Defensive groundstrokes and volley placement tactics

VolleyOct 7, 2024

Key takeaway from our Guru

How should I choose my volley and groundstroke targets?

Keep your groundstrokes low by adding top spin so the ball drops after crossing the net. For volleys, aim low balls toward the fence, mid-height balls down the center, and high balls toward the side wall.

What this lesson covers

Defensive groundstrokes require top spin to keep the ball trajectory low after crossing the net. This prevents opponents from attacking the ball while it remains above the net height. By forcing the ball to drop, the player neutralizes the offensive pressure from the net position.

Volley placement depends on the height of the incoming ball. Low volleys require a slow, flat contact with slight slice directed toward the fence to restrict the opponent's movement. Mid-height volleys are played down the center with increased spin to maintain control. High volleys allow for a flat strike or a slice directed toward the side wall or cage. While smashing high balls is an option, it demands high athleticism and precise timing.

New lessons, in your inbox

We add lessons from the creators we learn from every week. Get the new ones, our racket reviews and what the creators are making, every other week.

Original video

EverythingPadel

Added on Apr 2, 2026

Training With UK's BEST Padel Coach

Description

My Online Padel Store - https://everythingpadel.co.uk/

Good for

Court position

Net

Play style

Defensive

Secondary shot

Slice

Keywords

Support EverythingPadel

Every lesson on this page is EverythingPadel's work. If it helped your game, subscribe on YouTube and tell them.

Subscribe on YouTube

Related video lessons