Start Moving Before Your Opponent Hits
The Situation
You always feel late getting to the ball despite being fit enough.
What To Do
Read your opponent's body and racket preparation and start moving in the likely direction before they make contact. You should be already moving when the ball leaves their racket.
Why It Works
Legend Padel coaching identifies anticipation as 70% of positioning. Reading body language — open stance, dropping racket, shoulder rotation — gives you a half-second head start that transforms your court coverage. Fit players who wait for the ball are always late. Anticipating players who are less fit often cover more court.
Court Positioning
Opponent shown in backswing. Player shown already beginning to move in likely direction before contact is made.
Court View
Bird's-eye view — attacking net position
Skill Level
Never Both Players on the Same Side of the Court
During a rally you realize you and your partner are both on the same side of the court.
Never Stop in the Transition Zone
You are moving forward after a return and feel comfortable stopping between the service line and the net.
Split Step Before Every Opponent Shot
You are at the net or moving around the court and find yourself late to react to balls.