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Bandeja

Padel / Popular

Use the bandeja to keep net position and neutralize lobs without over-attacking.

What coaches agree on

  • The bandeja is a controlled, defensive shot for holding net position — finish it with your weight moving forward and sprint straight back to the net right after you hit it.
  • Meet the ball out to the side of your body at eye or forehead height with the arm extended, like a high forehand volley or a punch, rather than reaching for it overhead like a smash.
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  • Brush down the back of the ball to add backspin so it dies low off the glass instead of popping up for the opponent to attack.
  • Aim deep and mostly crosscourt into the corners, using the middle only occasionally with control, to maximize your recovery time and pressure the opponent.

Common mistakes

  • Watching the lob instead of turning and moving back immediately leaves players reacting late, taking small ineffective steps, and contacting the ball behind or too close to the body.
  • Preparing too low and swinging up into the ball, or getting under it instead of staying beside it, pops the shot up instead of driving it low.
ONE TIP to FIX your BANDEJA
Intermediate

ONE TIP to FIX your BANDEJA

Coach's take: Simple cue, real fix - 'get behind it, then come forward' will save you a dozen mishit bandejas.

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