Match drills

Return and first volley drill

A match-realistic padel drill for improving return quality, transition movement, and the first volley.

Padel racket and balls on a court
Run the drill, record a clip, and review the result.

Many points are shaped by the return and the first volley. This drill trains that exact transition.

Setup

One pair serves. The returner plays cross-court and moves forward. The server’s partner volleys the next ball.

How to run it

  • Return with enough height and depth to buy time
  • Move forward only after a balanced return
  • Split-step before the first volley
  • Play the first volley with control
  • Continue the point after the first volley

Focus points

Players often rush forward without balance. The quality of the return matters more than sprinting to the net.

How to use Padel Coach App

Record the returner’s movement from the back. After uploading, look for feedback about timing, court position, and first-volley preparation.