Training Padel Volleys: Turning Good Technique into Game-Winning Shots
Sun, 03 Mar 2024 00:00

Tennis players often bring strong volleys to padel, but they can face some common issues:
- Volleys that are too fast
- Volleys that land too deep and are too bouncy
This makes it easy for opponents to defend. To fix this, specific targets on the court are used to guide where the first bounce of the volley should land.
The improvement is clear: when players aim accurately, opponents struggle to return the volleys. When the bounce is too deep, defenders have time to reset. Precision over power is the key takeaway.
Adding an Exercise: Setups Before Finishing
Once volley placement improves, a new exercise can be introduced: after hitting a volley, move forward and hit a more aggressive ball. The goal is to force the opponent back and then choose the right ball to finish the point.
Setting up three or four volleys before finishing is crucial. It's tempting to go for winners too early, but in padel, patience and shot selection are everything.
From Exercise to Game: The Real Test
Training technique is one thing — applying it in match play is another.
To bridge this gap, players can practice cross-court points where the opponent is not allowed to come forward. This setup forces the player to apply targeted volleys, gradual pressure, and intelligent decision-making.
The results speak for themselves: fewer mistakes, smarter finishes, and even the occasional beautiful drop shot to end the rally.
Final Thoughts
Transforming your volley from "good" to "padel effective" is about targeting your shots, adding smart aggression, and choosing the right moment to finish.
Practice with purpose — and you'll see the results when it matters most.