Influence of hand-dominance and the game side on technique and tactical parameters in high-level padel

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of players’ hand dominance and game side on strokes’ distribution, direction and effectiveness in high-level padel. The sample included 8680 strokes corresponding to 1055 points from 9 national first category matches. Matches were analyzed through systematic observation. The results of this study showed that right-handed players made significantly more winners and cross-court strokes than left-handed players (p < .05). In addition, right-hand players play more down the line shots, while the left-side players play more cross court and winner shots (p < .05). Finally, changes in players’ tactical behaviors were observed depending player’s hand dominance (right-handed or left-handed) in the match. According to these findings, the hand dominance has an important role in players’ game style and effectiveness. These differences should be taken into account for designing optimal training programs in padel.