How to Improve Your Padel Game: Tips from Pro Players
Padel is more than just a game—it’s a blend of skill, strategy, and mental toughness. While beginners can pick it up quickly, mastering the game takes dedication and the right techniques.
So, how do the pros do it? What are the secrets behind their precision shots, fast reflexes, and smart positioning?
In this guide, we’ll break down the best tips from professional padel players, covering technique, positioning, mindset, and training drills that will transform your game.
Master the Fundamentals: Grip, Stance & Shot Selection
Before diving into advanced techniques, you need to perfect the basics.
Use the Right Grip for Control & Power
Continental Grip (Hammer Grip) – The most versatile grip, used for volleys, smashes, and defensive shots.
Eastern Grip – Great for more topspin on forehands but less common in padel.
Tip from the Pros: Never grip the racket too tightly—keeping a relaxed hand allows for better feel and faster reactions.
Adopt the Right Stance
Your stance determines how quickly you can move, react, and attack.
Feet Shoulder-Width Apart: Stay balanced for quick movement.
Knees Slightly Bent: Helps you stay agile and react faster.
Weight on the Balls of Your Feet: Ready for forward or lateral movement.
Tip from the Pros: Stay low and centered—the more balanced you are, the easier it is to adjust to fast shots.
C. Improve Your Shot Selection
Instead of hitting the ball hard every time, focus on placement and strategy:
Lobs – Used to push opponents back and reset the rally.
Bandeja (Soft Smash) – A controlled smash to keep opponents at the baseline.
Víbora (Slicing Smash) – A sharp, low-bouncing attack shot.
Chiquita (Soft Touch Shot) – A short shot to bring opponents forward.
Tip from the Pros: “Padel is about patience, not power. Wait for the right moment to attack.” – Juan Lebrón
Perfect Your Serve & Return
How to Serve Like a Pro
The serve in padel is underhand, but that doesn’t mean it lacks strategy.
Aim for depth – A deep serve makes it harder for your opponent to attack.
Use spin – A side-spin serve can force weak returns.
Target angles – Serving wide pulls opponents off the court.
Pro Tip: Try serving to your opponent’s weaker side (usually the backhand) to gain an advantage.
Improve Your Return of Serve
What NOT to do: Avoid hitting returns too hard—it often feeds easy volleys to your opponent.
Hit low and soft – Make your opponents hit up, so you can take control of the net.
Use lobs – Push aggressive servers back with a well-placed lob return.
Master the Net Game & Positioning
Why Net Control Wins Matches
In professional padel, 80% of winning shots happen at the net. The goal? Move forward and take control.
Move as a team – Both players should advance or retreat together.
Hold the T-position – Stand slightly behind the service line to cover volleys.
Use soft volleys – Instead of smashing, play soft volleys to keep opponents moving.
Tip from the Pros: “The net is where points are won. If you control the net, you control the game.” – Fernando Belasteguín
Defend Like a Wall: How to Handle Fast-Paced Attacks
Padel isn’t just about attacking—it’s also about surviving under pressure.
Use the Glass Walls to Your Advantage
Unlike tennis, the walls in padel are your best friend:
Let the ball bounce off the back wall – Gives you extra time to react.
Use the side walls – Angle your shots off the side wall to create tricky returns.
Pro Tip: Don’t panic when the ball hits the glass—stay calm, position yourself early, and let the bounce guide your shot.
Improve Your Reflexes Against Smashes
Top players don’t just block smashes—they redirect them.
Turn defense into attack – Use soft blocks to reset the rally.
Play lob defense – A well-timed lob neutralizes aggressive net players.
Train Like a Pro: Drills & Workouts to Improve Your Game
Reaction Speed Drills
Wall Reflex Drill: Stand 1 meter from a wall and volley against it at high speed.
Partner Reflex Drill: Have a partner feed balls at different speeds while you return from various angles.
Footwork & Agility Training
Ladder Drills: Improves lateral movement and reaction speed.
Short Sprint Drills: Helps with quick acceleration toward the net.
Strength & Conditioning
Core Workouts: A strong core improves stability on volleys and smashes.
Leg Strength Exercises: Squats and lunges help with explosive movement.
Develop a Winning Mindset
Mental strength is just as important as skill.
Stay Patient & Play Smart
Padel is a game of strategy, not just power. Instead of rushing shots, stay calm and force your opponent into mistakes.
Communicate with Your Partner
Call every shot – Avoid confusion on the court.
Encourage each other – Positive energy boosts team performance.
Tip from the Pros: “Doubles is about teamwork. A strong partnership can beat individual skill.” – Paquito Navarro
Put These Tips into Action!
Improving your padel game isn’t just about hitting harder—it’s about playing smarter. By mastering technique, positioning, and strategy, you can level up your game and start winning more matches.