The Bandeja in padel is considered a defensive shot, more specifically a defensive smash, with the main purpose of helping the player recover their position close to the net.
Where does the name Bandeja come from?
The Spanish word “bandeja” translates to “tray.” In earlier years, the shot resembled the motion of someone carrying a tray, due to the open racket face during the swing. The name stuck, and today millions of padel players around the world use the term bandeja to describe this shot.
Embed from Getty ImagesBandeja technique and when it is used in a padel match
Unlike shots such as the vibora, the bandeja is a defensive option used to regain positioning near the net, which is the attacking zone. Starting from the ready position with the correct grip, once you recognize that the opponent has played a lob, you prepare similarly to a smash. Rotate your body, take the racket back and high, with the racket tip pointing upward and the racket face oriented toward the side of the court. The non-dominant arm stays raised to help track the ball, while small adjustment steps allow you to move backward until contact is made in front of the body, around head height.
After contact, the racket continues through the shot, and by transferring your weight forward toward the ball, you move back into position near the net, ready for the next shot.
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