The Four Padel Volleys and the Net Game

The forehand and backhand volley

Both volleys begin with the racket in front, a compact shoulder turn and contact ahead of the body. The wrist remains stable while the legs and body move the racket through the ball.

The volley should not become a large swing. Long preparation creates late contact and delays recovery.

The forehand and backhand dejada

The dejada uses disguise, soft hands and backspin to bring the ball short after the same initial preparation as a deeper volley. It works because opponents read depth and receive touch instead.

Select it when the opponents are deep, the player is balanced and contact can stay in front.

Direction before power

High-value targets include the middle, the feet, open space and the weaker defender. Direction and depth often create more pressure than speed because they limit the next response.

Coaching cue: “Short preparation, firm contact, recover before you admire it.”

• Use the middle to create hesitation.
• Use the feet to force a low contact.
• Use depth when opponents are comfortable near the glass.
• Use the dejada only when their position creates the space.

Common net-game errors

Players often stand too close, swing too much and remain frozen after contact. Others try to finish every volley instead of building pressure.

Evaluate the pair after contact. A good volley that leaves both players separated or unbalanced is not a complete action.

A measurable volley drill

Feed ten forehand volleys, ten backhand volleys and five dejadas from each side. The player earns a point only when the target is reached and the ready position is recovered before the next feed.

Reach 80% controlled target-and-recovery repetitions, then repeat with lateral movement and live decisions.