How to perfect the lob in padel
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How to Perfect the Lob in Padel: Technique, Drills & Strategic Tips
The lob is one of the most strategic strokes in padel, but its true impact is often underestimated. At Corcuera Padel Club, we believe the lob can be one of your most powerful tools — *if* you use it at the right moment, with solid technique, and smart positioning. Below, you’ll learn how to execute the perfect lob, avoid common pitfalls, and turn it into a point-winning weapon.
Why the Lob Is a Game Changer
- Buy time under pressure: A high, well-placed lob gives you breathing room when opponents are pressing you.
- Disrupt opponent’s net control: Forces the net player(s) to retreat, weakening their offensive position.
- Regain the net: When used correctly, a lob opens up chances for you to move forward and dominate the court.
Fundamental Lob Technique
Preparation & Footwork
- Stable base: feet apart, knees bent, centre of gravity low.
- Move into position early—small steps to adjust.
- Select grip appropriately (open racket face) depending on ball trajectory.
Contact Point & Racket Positioning
Hit when the ball is slightly descending, ideally at waist height or just below. Aim to get under the ball with an open racket face. Avoid hitting from too far back or with stretched arm.
Trajectory & Height Control
Use a smooth upward motion, following through. The lob should be high enough to go safely over the net players, but not so high that it risks going out. Control both trajectory and depth (how far back it lands).
When to Use Defensive vs Offensive Lob
- Defensive lob: Under pressure, being attacked, off-balance. Use height and depth to buy time.
- Offensive lob: When opponents are close or over-committed, or when you spot openings near their baseline. A quick, angled lob can force weak returns.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Why It Hurts | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Hitting too early or in a rush | Lob lacks height or control; gives opponent easy opportunity | Stay balanced; wait until proper contact point; reset before lobbing |
| Poor body adjustment | Reduces accuracy; increased risk of error | Move with small steps; align under ball; adjust stance |
| Lob is too low or too shallow | Opponent can intercept or attack | Focus on trajectory; aim higher; practice depth control drills |
| Over-powering | Lob may go out; you lose control | Prioritize placement over force |
Drills to Improve Lob Accuracy & Consistency
- Depth Control: Place cones or targets at different backcourt positions. Practice lobs landing in those zones.
- Trajectory Repetition: Repeated strokes practicing high vs moderate lobs to get consistent control.
- Pressure Situations: From backcourt, simulate fast balls or awkward positions and lob under pressure.
- Rally with Lobs: Alternate lobs with other players, forcing variations in height & angle.
Advanced Lob Strategies & Tactical Tips
- Use angles (corners of opponent’s court) to make it harder for them to respond.
- Combine lob with low shots / drop shots to keep opponents guessing.
- Observe opponent’s weaknesses: if they struggle to retreat or back up, exploit with lob.
FAQs: Mastering the Lob in Padel
When should I choose a lob over a drop shot or low drive?
Choose a lob when under pressure, when opponents are at the net, or when you get a ball difficult to attack. Drop shots are riskier if your opponent is close.
How high should my lob be?
High enough to clear the net players with room to spare, and land deep in backcourt. But not so high that it loses control or goes out.
How do I practise lob consistency under pressure?
Use drills with fast incoming balls, awkward positioning, or scoring penalties for misses to simulate match stress.
Conclusion
Mastering the lob makes you more strategic, more versatile, and gives you tools to take control of points, even when defensive. With regular practice, smart decision-making, and the right drills, this stroke can shift momentum in your favour. Start applying these tips in your next match, and see how your lob game improves.
Explore our blog on the volley technique and discover how Corcuera helps players elevate their net and smashes game.
