Smash to the fence: three variations for shorter players
Key takeaway from our Guru
How can I hit a smash to the fence if I am short?
You must gain height by contacting the ball well above your head. Orient your body toward the fence rather than the net to ensure the ball lands in the target area.
What this lesson covers
Shorter players often struggle to reach the fence with a standard bandeja. To gain the necessary height, the first option is a flat, hook-style smash. Contact the ball high above the head with a fully extended arm, letting the arm follow through naturally in front of the body. Orient the chest toward the fence rather than facing the net to maintain comfort and control. This approach prioritizes placement over raw power.
Players with a tennis background can use a kick serve motion to generate lift. This topspin smash trajectory sends the ball upward before it drops toward the fence. A third variation applies when receiving a parallel lob that is not too deep. In this situation, use an intermediate vibora stroke to change the ball direction and target the fence. These techniques help players who lack height to effectively use the fence as a target.
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Original video
Added on Sep 19, 2026
Good for
Skill level
Beginner, Intermediate, High Intermediate
Court position
Right
Play style
Control
Secondary shot
Bandeja
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