Padel is all about strategy, control, and using the walls smartly — but to win more points (and have more fun), you need to build a solid foundation of core shots. These five fundamental techniques show up in almost every rally, from beginners to pros on the World Padel Tour.
Master them step by step, practice them consistently, and you’ll notice your game level up fast. Let’s break them down!
1. The Bandeja – Your Go-To Overhead Defense
The bandeja (Spanish for “tray”) is the most important overhead shot in padel. It’s not about power — it’s about control and keeping your opponents pinned back.
- When to use it: Whenever the ball comes high near the net or you’re defending an aggressive lob/smash attempt.
- How to hit it:
- Position yourself sideways, like a tennis serve prep.
- Use an open stance, high contact point above your head.
- Slice downwards gently with an open racket face — think “serving a tray of drinks” without spilling.
- Aim deep to the corners or off the side wall to force your opponents to volley from low.
- Common mistake: Smashing everything — save the smash for when you have a clear winner opportunity. Over-smashing often leads to errors or easy counters.
- Pro tip: Practice the bandeja against the back wall to groove the feel.
2. The Vibora – The Spinning, Aggressive Overhead
The vibora (“viper”) adds bite and unpredictability to your overhead game. It’s the attacking version of the bandeja.
- When to use it: When you have a high ball and want to apply pressure instead of just resetting.
- How to hit it:
- Same high contact point as the bandeja, but close the racket face more.
- Come around the side of the ball with a whipping motion to generate sidespin.
- Target the side glass so the ball skids low and bounces awkwardly.
- Common mistake: Hitting it too flat — without spin, the shot sits up for an easy reply.
- Pro tip: Build it slowly — prioritise clean contact before adding speed.
3. The Smash – Your Point-Finishing Weapon
The smash (or remate) is the classic finisher, but knowing when to use it is key.
- When to use it: Only on high, hittable balls when opponents are deep or out of position.
- How to hit it:
- Load the legs and transfer weight forward upon contact for extra power and angle.
- Drive the ball downward aggressively toward the feet, corners, or body.
- Vary your smashes: flat and hard, sliced off the wall, or with topspin kick.
- Common mistake: Forcing the smash too often. Missed smashes hand over free points.
- Pro tip: Practice “contested” smashes (opponents close to the net) and aim at their feet or bodies.
4. The Chiquita – The Soft, Sneaky Drop Shot
The chiquita is a delicate touch shot that disrupts rhythm and catches opponents flat-footed.
- When to use it: At the net on low balls when you want to force a weak return or lob.
- How to hit it:
- Short backswing, relaxed grip, soft hands.
- Drop the ball just over the net with topspin so it dies quickly.
- Target the “dead zone” near the net post or the T-area.
- Common mistake: Adding too much power — it needs finesse to work.
- Pro tip: Use it after a strong drive or volley to keep opponents guessing.
5. The Defensive Lob – Your Get-Out-of-Jail Card
The high lob (globo) resets the point when you’re under pressure.
- When to use it: When pulled wide, defending a smash, or just buying time.
- How to hit it:
- Bend your knees and use your legs for upward power.
- Send it deep and very high — aim for the last meter of the court so it bounces off the back wall.
- Possibly add a bit of topspin for control and dip.
- Common mistake: Hitting it too short — that just sets up an easy smash.
- Pro tip: Practice lobs off the glass to turn defense into counter-attack opportunities.
Quick Practice Ideas to Build These Shots
- Warm up with controlled wall rallies focusing on touch and placement.
- Spend 10–15 minutes per session drilling just one shot.
- Play fun mini-games: only bandeja overheads allowed, or force chiquitas at the net.
- Record yourself whenever possible — seeing your technique is the fastest way to improve.
These fundamentals are the building blocks of great padel. Which shot feels trickiest for you right now? Book a session with one of our coaches — we love helping players develop these exact techniques.
Ready to put them into action? BOOK NOW!
Keep building that game, one smart shot at a time!
