Backhand: technique, when to use it, and common mistakes
What It Is
The padel backhand is your non-dominant side stroke, used both for baseline rallies and defensive shots off the back glass. Unlike tennis, the padel backhand often involves letting the ball bounce off the back wall before striking, creating unique timing challenges.
When to Use It
- Baseline backhand: When the ball comes to your non-dominant side with enough pace for comfortable positioning
- Back-glass defence: When forced deep into your court, using the glass as your "practice partner" to set up your shot
Common Amateur Mistakes
Turning too late: Most players rotate their shoulders after the ball bounces off the glass, leaving insufficient time for proper technique. Start your turn as soon as you recognize it's going to your backhand side.
Poor glass positioning: Standing too close to the back wall limits your swing and timing. Position yourself 1-2 steps away from the glass.
Rushing the shot: Players often panic and hit immediately after the glass bounce. Let the ball come forward into your strike zone.
Essential Drill
Glass Touch Drill: Stand 2 steps from the back wall. Have your partner feed balls that bounce once on court, then off the glass. Focus on early shoulder turn and letting the ball travel forward before striking. Practice 15-20 balls, emphasizing rhythm over power. This builds the timing and positioning essential for effective backhand defence.
See your own backhand
Smash classifies the backhand (and 12 other padel shots) from a phone video of your match, with a confidence score on each call — so you can see how often you actually play it and how it holds up under pressure. Free to try.