How-to · 7 min
Padel doubles strategy: how the best teams really play
Beyond positioning rules - the actual tactical playbook that intermediate and advanced padel teams use to win matches.
Last updated: 15 May 2026
Key takeaways
- Target the weaker player's backhand 70% of the time.
- Lobs are the most underused winning shot in club padel.
- The team that controls the net controls the score.
Once positioning (see /guides/padel-court-positioning) is automatic, you can start playing real strategy. This is the playbook.
Target the weaker player's backhand
In every doubles team there is a weaker player. Find them in the warm-up and hit 70% of attacking balls to their backhand. Persistent targeting wins points and breaks confidence.
Use the lob as a weapon, not a defence
- Offensive lob - over the net player's head when they crowd the net.
- Defensive lob - buys time to recover to the back wall.
- Reset lob - neutralises after a strong opponent attack.
Win the net
The team at the net wins ~70% of points at club level. Every neutral exchange should be aimed at getting both of you to the net, not at winning the point outright.
Shot selection by court position
| You are at... | Best shot | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| The net | Volley deep, bandeja the lob | Smashing deep lobs |
| No-man's land | Lob and recover | Half-volleys |
| The back wall | Lob or low drive cross-court | High forehands down the line |
Communicate every point
- Call 'mine' or 'yours' on every centre ball.
- Agree pre-point who covers a lob.
- Change ends mentally - most pairs default to fixed sides; swap if your forehand is on the wrong side.
Frequently asked questions
Should I always go to the net?
Yes, eventually. The ideal point sees both players reach the net by the third shot and stay there.
How do I beat a team that lobs everything?
Move forward more aggressively after your serve, bandeja deep lobs back, and only smash lobs that bounce in the front half of the court.