In today's competitive padel scene, having a strong serve can significantly impact your game. In this post, we will delve into the insights shared by Frankie Langan, one of the top british players, on how to improve your padel serve and avoid common mistakes that players often make.
Frankie highlights that a frequent mistake among beginners is not following the ball after serving. Many players tend to stay back instead of rushing to the net. This lack of movement can hinder their ability to capitalize on the serve.
For intermediate players, the issue often lies in their approach after serving. They tend to hit the serve and then watch where it goes before moving forward. Instead, Frankie emphasizes the importance of a fluid motion where players should hit the ball and immediately run to the net. The goal is to transition quickly from point A to point B.
One of the first tips Frankie provides is to start with a high racket position. This allows players to hit the ball at a steeper angle, resulting in a more effective serve that pierces through the air when it hits the ground. A low preparation can lead to a floating serve, which is easier for opponents to return.
Another crucial tip is to bounce the ball in front of you. This technique helps generate momentum and prepares your body to move forward quickly after the serve.
During a practice session, I shared my concerns about my serve being too easy and casual. Frankie pointed out that my serve lacked intensity and follow-through, making it floaty and predictable for opponents. He suggested that I focus on bending my knees more and hitting the ball with a steeper angle to improve the speed and effectiveness of my serve.
Frankie advised me to ensure my body follows the ball's trajectory. If I hit the serve and my body falls in the direction of the ball, it helps create a more powerful slice. He also emphasized the importance of hitting the ball straight rather than slicing too much across it.
After refining my serve, Frankie and I engaged in a fun challenge to see who could knock over three bottles with our serves. The pressure was on, and I aimed to apply the tips Frankie had given me. As I focused on keeping my racket high and following through, I noticed a significant improvement in my serve.
Despite the pressure of the challenge, I felt more confident with my serves. However, as the competition heated up, I found myself slipping back into old habits. Frankie reminded me to stay focused on the techniques I had practiced, which helped me regain my composure.
During a tie-break game to 10, I observed how crucial a good serve is for setting up a strong position at the net. A well-executed serve not only puts you in a favorable position but also makes it difficult for your opponent to return effectively. Frankie reiterated that the goal is to make your serve unreturnable, allowing you to take control of the point.
In conclusion, mastering your padel serve requires practice, focus, and the willingness to adapt your technique. By avoiding common mistakes and implementing the tips shared by Frankie Langer, you can significantly enhance your serving skills in just 24 hours. Remember, the key is to stay committed to your practice and continuously refine your technique.