Intermediate Lob Defense: Anticipation, Footwork, and Depth
The defensive lob saves points when you're pushed back. This guide covers footwork, timing, and depth consistency.
When you're pushed back or out of court, the lob is your survival tool. A good defensive lob buys time and resets the point. Anticipation: Recognize when you need to lob. If opponent is at net and you're pushed back, lob. If you're out of position, lob to reset. Footwork: As opponent hits toward you, move sideways to position. Your footwork should be quick and efficient—get to the ball with time to prepare. Stance: Side-on, knees bent, weight on balls of feet. Your swing is similar to a forehand drive but with an upward path. Accelerate through the ball with a lifting motion. Follow through upward. Contact height is important—contact lower on the racket face (closer to the handle) for better loft. Depth: Lob deep, 3-6 feet from the back wall. Too short and opponent smashes easily. Too long and it goes out. Many intermediate players lob too short defensively—aim deeper. Height: Hit with enough height to clear your opponent—5-8 feet above net height at the net line.
Progression steps
- 1Practice lob motion alone—upward swing path
- 2Hit 20 defensive lobs from a toss, focusing on depth
- 3Rally and opponent pushes you back—lob defensively
- 4Play matches—use lob as your survival shot when pushed back
Drill suggestions
- • Lob depth: Toss 15 balls, lob each—count how many land in back 6 feet
- • Defensive lob: Partner hits hard, you lob defensive returns
FAQs
When is a lob the best option?
Lob when you're pushed back or out of court. Lob when opponent is at net. Lob to reset the point.
How high should a defensive lob be?
5-8 feet above net height at the net line. High enough to clear opponent. Deep enough (3-6 ft from back wall) to force a difficult smash.
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