Open-stance forehand
A forehand played without stepping across, when there is no time to turn fully. The shoulders still turn even if the feet do not.
When to play it
On fast balls close to your body. When you need to recover quickly after the shot.
How to play it
Load your weight on the outside foot. Turn your shoulders and swing through as the weight shifts. Keep the swing compact.
Common mistakes
Hitting with the arm only and no shoulder turn. Leaning back, which sends the ball long.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the open-stance forehand legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 12.3: play the ball after one bounce, off the glass if you like, before it bounces again. It must reach the opponents' court, directly or off your own walls (Rule 14.1b), and must not hit their walls or fence first (Rule 13.1g).