Technique and strategy can help to take you a long way in padel. Not only will it improve your skills to master the growing sport’s toughest shots, but understanding when to perform them and committing to your decision on the court is fundamental. The most challenging padel shots will require both skill and insight in order to be executed correctly. In this article, we shall explore some of the toughest padel shots to master as well as how to understand the best opportunities to play them during matches.
The Smash Shot
The Smash is Padel's ‘power shot’ and is by far the most powerful shot available, particularly as it provides you with the chance to win the point. The idea is to determine when the opportune moment is to play the smash shot, largely due to the fact that executing the shot at the wrong time can leave you open for your opponent to attack.
One thing to avoid is performing a tennis-style smash, as padel rackets aren't equipped to provide the same force that a tennis racket can offer and with the walls to factor in on top, this allows your opponent the opportunity to respond easily by using the wall to their advantage. It is important to be selective as to when you decide to play the smash shot, only using the shot when you are in the most optimal position, for example when you are standing in close proximity to the net.
La Vibora Shot
If you’re finding that your smash is falling short of enough power, it might be a good idea to try playing La Vibora. This shot sits between la bandeja and the smash shots and is most ideal for pressing your opponent or in some cases defining that extra point. The best way to execute this shot is by bringing the racket up behind your head, keeping your elbow bent whilst rotating with your upper body and hitting the ball around the outside in order to create a spinning motion. You will find this shot makes it difficult for your opponent to respond, thus winning you or your team the point
La Chiquita Shot
La chiquita is probably the softest shot and is most ideal to use when your opponents are ready to attack. After receiving the ball, your opponent will have no other option than to hit the ball below the height of the net. It is best to hit the ball when you are sure that you have enough space from your opponents, rather than when they are in close proximity to the net. When you execute the shot correctly, you will force the opponent to retaliate with a volley, which in turn will make it easier for you to return the ball aggressively or with a lob, all dependent on the amount of space you have to play with.
Over time you will find that you will become competent enough to understand when the best opportunities to play la bandeja or smash shots are - it’s all down to practice - so why not get down to your local padel court today!
La Bandeja Shot
One of the most difficult shots in the game to master is La Bandeja. The great thing about learning how to perform this shot is it will provide you with a great advantage against your opponents, that is if you can learn how to swing the shot effectively. This is a shot that you will want to take immediately. Between attack and defence, it allows you to retaliate from the net.
Keep your eye on the ball and move backwards once you see your opponent hitting a lob - this is when you should be ready to take the shot and do so immediately, by taking your racket high, ensuring that you make contact with the ball in front of your body. Ensure that you allow enough space in between yourself and the ball to give you the best possible opportunity to take a proper strike by slicing the ball. As soon as you hit the ball you will want to reposition yourself, keeping you at the net.
