Lob technique: flat contact and body control

What this lesson covers

The lob serves as a primary tactical tool to transition from defense to offense, manage the pace of the point, and force opponents to cover more court. By placing the ball accurately, players create gaps in the net position and exhaust opponents over the course of a match. A well-executed lob also provides the necessary time to recover defensive positioning or advance toward the net after an opponent's bandeja.

Technically, the stroke requires keeping the elbow close to the body and preparing the racket head below the ball. The swing path remains straight from preparation through impact to the follow-through. Players must strike the ball flat to maintain control and avoid unwanted spin. Topspin or sidespin often results in a high rebound off the back glass, which allows opponents to counter-attack easily. Instead of relying on wrist movement, the power and height of the lob come from bending the knees and using a long, smooth finish.