Technique is not complete when a player can only hit at one speed. Padel demands the ability to change spin, soften the hands, feel contact and control power according to the situation.
These qualities run through all 52 shots. They turn a collection of stroke shapes into an adaptable game.
The player who can control 50%, 70% and 90% effort has more solutions than the player whose only answer is harder.
Spin changes the opponent’s contact
Backspin can keep the ball low, topspin can create dip and kick, and sidespin can change the rebound from glass or fence. Spin is useful only when the player understands its effect on the next ball.
The racket path and face create spin; excessive wrist action reduces consistency. Teach the shape slowly before adding speed.
Touch is controlled softness
Touch is not simply hitting slowly. It is the ability to absorb and redirect pace with a clear target. The dejada and chiquita require soft hands while preserving structure and disguise.
The grip relaxes, but the contact remains organized.
Feel must be trained
Feel develops through varied contacts, different speeds and immediate feedback. Players need to notice where the ball met the racket and how small changes affect flight and rebound.
Ask questions before supplying every answer: “Where did you feel that contact? What changed the height? What would you adjust?”
Power control creates more power
Players often squeeze the grip and recruit too much arm when they want speed. Tension interrupts timing and reduces racket acceleration.
Efficient power begins with positioning, rotation, contact quality and relaxed acceleration. Coaching cue: “Control first. Add speed without adding tension.”
The three-speed control drill
Choose one target and hit five balls at 50% effort, five at 70% and five at 90%. Maintain the same preparation while changing speed and shape.
The goal is four of five target hits at each level, followed by a live rally in which the coach calls the required speed.
Part 24 of Julian Wortelboer’s Technical Pillar series, developed from the cross-cutting qualities in the PSA 52 Shots of Padel coaching methodology.
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