Padel Shots→Overhead Shots

Bandeja

The signature padel shot - a sliced overhead that maintains net position.

Intermediate
Category: Overhead Shots
Difficulty: intermediate
Spanish: Bandeja

What is the Bandeja?

The bandeja (Spanish for "tray") is padel's signature overhead shot. It's a defensive smash hit with backspin, designed to retain your net position rather than win the point outright. The name comes from holding the racket face up like a waiter's tray.

Bandeja padel shot technique illustration

Illustration showing the bandeja technique

When to Hit the Bandeja

When you're lobbed at the net but the ball isn't ideal for a full smash. Your goal is to maintain net position and pressure opponents.

How to Hit the Bandeja

  1. 1
    Use a continental grip
  2. 2
    Position sideways with shoulders parallel to side fence
  3. 3
    Place racket above your shoulder, elbow at 90 degrees
  4. 4
    Make contact in front of your body at eye level
  5. 5
    Slice under the ball to create backspin
  6. 6
    Keep pace controlled - no need for power
  7. 7
    Use momentum to recover back to the net

Video Tutorials

How to Hit the Bandeja by Elite Padel

Bandeja Technique Tutorial by Tecnifibre Padel

Common Mistakes

  • Hitting too high (above the head)
  • Hitting on top of the ball instead of under it
  • Moving backward too late
  • Too much power (no time to recover)

Pro Tips

  • "Like skipping stones across water" - the motion is similar
  • "Like throwing a frisbee forehand-style"
  • Aim for corners to force glass bounces
  • The bandeja accounts for 69% of overheads in women's padel

Related Shots

Vibora

An aggressive overhead with heavy sidespin - the attacking cousin of the bandeja.

Rulo

Franco Stupaczuk's signature topspin overhead targeting the side fence.

Smash

A powerful overhead shot aimed at winning the point outright.

Ready to Practice the Bandeja?

Find a padel court near you and work on your bandeja technique.

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