From Setup to Follow-Through: How to Hit Singles Padel Groundstrokes That Win

Padel, a thrilling blend of tennis and squash, continues to gain popularity worldwide. A crucial shot in singles padel is the groundstroke, which involves hitting the ball just after its bounce, setting up the next move for victory. In this article, we will delve into the essentials of how to hit a groundstroke in singles padel, from the setup to the follow-through. So grab your padel racket and let’s get started!

The Setup: Feet Placement and Grip

Before executing the perfect groundstroke, you need to get in the right starting position. Position yourself with your feet shoulder-width apart, allowing you to maintain a stable and balanced stance. Your grip depends on personal preference, but a semi-western grip is widely recommended for better control, power, and spin.

Now that you’ve got your feet grounded and grip sorted, let’s move on to the technique.

The Technique: Eye on the Ball and Swing Smoothly

Once the ball approaches your side of the court, keep your eye on it until the very last second. This will help you anticipate its trajectory and prepare for the stroke.

As the ball bounces towards your paddle, make sure to direct your swing towards the oncoming ball. A common mistake is swinging too early, resulting in missed opportunities. Remember, timing is key.

As you hit the ball, aim to swing smoothly and follow through your shot. Strive to make contact with the sweet spot near the center of your paddle for optimal power and accuracy. This will allow you to generate control and give the ball enough speed to traverse the court, putting your opponent on the defense.

Strategies for Success: Placement and Variation

Hitting a groundstroke with power and accuracy is essential, but don’t forget that placement and variation can be equally effective. Aim for areas on the court that make it difficult for your opponent to return the ball comfortably. Hit deep groundstrokes to the back corners or drop shots to keep your opponent guessing.

Additionally, mix up your groundstrokes with different spins, such as topspin or slice, to keep your opponent off balance. The element of surprise is a powerful weapon in padel.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any skill, mastering groundstrokes requires practice, practice, and more practice. Spend time on the court honing your technique, experimenting with different grips and footwork, and developing your shot selection.

Consider finding a coach or padel club to guide you in refining your groundstrokes. With expert advice and structured training sessions, you’ll progress quickly and see the results in your game.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, improving your groundstrokes in singles padel can take your game to new heights. Remember to focus on your setup, technique, and strategies while incorporating variations to keep your opponents on their toes. With dedication and a bit of fun, you’ll soon be hitting those winning groundstrokes like a true padel expert!