You should not hit every ball hard in padel. Power has a place, but beginners usually win more points by controlling the ball, choosing better targets, using lobs and making opponents play one more shot. In padel, a hard shot that rebounds off the glass can become an invitation for the other pair.
Last checked: 25 June 2026. This guide was reviewed against FIP rule context and LTA beginner skill guidance. It is written for recreational beginners and improvers.
Quick answer
Hit hard in padel only when the ball, position and target justify it. If you are off balance, deep in the court, late on the glass or unsure where your partner is, choose control. Most beginner points are lost through forced power, not lack of power.
Why power is different in padel
Padel is played on a smaller enclosed court. That means the walls keep many balls alive. A hard shot that would be a winner in tennis can rebound from the back glass and come back into the opponent's hitting zone.
Good padel power is not just speed. It is timing, angle, height, placement and court position. Without those, hard shots become low-percentage swings.
When hitting hard makes sense
- You are balanced: your feet are set and you are not reaching.
- The ball is high enough: you can attack down or into a difficult area.
- Opponents are out of position: power has somewhere to go.
- Your partner is covered: if the ball comes back, your pair is not exposed.
- You know the rebound: you understand what the glass is likely to do.
When control is better
- You are defending from the back.
- The ball is low or awkward.
- You are late after the glass.
- Opponents already control the net.
- You are unsure whether the ball is attackable.
- Your partner is not in position.
In those situations, a controlled lob, low ball or middle target is usually smarter than trying to force a winner.
The beginner power trap
Beginners often hit hard because it feels decisive. It also hides uncertainty. If you do not know whether to lob, block, volley or let the ball rebound, hitting hard feels like doing something. Unfortunately, padel rewards the right something.
The trap is that a few hard shots will work. That makes the habit sticky. But against better players, uncontrolled power gets absorbed, blocked or sent into awkward spaces.
Better targets than “hard”
| Situation | Better target | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Opponents at net | Lob over them | Recover court position |
| Both opponents split wide | Middle | Creates hesitation |
| Opponent volleying comfortably | Low at feet | Forces an upward ball |
| You are defending deep | High, safe lob | Buys time |
| You have an easy volley | Controlled depth | Maintains pressure without overhitting |
What about the smash?
The smash is useful, but it is not the default answer to every high ball. Beginner smashes often go long, hit the net or rebound perfectly for opponents. Learn controlled overheads first.
If the ball is not clearly there to finish, consider a bandeja-style controlled overhead, a deep placement shot or a reset. The goal is to keep the attacking position, not prove you can swing hard.
What about the bandeja and vibora?
The bandeja and vibora are overhead padel shots used to manage high balls without simply smashing. Beginners should understand the idea before trying to copy advanced versions. A controlled overhead that keeps opponents deep is more useful than a flashy shot that misses.
Read What is a bandeja? and What is a vibora? when you are ready for the detail.
How to practise using less power
- Play one game where you are not allowed to smash.
- Aim every return with 70% speed and high margin.
- Use a lob whenever both opponents are at the net.
- Volley to depth rather than trying to angle winners.
- Count how many points you win by opponent error rather than clean winners.
- Ask your partner whether your shot choice makes their next ball easier or harder.
Power and racket choice
A power-focused racket will not fix poor shot choice. In fact, it can make beginner errors bigger. If you are still learning the glass, lobs and volleys, choose a racket that helps control.
Use the best beginner padel rackets guide, browse padel rackets, or compare round, diamond and teardrop rackets.
Signs you are overhitting
- Your partner keeps saying “steady” or “just get it back”.
- You win occasional big points but lose most long rallies.
- Your smashes come back off the glass too often.
- You miss returns trying to attack serves.
- You feel rushed even when the ball is not fast.
- You rarely use lobs.
The better rule for beginners
Use controlled pace until you earn the right to hit hard. That means better position, better balance, better target and a clear reason. If any of those are missing, choose the boring shot. Boring shots win a lot of beginner padel.
FAQs
Should beginners hit hard in padel?
Not often. Beginners should prioritise control, placement and consistency before power.
Why do hard shots come back in padel?
The enclosed court and glass walls can rebound hard shots back into play if the placement is poor.
Is smashing important in padel?
Yes, but only when used at the right time. Controlled overheads are often more useful for beginners.
How do I win points without power?
Use lobs, low balls, middle targets, patient volleys and better partner positioning.
What racket helps with control?
Many beginners prefer forgiving, control-focused rackets, often with round or balanced shapes rather than aggressive power designs.
