and a slice. This stroke gives the ball a sideways spin, making it difficult for the opponent to return the ball properly. The vibora is usually played from an attacking position and can have a surprising effect on the opponent.

Technology:

• Position yourself diagonally behind the ball and use a side swing.
• Make sure to use good wrist movement to give the ball a slice.
• Direct the ball toward the side wall to put even more pressure on the opponent.

Smash

The smash is one of the most powerful strokes in padel. This stroke is executed overhead and aims to hit the ball to the ground with great speed. A well-executed smash can lead to a point or a very tricky situation for the opponent.

Technology:

• Position yourself well under the ball before you hit.
• Hold your racket high and hit with a powerful, downward motion.
• Direct the ball toward the corners or along the line to make it difficult for your opponent.

Slice

The slice is a versatile stroke in which the ball is played with backspin, which causes it to bounce lower and slower. This stroke is especially effective in defensive situations or to put the opponent in an uncomfortable position.

Technology:

• Play the ball with a slightly open racquet blade and sweep under the ball to create backspin.
• Direct the ball deep into the opponent's court to force them to play a difficult return.
• Use the slice to take the speed out of the game and set the tempo.

Service

In contrast to tennis, service in padel is performed underhand. The ball must be hit below navel height and first bounce on the floor behind the service line before entering the opponent's service box diagonally. A varied serve can help you put your opponent in an uncomfortable position.

Technology:

• Keep the racquet low and hit with a fluid motion.
• Vary the speed and direction of your serve: against the window, along the middle line or directly at the opponent.
• You have two chances for a serve, so dare to take more risk on the first attempt.

Lob

A lob is a tactical stroke in which you hit the ball high over the opponent, with the aim of forcing them away from the net. A good lob can force your opponent into a defensive position and you regain control of the game.

Technology:

• Use a soft, upward motion to play the ball high and deep in the field.
• Pay attention to your opponent's position and aim the lob over their head or toward the back wall.
• A well-placed lob can createëren space to take the net position.

Dropshot

The dropshot is a subtle stroke designed to drop the ball just over the net with minimal speed. The goal is to surprise the opponent and force them to run hard to reach the ball.

Technology:

• Hit with a gentle motion, just enough to get the ball over the net.
• Place the ball as close to the net as possible to make it difficult for the opponent to retrieve it in time.
• The drop shot is especially effective when your opponent is far back.

Drive

A drive is a powerful, flat stroke usually played from the back of the court. It is a basic stroke that you use to hit the ball deep into the opponent's court, with the goal of pressuring them.

Technique:

• Hit the ball with a fluid, forward motion.
• Direct the ball deep into the opponent's court, ideally to the corners.
• A well-placed drive can force the opponent to move far back, giving you a chance to take over the net position.

Chiquita

The chiquita is a short, tactical stroke used when your opponent is close to the net. The goal is to play the ball gently into your opponent's feet, making it difficult to execute an effective volley.

Technology:

• Hit the ball gently with a short movement, just enough to get it over the net.
• Direct the ball low and close to your opponent's feet to force them to make an uncomfortable hit.
• The chiquita is an effective way to break the pace and force your opponent into defense.

Bandeja

The bandeja is a defensive to neutral stroke often used as a response to a lob. It is a technical stroke played with topspin, intended to return the ball in a controlled manner while maintaining net position.

Technology:

• Prepare the stroke by keeping your elbow at shoulder height and the racket slightly open.
• The point of contact is around head height, depending on what you want to do with the ball.
• Swing from high to low and forward to hit the ball in a controlled manner.

Bajada

The bajada is a powerful stroke in which the ball is struck down after it bounces off one of the glass walls. This stroke requires good timing and can be very effective to finish a point.

Technology:

• Wait for the ball to come back off the wall and hit with a powerful downward motion.
• Use the bajada to put pressure on the opponent and finish the point quickly.

Mastery of these different strokes in padel is essential for improving your game. Each stroke has its own function and, when used at the right time, can provide a great advantage. By practicing and experimenting with these strokes regularly, you can become a versatile and unpredictable player who makes the right decision in every situation.