Inch by Inch Moving Closer to Victory: Padel Net Play Explained
When players successfully push their opponents away from the net, they often want to get closer to the net to have greater control of the court and obtain better offensive positioning.
But the question is: when striking, at what distance should we position ourselves from the net?
The other team may easily get us out of position by throwing a long ball at us if we are too near to the net while being too far away could allow them room to make high shots (lobs) directly in front of us.
How close is too close? Can you reach over the net while playing padel?
While hitting a ball, you are allowed to extend your arm beyond the net as long as you don’t hit the net. Even a ball on the far side of the net may be played.
If a player is trying to hit the ball over the net and lands a hand on it after he makes contact, he’ll forfeit a point. It may be tough to learn at first, but there are some sophisticated moves over the net that are worth working to master. Playing shots like this requires a lot of effort and balance, but the more you practice, the better you’ll become.
When do you need to hit the ball over the net?
You’ll need to position and time your shots if you want to win in padel. It’s ideal to attack over the net while you’re rushing the point – it’s when your opponent is in the middle of regaining balance from the last shot you landed.
So what’s the big secret? What’s the sweet spot on the net?
Make sure you’re in a suitable position to return high balls. Returning to the net position should be attained with one step forward and two steps back, which allows you to reach low balls after one stride forward.
It’s best to stay about 4 meters from the net as a standard. The position you will play will rely on your ability to hit volley winners and your opponent’s ability to hit lobs.
