Return consistency: precision and swing length
Key takeaway from our Guru
How can I improve my padel return consistency?
Record your matches to identify exactly where your returns fail. Shorten your swing to handle fast volleys, and prioritize placing the ball at the opponent's feet rather than hitting with raw power.
What this lesson covers
The return of serve requires constant focus to avoid unforced errors after long rallies. Players often lose concentration and throw away points by hitting into the net. To improve, coaches track every return in matches to identify specific patterns of failure. Reducing the swing length is essential because modern padel volleys are faster and leave less time for preparation. A shorter, more compact swing prevents the need to compensate with the body, which often leads to errors.
Precision matters more than power. Aiming for the opponent's feet or the body forces them to play an uncomfortable volley. If the return lands in the opponent's hitting zone, it becomes an easy winner for them. Tactical adjustments depend on the opponent's position and handedness. When the ball is fast, use the opponent's pace to control the return. In dry, high-speed conditions, shorten the swing and play with less force to keep the ball in play. This systematic approach, moving from tracking mistakes to structured drills, helps players transition from high error rates to consistent, high-pressure returns.
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Original video
Added on Apr 2, 2026
TOP World Padel Tour Level RETURN training With Santiago Moreno and Mari Carmen Villalba
Description
Please subscribe, let's get 20K subscribers this year! The return and serve are one of the most important shots in the game. You can basically win a 40 point rally and than make return mistake.. It both counts as 1 point. I have been playing a FIP tournament here in Spain, and I realized how important the return actually is. If you are playing your return slightly too much in the hitting zone of your important you could lose the point instantly. Especially in higher level padel tournaments, like the highest ranked tournaments in your country, FIP, APT or WPT tournaments. So.. Even though you are able to get the ball back. Where should you play the ball? And what speed should you use? Just playing it soft towards the upcoming player was not enough, thats something that I came to realize ~ 10% discount if you visit my online padel shop. Go to www.racketteam.com and use code: otronivel ~ Would you like to learn more? Become a Otro Nivel channel member or special member, support us and become better! 👊🏼 Click & join ➠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrMuJTshdLiaUmbYJy8lSkA/join ~ Also find us on: Our Facebook group ➠https://www.facebook.com/groups/padeltips Our Facebook page ➠https://www.facebook.com/0tronivel 👊🏼 Become a supporter ➠https://www.facebook.com/becomesupporter/0tronivel ~ Our instagram page ➠https://www.instagram.com/0tronivel/ Sven's instagram page ➠https://www.instagram.com/svenboele/ Sven's tiktok➠ https://vm.tiktok.com/ZScj6vNr/
Good for
Skill level
Intermediate, High Intermediate, Advanced, High Advanced, Professional
Play style
Tactical
Secondary shot
Lob
Keywords
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