Bandeja technique: keeping the ball low

What this lesson covers

A bouncy bandeja often stems from four common errors. Contacting the ball behind the body forces an open racket face, while hitting at too high a contact point flattens the trajectory. Excessive power increases the rebound speed at the back glass. Most frequently, a bent elbow during the preparation causes the racket path to move upward rather than high to low, sending the ball into the air instead of keeping it deep and flat.

To correct these issues, move quickly to get behind the ball, allowing for a contact point at eye or forehead level in front of the body. Keep the arm fully extended during the preparation to ensure the racket travels from high to low through the back of the ball. Use video feedback to verify the position of the elbow, as players often believe the arm is extended when it remains bent. Practice with a visual target, such as a bench or tape on the glass, to aim for a low trajectory. Avoid stopping the racket prematurely, as this flattens the contact. Instead, maintain a slight slice and follow through to keep the ball low at the opponent's end. This approach suits players looking to prioritize control and net recovery over raw power.