The lob is one of the most effective and strategic shots in padel.
When executed correctly, it can shift the momentum of a point, disrupt your opponent’s positioning, and create opportunities to take control of the game.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why the lob is essential, how to perfect it and when to use it for maximum impact.
Why the lob matters
In padel, court positioning is crucial. Since the net game is dominant, pushing your opponents back can give you a significant advantage.
A well-placed lob can:
- Force your opponents away from the net, allowing you to move forward.
- Create defensive errors by making them play a difficult overhead smash.
- Give you time to recover and reset the point when under pressure.
When to use the lob
There are several situations in padel where a lob can be extremely effective:
- Defensive situations: When under pressure, a high lob gives you time to reset.
- Against aggressive opponents: Use it to move them away from the net.
- Offensively. A high lob can be incredibly offensive especially if it hits the ground deep and bounces vertically to hit high on the back glass.
- As a surprise element: A disguised lob can catch your opponents off guard, especially if they are expecting a low shot.
How to execute the perfect lob
To master the lob, you need precision, control, and an understanding of your opponent’s positioning.
Follow these key steps:
- Grip and stance: Use a continental grip for better control. Maintain a balanced stance and use your legs.
- Swing technique: Lift the ball with an upward motion, generating height with a controlled follow-through.
- Height and depth: Aim for a high lob with depth that clears your opponent comfortably and lands the as close to the back glass as your skills enables.
- Spin and Control: Do not add topspin as it will only help your opponents. Backspin can help, or be necessary from really low contact points, and can slow the pace and make the bounce awkward.
- Direction. A cross court lob gives you more court to play with so a bigger margin for error. A deep lob to the middle of the court can help neutralize things, and a lob down the line can change the rythmn of the point.
Common mistakes to avoid
It takes time to master the lob and you should not beat yourself up if you get it wrong. It tends to fail to achieve the objectives outlined above due to one of the following:
- Too short: A short lob invites an easy overhead and smash.
- Too long: A lob that goes out and/or hits the glass gives away free points.
- Lack of variation: If you use the same lob repeatedly, opponents will anticipate it. Beginners often use the lob off the back glass which becomes predictable. Consider using a Chiquita or Bajada instead.
Conclusion
The lob is a fundamental yet often underestimated shot in padel. By practicing it regularly and understanding when to use it, you can add a new dimension to your game.
Next time you’re on the court, challenge yourself to integrate lobs strategically, both in defense and offense, and watch how it transforms your play!
If in doubt, come and chat to one of the Padel39 instructors as they will be very happy to share their wisdom and help you improve your padel strategy.
