How to hit a good bandeja in padel?
The bandeja is one of the most difficult shots for players to learn. This can be particularly difficult for tennis players, as the technique, contact point and shot objective are very different to the tennis smash.
The word “bandeja” means “tray” in Spanish. The shot sits somewhere between a smash and a forehand volley and is often used on a deep lob with the purpose of retaining the net position.
There are a few key elements you should think about with this shot:
- Move back early
- Make contact in front
- Recover quickly so you can retain the net position
The aim is to avoid being attacked on the next ball and, where possible, turn a defensive overhead into a neutral or attacking situation.
Useful target areas include the corners, where the glass can slow the ball and make the next shot more difficult, and the middle, where you can move both opponents towards the centre of the back court.
There are different ways of hitting the bandeja, including actions that use more chest rotation or more arm. The best option depends on the ball, your position and your level.
There is a huge variation of overheads in padel, and the bandeja is just one element. For a broader progression through overheads, explore the Advanced Roadmap.
