Use a wall to practice controlling the ball after it bounces off the glass, a common scenario in padel. This drill helps improve reaction time and ball control. lta.org.uk
One of the hardest parts of the game to master when you’re just starting out is playing the ball off the glass. The padel court is surrounded by a glass wall that you can use to your advantage.
When playing a point, once the ball has bounced you can let the ball hit the glass before you return it to your opponent. It can be helpful if you want to give yourself more time on the shot or if it bounces close to the glass where it’s harder to return.
The top tips for playing a shot after it has hit the glass:
- Give yourself space – make sure your ready position is in the correct place on the court to allow you to change direction if needed
- Preparation – make sure your racket is prepared early before moving to the ball
- Read the incoming ball – see how fast the ball is travelling from your opponents – if it is slower you will need to move much closer to the glass
- Control over power – these shots are naturally more difficult to hit, so give yourself more chance of getting it in by taking off some pace and controlling it back over the net
You can also return the ball by hitting it against the back glass. If you find yourself in a defensive situation where it’s difficult to return the ball, try hitting it against the back glass and landing it on your opponent’s side of the net before bouncing.
