The Art Of The Bandeja: When And Why To Use It

If you're serious about improving your padel game, mastering the bandeja is essential. 

Elegant yet strategic, the bandeja (Spanish for “tray”) is one of the most iconic and useful shots in padel. It's not about brute force or raw power - it's about control, positioning and keeping the upper hand during rallies.

We wanted to share our thoughts on what makes the bandeja so effective, when to use it and why it's a crucial weapon in your padel arsenal. 

What is the bandeja?

The bandeja is a defensive overhead shot that is typically played from mid-court or just behind it. Unlike a smash, which aims to finish the point outright, the bandeja is more about maintaining control and stopping your opponents from taking over the net.

The shot is hit with slice, causing the ball to stay low after bouncing. The name comes from the motion of the arm, where the racquet stays more or less horizontal, like serving a tray.

When to use the bandeja

1. When you're lobbed

The most common scenario for a bandeja is when you're lobbed and forced to move back from the net. 

Instead of retreating to the back wall and returning with a high ball, the bandeja allows you to intercept the lob earlier and keep your opponents pinned at the back of the court.

2. When you're off-balance

If you're not in a strong position to go for a powerful smash (perhaps you're running backward or not quite set), the bandeja is the safer option. 

It gives you time to recover and return to an aggressive net position.

3. When you want to reset the point

The bandeja helps to neutralise your opponent’s attack. 

Rather than risk giving them a short or high return to volley, the bandeja forces them to stay back and hit defensively.

Why the bandeja matters

Control

Padel isn’t just about attacking - it’s about staying in control. 

The bandeja prevents your opponents from stealing the net and keeps them under pressure.

Buys you time

The sliced trajectory and lower bounce of a well-executed bandeja give you time to reposition, recover your stance and prepare for the next shot.

Deception and variation

Because the bandeja can look similar to a smash or víbora, you can use it to disguise your intentions, keeping your opponents guessing.

How to practise the bandeja

• Start slow – Focus on technique over power. Work on timing, balance, and slice.
• Use footwork drills – Practise moving back quickly from the net and setting up in time to hit a smooth bandeja.
• Record yourself – Watch your form and make adjustments to ensure you're not dropping your racquet head or rushing the shot.
  
  

Common mistakes to avoid

• Hitting too flat – A flat bandeja bounces up, giving opponents a chance to counter-attack.
• Over hitting – Trying to hit a winner every time defeats the purpose. The bandeja is a control shot.
• Poor positioning – If you're too far back or misjudge the bounce, the bandeja loses its effectiveness.
  
  

Final thoughts

The bandeja is not flashy, but it’s a hallmark of smart, strategic padel. In the art of padel, it’s the brushstroke of a master.

It’s a shot that says, “I’m in control of this rally.” By using it wisely, you’ll frustrate your opponents and improve your consistency.

So next time you’re tempted to go for a wild smash, consider reaching for your trusty bandeja instead. 

Come and chat to one of the Padel39 coaching team if you would like to set up a lesson to improve your use of the bandeja.

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