Mastering the basics: A beginner’s guide to volley in padel

Are you a beginner in padel wondering how to volley in padel effectively? Mastering the basics of volleying in padel is essential if you want to improve your gameplay. In this article, we will explore the nuances of volley in padel and provide you with tips to perfect your technique.

What is a volley in padel?

A volley in padel is a shot hit before the ball bounces on the ground. In simple terms, you hit the ball in the air before it touches the ground. The objective is to keep control of the game and prevent your opponents from gaining an advantage.

Why is volley important in padel?

Volley plays a crucial role in padel, especially when you need to move up to the net and finish off the point. With a good volley technique, you can place the ball where you want, put pressure on your opponents, and maintain the tempo of the game.

The basics of volley in padel for beginners

Start by standing at the non-volley zone (NVZ) line, with your knees slightly bent, weight at your toes. Hold the racket out in front of you, making sure that the face is perpendicular to the ground. Keep your non-racket hand on the grip to maintain balance.

As the ball comes to you, step forward with your dominant foot, using a shuffle step to reach the ball. Meet the ball with the racket at eye level or above, keeping your elbow in and wrist firm.

Make sure to follow through with the shot by bringing the racket towards your opposite shoulder. This will help generate spin to get the ball to bounce downward and prevent it from going out of bounds.

Tips to perfect your volley technique

• Keep your eyes on the ball at all times, and track it until it hits the strings of your racket.

• Use a continental grip, which is a grip where the base knuckle of your index finger is placed on the third bevel of the racket handle. This grip allows for the most versatility in stroke-making.

• Always be prepared to move your feet and reach the ball in time. Make sure your weight is on your toes, and you are ready to move quickly.

• Practice, practice, practice! Take the time to practice your volleys by yourself or with a partner.

Conclusion

Volley is a fundamental shot in padel that requires technique, coordination, and practice. But with patience and dedication, mastering the volley in padel is possible. Start by following the basics, and once you have those down, you can start working on adding spin, placement, and other advanced techniques to your arsenal. Remember, the key is to keep practicing and refining your technique until you become a pro at how to volley in padel for beginners.