Body smash
A smash aimed at an opponent's body, so they cannot get the racket on it cleanly.
When to play it
When an opponent stays close to the net on a short lob. When the gaps are covered.
How to play it
Pick the body, at the racket hip, not the head. Smash with control and a little pace. Get ready for the reply.
Common mistakes
Aiming at the head, which is dangerous. Smashing so hard you lose control.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the body smash legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14a: a ball that hits an opponent's body or clothing counts as a correct return, and they lose the point (Rule 13k). The conduct rules ask for fair play at all times, so keep the target low and never aim at the head.