Here’s the Secret to the Perfect Lob
The effortless shot that wins points (and respect)
Last week we covered how to handle the serial lobber. This week we have some tips on how to be the lobber. You can catch your opponents off guard, and even set up some point-winning shots. In a recent high-level pro match, star Anna Bright lobbed 24 times! So we all might be seeing more lobs at open play.
The key to being a successful lobber isn’t just about smacking the ball high into the air. It’s about timing, placement, and knowing when to use it. A well-executed lob can be a game-changer, whether you’re trying to push opponents back from the kitchen line or buy yourself a little breathing room to reset your positioning.
First, Master Your Technique
A good lob starts with the right paddle motion, think low-to-high, fluid, and controlled. For defensive lobs, aim for a high, soft arc that drops in the backcourt, forcing your opponents back and giving you time to recover. For offensive lob shots, aim for the back corners or deep past your opponents, ideally going over their backhand shoulder. Practice your shot in slow motion, focusing on a smooth swing that naturally creates a tall, consistent arc.
Next, Read the Play
Timing is everything. Look for moments when your opponents are crowded at the non-volley zone or off balance, those are prime moments for a sneaky lob. As your opponent leans forward or prepares for a dink, send a well-placed lob over their heads to catch them out of position and take control of the point.
Control and Placement
Avoid the mistake of over-hitting. Your goal is a lob that clears their reach, giving it enough height to be safe but not so high that it’s easy for them to get back and return the shot easily.
Timing Your Shots
Use lob shots during dinking exchanges or when opponents are leaning forward. The element of surprise can be your best weapon. Reading their court positions and mobility will help you decide the perfect moment to elevate the game with a clever lob.
Practice and Confidence
The more you practice your lob, the more natural and deadly it becomes. Keep visual targets in mind (like the back line), focus on your footwork, and stay confident. Good court coverage, quick turns, and a smooth lob are what turn an average player into a real threat at the net.
With some finesse, your lob can become a go-to shot adding variety and excitement to every rally while giving you that extra edge to dominate the game.
