Serve Technique in Padel: Complete Guide
Master the serve in padel with this complete guide including technique, strategy, and tips to start each point with an advantage.
Why is the Serve Important?
The serve is the only shot in padel where you have total control. A good serve can give you an advantage from the first moment of the point. It's essential to master this technique to be a complete player.
Types of Serves
Flat Serve
The most basic and direct serve. Ideal for beginners and for maintaining consistency.
- Easy to control
- Greater consistency
- Ideal for beginners
Slice Serve
With lateral spin that makes the ball deviate. Very effective for taking the opponent out of the court.
- Lateral spin
- Difficult to return
- Requires more technique
Kick Serve
With upward spin that makes the ball bounce high. Ideal for taking the opponent out of the court.
- High bounce
- Very effective
- Requires much practice
Serve Technique
Initial Position
Position yourself behind the service line, with feet shoulder-width apart. Ball in non-dominant hand, racket in dominant hand.
💡 Tip: Keep your body relaxed and your eyes on the ball.
Toss
Toss the ball upward and slightly forward. The ideal height is at eye level. Keep your arm straight and the movement smooth.
🎯 Key: The toss must be consistent for a reliable serve.
Impact
Hit the ball at the highest point of the toss. Keep the racket perpendicular to the ground and follow through forward.
⚡ Important: The impact point determines the direction and spin of the ball.
Serve Strategy
Serve Objectives
Start the point
The serve should be the start of your strategy
Control the pace
Use the serve to impose your pace
Create opportunities
A good serve gives you an advantage
Variations
Change direction
Vary between short and long serves
Vary speed
Mix fast and slow serves
Use spin
Add spin to make the return difficult
Common Mistakes
Technical Mistakes
Inconsistent toss
Practice the toss until it's automatic
Hitting too late
Anticipate the ball movement
Not following through
Follow-through is key for control
Strategy Mistakes
Always the same
Vary your serve to keep the opponent guessing
Too aggressive serve
Consistency is more important than power
Not adapting
Adjust your serve according to conditions
Practice Exercises
Basic Exercise
Practice the toss and movement without a ball. Focus on correct technique and consistency.
- 50 consecutive tosses
- Maintain correct technique
- Vary the height of the toss
Advanced Exercise
Work on precision with a partner. Practice different types of serves and strategy.
- Practice different types of serves
- Work on precision
- Vary the strategy
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