If you’re just getting started with padel, your forehand and backhand are the foundation of everything.

Those are the shots you’ll use the most, whether you’re returning serves, defending from the back, or setting up points. And while they might look simple, small mistakes early on can slow your progress later.

Let’s break down these shots together with Coach Hernan, who will give us an explanation and demonstration on both.

Why These Two Shots Matter So Much?

In padel, most rallies start from the back of the court. That means you’ll be hitting a lot of forehands and backhands, often under pressure.

Unlike tennis, padel is less about power and more about control. You don’t need big swings, you need good positioning, clean contact, and consistency. If you get these basics right early, everything else (volleys, bandejas, viboras) becomes much easier later.

The Forehand

The forehand is the first shot players feel comfortable with. It’s used in almost every situation whether it is defending, attacking, or building points.

Key fundamentals

• Prepare early: As soon as you see the ball coming, take the racket back.
• Sideways stance: Turn your shoulders and position your body side-on.
• Short, controlled swing: Focus on guiding the ball, in padel, you don’t need a big backswing.
• Contact in front of your body: This is one of the most important details for consistency.
• Push through the ball, don’t hit it: Think control first, power second.

A solid forehand helps you stay consistent in rallies and gives you time to move forward when the opportunity comes.

The Backhand

The backhand is where beginners usually feel uncomfortable, and where opponents will quickly test you. That’s why it’s worth getting right early.

Key fundamentals

• Use a continental grip (like a handshake): This gives you versatility and control.
• Stay side-on and balanced: Your body positioning matters more than your swing.
• Keep the swing compact: Big swings results in late contact and errors.
• Prepare early: Late preparation is one of the most common mistakes.
• Focus on control, not power: Placement wins points, not force.

A reliable backhand stops your opponents from targeting your weak side, and gives you confidence in longer rallies.

Forehand vs Backhand: What’s the Real Difference?

In theory, they’re similar movements. In practice, forehand is a more natural shot, easier to generate control. Used more for building points. On the other hand (pun intended), backhand requires better positioning and timing. Often tested under pressure by the opponent.

Most players don’t lose points because of difficult shots, they lose them because of inconsistent basics.

When to Use Forehand vs Backhand in a Match?

This might sound obvious, but it’s not always instinctive at the beginning.

• Use your forehand whenever you have time and space
• Use your backhand when forced or when covering your side
• Prioritise consistency over aggressive shots

⠀As you improve, you’ll start using both more confidently and strategically.

Common Mistakes

If you’ve played a few games already, you’ll probably recognise some of these:

• Swinging too hard instead of controlling the ball
• Preparing too late
• Standing square instead of sideways
• Hitting the ball too close to the body
• Trying to play tennis-style (top spin) shots in padel

Padel rewards simplicity. The sooner you simplify your technique, the faster you improve. You don’t need complicated drills to improve quickly and get the foundations. Start with:

• Wall practice: builds consistency and timing
• Cross-court rallies: improves control and placement
• Slow-paced games: focus on technique, not winning

Even 20-30 minutes of targeted practice can make a noticeable difference. The difference between casual play and real improvement usually comes down to feedback and repetition. If you want to build a solid foundation:

• Find a coach
• Play structured games
• Practice specific shots (not just matches)

Explore coaches and courts in Dubai and start improving your game faster. You can also participate in group coaching sessions or one-on-one coaching with experienced, professional coaches. Whichever you choose, it will be rewarding!

What to Learn Next

Once your forehand and backhand feel consistent, the next step is:

• Using the back glass
• Volley
• Hitting overheads