The “Padelles: bandeja” YouTube video by Padel Warriors discusses the bandeja, or defending smash, used to defend against lob shots in padel. To execute the shot, players should prepare sideways, raise the racket short, and position the balance arm around hitting height. The hitting point should be far from the body and slightly in front, with the ball hit low to keep it on the opponent’s side.
The common mistakes
Common mistakes include hitting too high, hitting on top instead of underneath, and moving backward too late. To improve, players should aim for a lower hitting point, create a slice, and move backward quickly. The bandeja is a challenging shot, and in some cases, it may be better to let the ball drop and play a lob instead. Adapting the technique to each situation is key.