Former world number 25 at the time of the World Padel Tour, now founder of Padel Stuff In Bilbao, Andoni Bardasco continues his series of educational videos dedicated to summer conditions. After a first episode focused on equipment and the specifics of playing in summer, the Spaniard now tackles an even more strategic subject: how to adapt your tactics when temperatures rise. 

Playing harder is not always the right solution

When temperatures rise, the sensations on the court change immediately. The ball flies faster, the glass reacts differently, and the conditions seem to favor a more offensive game.

However, Andoni Bardasco warns against a mistake he observes very regularly: wanting to hit harder under the pretext that smashes become easier.

According to him, this impression is misleading. While the heat does indeed facilitate certain offensive shots, it also increases the risk of unforced errors and pushes many players to want to finish points too quickly.

Rethink your tactics rather than your intensity

In this second video, Bardasco draws on concrete situations that all practitioners encounter.

He questions, in particular, the role of the smash when the ball is more easily going out of bounds. While this weapon may become more effective, it shouldn't be used indiscriminately. The former professional player reminds us that the risk/reward ratio remains crucial.

The video also addresses the difficulties encountered at the net. A livelier ball requires greater precision in preparing the stroke and choosing the trajectory.

The lob remains an indispensable weapon

Contrary to popular belief, summer conditions do not only benefit the most attacking players.

For Andoni Bardasco, defenders who are able to build up play and be patient can even take significant advantage of these particular conditions.

Le  lob  Its importance is particularly evident. When executed correctly, it remains the best way to regain the net, even when smashes seem easier to perform.

The video also revisits the use of effects — slice, lift or various trajectories — as well as the return of serve, a phase often underestimated but which can allow you to gradually regain control of the rally.

Control above all

Throughout his explanations, one message keeps recurring:  Control remains the most important quality in padel. , whatever the season.

Summer offers more offensive opportunities, but it also punishes impatient players or those who look for the winning shot on every ball much more quickly.

For Bardasco, playing well isn't just about finishing points quickly. It's also about knowing how to build rallies, making the right tactical choices, and enjoying yourself with the three other players on the court.

Finally, this second video concludes with a question deliberately left open:  How should fencing actually be used in the summer?  A debate that the founder of Padel Stuff invites its community to contribute, which could be the subject of a future episode.

 The second part of this summer series is already available on the YouTube channel of Padel Stuff. 

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