Flat shot technique: consistency and control

ChiquitaJan 6, 2020

Key takeaway from our Guru

Why should I learn to hit flat shots in padel?

You should learn to hit flat because it is a lower-risk shot with higher net clearance that naturally dips at the opponent's feet. It is easier to control than slice and allows you to disguise your intentions between a chiquita and a lob.

What this lesson covers

Hitting the ball flat provides higher net clearance compared to slice, which reduces the risk of errors during long rallies. A flat contact allows the ball to follow an arc that naturally dips toward the opponent's feet, making it a reliable choice for the chiquita. The technique remains simple and compact, requiring only a backswing and a clean forward strike, whereas slice demands precise timing and a downward cutting motion that increases the margin for error.

Flat shots offer greater versatility for targeting angles, including cross-court or down-the-line placements. When hitting a lob, a flat trajectory achieves more height and depth, creating a larger target area to clear the opponents. This approach also improves disguise, as the same initial backswing can transition into a fast flat ball to the body or a lob at the last second. Developing this skill early simplifies the game and provides a foundation for more complex tactical decisions as the level of play increases.

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Original video

The Padel School

Added on Apr 2, 2026

You must LEARN to Hit Flat...3 Reasons WHY!

Description

Players often hit with slice when they start in padel, but in this video we explain why we recommend learning to hit flat from the start! It is valuable to be able to slice, but the higher the level, the more players use flat technique for the majority of their shots. The 3 reasons are: 1. Less Risk 2. More Effective 3. Disguise The technique is usually simpler, so often players just need to practice directing the shot and they should be able to quickly integrate it into their game. We cover all the shots, go through the learning steps and give drills for each in this course: https://thepadelschool.com/courses/one-to-one-course/ To play better matches you need to understand the tactical principles in padel, so in this course we breakdown all the tactics: https://thepadelschool.com/courses/tactics-course/ If you enjoy learning more about padel, The Padel School blog has plenty of articles discussing various parts of the game: https://thepadelschool.com/blog/ Players that regularly compete and want to look a little deeper into their matchplay can access our analysis products here: https://thepadelschool.com/analysis/ Do you understand YOUR game? (Free Padel Assessment): https://improve.thepadelschool.com/padel-assessment Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide: https://thepadelschool.com/the-padel-players-guide/ YouTube – https://youtube.com/thepadelschool Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thepadelschool Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepadelschool Want to join us on court? https://thepadelschool.com/events Read our blogs: https://thepadelschool.com/blog/

Good for

Skill level

Beginner, Intermediate, High Intermediate

Court position

Backcourt

Secondary shot

Lob

Keywords

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