Top 7 Tips To Improve Your Power in padel

1. Perfect Your Stance:

Power in padel tennis begins with a solid and well-balanced stance. Ensure your feet are shoulder-width apart, and your weight is evenly distributed. A strong foundation allows you to generate power from your legs and transfer it through your body into the shot. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward, maintaining a posture that facilitates a dynamic and powerful swing. A stable core is key throughout any shot played in padel.

2. Utilise Leg Drive:

Powerful shots originate from your legs. Incorporate leg drive into your shots by bending your knees and pushing off the ground as you swing. This kinetic energy generated from your legs amplifies the power transmitted to the ball. Practise explosive movements from your legs during drills to enhance your ability to drive the ball with increased force.

3. Optimise Racket Head Speed:

Increasing the speed of your racket head is a key factor in boosting the power of your shots. Focus on smooth, fluid swings, allowing your racket to move through the air with maximum speed. Engage your core muscles to aid in the rotation of your torso, further enhancing the speed of your racket head. A faster swing translates to more power upon contact with the ball.

4. Master the Wrist Snap:

The proper use of your wrist can significantly enhance shot power. As you make contact with the ball, employ a controlled snap of the wrist. This action adds an extra burst of speed to your shot, surprising your opponents and increasing the ball’s velocity. However, it’s crucial to maintain control to avoid sacrificing accuracy for power.

5. Strengthen Your Core Muscles:

A strong core is essential for generating power and stability in your shots. Include core-strengthening exercises in your training routine, such as planks, rotational exercises, and medicine ball twists. A robust core not only contributes to powerful shots but also improves your overall agility and balance on the court.

6. Focus on Power Timing:

Perfectly timing your shots is paramount to extracting maximum power. Wait for the ball to reach the ideal position before initiating your swing. Timing is the key to connecting with the sweet spot of your racket, resulting in a more powerful and controlled shot. Regular practice and drills focused on timing will refine your ability to generate power consistently.

7. Experiment with Different Grips:

The grip you use can impact the power of your shots. While a neutral grip is generally recommended for overall control, experimenting with a slightly more pronounced continental grip may give you an edge in power. Adjusting your grip slightly can alter the angle of the racket face, allowing you to strike the ball with more force.

Geoff Fourie 

Managing Director