Upgrade Your Padel Offense with the Gancho
We often hear the word Gancho thrown around in the padel court but what does it mean? What is it and what is it used for? In this issue, let’s talk about the Gancho in padel.
Gancho means “the hook” in Spanish. This is in all advanced players’ vocabulary and moves repertoire. In reality, it is a slow blow between the bandeja and the smash, most of the time to find a short cross angle towards the grid. This “gancho” allows you to conceal your upcoming shot and counter your opponents if they stick the net after playing a high ball.
Check out this short video to see why you need this game changer move in your padela arsenal:
If you can tell the difference between bandeja, vibora, and smash, you can make the gancho. Others should concentrate on the bandeja or vibora and the smash. Go to the gancho once you’ve mastered these blows.
We need to get creative when it comes to the skills we bring to the padel court so that our opponent’s won’t see what’s coming!
First and foremost, the ball’s impact point must be high, to the side, and above the non-dominant shoulder. We could smash the ball by plunging the pala in the back and then printing a topspin effect, but we’d rather stay with the arm outstretched, the pala’s head towards the sky, and we’d like to impact slowly if possible.
Make sure the shovel is flat and aim up. This curve in our gesture, preparation with outstretched arms, impact flat above the head, end of gesture downwards, will allow the ball to dive towards the ground at a significant angle, allowing us to find the grid.
Warning: excessive speed will cause the ball to rebound significantly, making the attack on the opponents easier.
When your opponent’s lob prevents you from hitting a smash or bandeja, use the gancho. The ball is behind you, and the gancho is your best bet for not losing the net.
Then, when it’s windy, or the sun’s position becomes awkward, this shot is frequently used outside. You take your time and keep your ball up high.
