8 Padel Drills You Can Practise With a Partner
Structured practice is the fastest route to improvement. These drills target the skills that matter most.
Playing matches is fun, but dedicated practice is where the real improvement happens. Here are eight drills that will sharpen your game efficiently.
1. The Volley Rally
Both players stand at the net and volley back and forth. Start slowly, focusing on control and soft hands. Gradually increase the pace. Goal: 50 consecutive volleys without the ball hitting the ground.
2. The Lob and Bandeja Drill
One player lobs continuously while the other practises their bandeja. Alternate after 10 shots. This drill builds the two most-used shots in padel simultaneously.
3. Cross-Court Groundstrokes
Both players rally from the baseline, keeping the ball cross-court. This improves consistency, direction and footwork. Switch to down-the-line after five minutes.
4. The Chiquita Challenge
One player stands at the net, the other at the baseline. The baseline player practises chiquitas — soft, low shots aimed at the net player's feet. The net player practises dropping volleys short. After 10 shots, switch roles.
5. Serve and Return
Practise serving to specific targets in the service box. The returner practises deep, controlled returns. Alternate serving after every six serves.
6. The Wall Drill
One player feeds the ball to hit the back wall. The other practises reading the bounce and playing controlled shots off the glass. This is the drill that transforms wall play from intimidating to instinctive.
7. Movement Drill
One player feeds balls alternately to the forehand and backhand sides. The other practises split steps, lateral movement and recovery between shots. Focus on footwork rather than shot quality.
8. Point Simulation
Play points starting from specific positions. For example: both pairs at the net, volleying until someone creates an opening. Or one pair at the net, one at the back, playing out the point. This bridges the gap between drills and match play.
How to Structure Practice
Spend 45 minutes on drills and 45 minutes on match play. Rotate through different drills each session to keep things fresh and develop a well-rounded game. Always warm up before drilling and cool down afterwards.