Mastering The Padel Forehand: Technique Tips To Improve Your Shot

Jun 10

The forehand is one of the first shots you learn in padel—and one of the most important. It’s the foundation of rallies, returns, and even attacking plays. But just because it’s a basic shot doesn’t mean it’s always easy to get right.

A great padel forehand isn’t about brute force. It’s about timing, control, and using the unique characteristics of the sport to your advantage.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years, refining your forehand can make a huge difference in your overall game. Here’s how to take it from average to reliable—and eventually, to dangerous.

Understand The Purpose Of The Forehand In Padel

In tennis, the forehand is often a power shot. In padel, it’s more about precision and placement.

The court is smaller, the walls are in play, and the paddle doesn’t offer the same power as a stringed racquet. This means your forehand has to do more than just clear the net—it has to set you and your partner up for the next move.

Good forehands in padel:

Keep your opponents deep
Make them move laterally
Give you time to take better positioning
Apply pressure with consistent depth and spin

It’s not always about hitting a winner. It’s about keeping the upper hand in the rally.

Key Technique Tips For A Stronger Forehand

1. Start with the Right Stance

Stay light on your toes with knees slightly bent
Feet shoulder-width apart
Paddle held up in front of your body, ready to rotate

The forehand starts before the swing—with how you position your body to react quickly.

2. Use a Compact Backswing

Unlike tennis, padel doesn’t allow time for big, sweeping takebacks. Keep your backswing short and controlled—think elbow near your side, paddle pointing back but not too far behind you.

This helps with timing and improves consistency, especially on fast exchanges.

3. Rotate, Don’t Just Swing

Your shot should come from a gentle rotation of your hips and torso, not just your arm. This rotation helps generate power efficiently without needing to overhit.

Let the paddle follow through naturally, ideally finishing near your opposite shoulder.

4. Watch the Ball Closely

Sounds obvious, but it’s often the first thing players forget—especially under pressure. Keep your eyes on the ball through contact to maintain accuracy and reduce mishits.

5. Use the Walls to Your Advantage

In padel, the back glass can be your best friend. Practicing your forehand off the rebound (defensive forehand) is crucial for resetting rallies and staying in control when pushed deep.

Common Forehand Mistakes To Avoid

Overhitting: Trying to force winners instead of building points
Late preparation: Waiting too long to turn your body and set up
Too much wrist: Sacrifices stability and consistency
Standing flat-footed: Makes quick adjustments harder, especially on awkward bounces
Ignoring positioning: Hitting a decent shot from a poor position often leads to errors

A small correction in one of these areas can transform your forehand overnight.

When To Use Different Forehand Variations

In padel, variety is everything. The same forehand won’t work in every situation. Knowing when to adjust your shot can give you a real edge:

Drive forehand: For when you’re attacking and want to push opponents back
Forehand lob: Perfect to reset the point or shift pressure
Forehand volley: Key for net play and quick reactions
Defensive forehand off the back wall: Crucial for surviving deeper attacks

Practicing all of these regularly ensures you’re never stuck in a one-dimensional game.

Practice Makes Confidence

Repetition builds muscle memory—but mindful repetition builds confidence. Instead of endlessly hitting forehands for the sake of it, try this:

Practice with purpose: focus on one detail at a time (e.g., footwork, timing, follow-through)
Use game-like drills: simulate pressure and angles
Play mini matches where you're only allowed to start the point with a forehand to build rhythm

It’s not about perfection. It’s about comfort, control, and confidence under pressure.

Final Thoughts: A Forehand You Can Rely On

Padel may look simple at first glance, but real skill lies in the details. The forehand is one of those details that, when polished, elevates your entire game.

It helps you play smarter, smoother, and with more control. It lets you build points instead of rushing them. And most importantly—it helps you stay consistent, which is everything in this sport.

So the next time you're warming up, give your forehand a little extra love. You might be surprised how much it gives back.

Let me know if you'd like a downloadable forehand-focused drill routine or breakdowns of the top pro players' forehand techniques.

Rahul Khadke