Vibora, Rulo and Flat Smash: Shot Selection

What this lesson covers

The choice of overhead depends on the position of the ball relative to the body. When the ball is far from the shoulder, the vibora allows for a comfortable strike and a wide angle toward the corner. For balls positioned above the head, a flat smash provides an option to drive the ball toward the fence or the middle. The rulo serves as the defensive choice when the ball is behind the body or when moving backward is uncomfortable.

Technique for the vibora requires keeping the elbow at shoulder level, maintaining a closed wrist, and opening the chest to create space. A wide leg stance ensures balance and energy production. For the rulo, the ball must pass behind the shoulder to allow the racket to strike from high to low, preventing the ball from hitting the net. The flat smash involves a higher starting position and a downward motion to push the ball toward the fence. Proper decision-making regarding which shot to play is as vital as the execution itself, as poor choices often lead to an inability to recover court position.