Noah discusses the decision between turning or stepping away when playing a backhand or forehand based on four factors: ball height, speed, proximity to favorite position, and time. Turning is easier for high forehands on the left side, very fast balls, and keeps you closer to your position. Stepping away is better for high backhands on the right side, slower balls, and requires more recovery. Noah also highlights the benefits of stepping away, such as better orientation and easier lob play.
Additionally, he offers nine technical tips for improving defense in padel, including preparing at the same height as the ball, opening the racket face for easier contact, only accelerating when the ball is high, getting behind the ball for a better contact point, playing flat when the ball is low, slicing when it’s high, and staying at the same height to keep the ball low.
