Intermediate Lob Defense: Anticipation, Footwork, and Depth

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.