Le reverse is one of defensive shots most used in padel. With one hand or two hands, what is the best technique to approach? Here is a few tips.

The backhand is a blow that can give you security at the bottom of the track, but which can also launch counter-attacks. Many players do it with one hand, but know that if you have decided to do it with both hands, you will not be looked at askance ... quite the contrary. Top level players like Marta Marrero or Pablo Lima have made it a formidable weapon.

Why choose the backhand with 2 hands rather than one hand?

The answer is simple. In order to have more strength and correctly maintain the pala at the moment of impact. It can be recommended for children or for women, but men can also practice the backhand with both hands without any problem, the goal being that you are comfortable in your game; you don't play for others do you? Indeed, you are playing for yourself, so action.

Let's detail the backhand technique at the bottom of the track.

Step 1: resumption of support

Always in the first place you will have to make this small jump, at the time of the strike of your adversaries, which will allow you to quickly take the decision of the blow to play.

Step 2: preparation

With one or two hands, first place your pala back, at waist height. In order for it to be in the best possible position, imagine that the end of the handle has an eye. That eye will watch the ball come.

Step 3: the first step

This first step can be taken forward if you have the opportunity to attack the ball with an offensive stroke, or backward if you want more time to organize your defense.

A little advice when you take a first step backwards; your foot should go in the direction given by the pala during preparation. As much as the pala's eye will watch the ball come, our back foot will move towards the tip of the pala.

Step 4: typing

Once you've taken your first step, either you'll be able to trigger the strike or you'll need to adjust your placement. For a backhand performed in optimal conditions, it will be better to have both feet on the ground with the foot of the dominant leg (side of the pala) in front.

Whether you are on your footing properly or not, always try to perform your strike with your body weight forward. The end of the gesture will go in the direction of the sought area.

The final word

The setback is a blow that many people fear. Admittedly, it's not an easy move to master from day one, but above all learn to let the ball come towards you instead of rushing. Take the time to prepare, place your pala correctly, tighten your sleeve correctly with one or two hands, and let your pala “sing”.

Do not hesitate to contact your club and / or padel so that it makes you repeat this gesture which needs, like number of strokes, to be automated.

It's your turn !!!

Julien Bondia

Julien Bondia is a teacher of padel in Tenerife (Spain). Columnist and advisor, he helps you play better through his tutorials and tactical/technical articles padel.

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