In this episode of Padel Up: Master the Shots, host Jack Mercer breaks down everything you need to know about groundstrokes in padel, covering how to generate power and precision from the back of the court. Whether you are a beginner building your foundations or an intermediate player looking to sharpen your technique, this episode delivers actionable coaching insight you can take straight to the court.

Jack covers the essential ready position and split step that gives you the reaction time to move into every shot with balance and intent. He walks through the mechanics of both the forehand and backhand groundstroke, explaining why compact swings, body rotation, and early preparation are far more effective than relying on arm strength alone. The episode also explores the padel slice, one of the most underused yet highly effective weapons in the game, and explains exactly how and when to deploy it to keep your opponents on the back foot.

One of the key themes of this episode is the balance between power and precision. Jack explains why patient, well-placed shots almost always outperform attempts to hit outright winners from deep, and how understanding the glass walls and court geometry can make you a smarter, more strategic player.

You will also find a practical cross-court groundstroke drill you can use in your next training session to build consistency and court awareness simultaneously.

If you want to improve your padel groundstrokes, control rallies from the back of the court, and develop the kind of technique that holds up under match pressure, this is the episode for you.

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