Play Fast, But Stay in Control
Speedups—those fast, aggressive shots meant to surprise your opponent—can change the momentum of a rally in an instant. Whether you’re taking the ball right after the bounce or out of the air, knowing when and how to speed things up is key to catching your opponent off guard without giving up control.
Why Speedup Technique Matters
Too often, players go for a speedup because they’re frustrated or impatient. But good speedups aren’t random—they’re calculated. A well-timed speedup puts pressure on your opponent and creates opportunities to win the point, but only if you execute it properly.
The decision to speed up should take into account the ball height, your court position, and what your opponent is doing. Hit at the wrong time—or with sloppy mechanics—and you’re likely to eat a counterattack. But when done well, a speedup can be a game-changer.
Off-the-Bounce Speedups
Strike fast, but stay grounded
Hitting a speedup just after the bounce—typically from a dink or soft ball—requires precision and timing. You’re often low to the ground and need to generate pace quickly with a compact stroke.
Keys to a Solid Off-the-Bounce Speedup:
Wait for the rise – Time your shot just as the ball is bouncing up, not on the way down.
Stay low – Bend your knees and keep a strong base so you don’t pop the ball up.
Compact swing – Use your wrist and forearm for a quick, controlled motion.
Aim at the body – Speedups off the bounce are often most effective when you jam your opponent.
Don’t force it. If the ball is too low, reset instead. Trying to speed up from a bad position usually backfires.
Out-of-the-Air Speedups
Catch them early and take away time
Speedups out of the air (volleys) can be lightning fast and extremely disruptive—especially if you can hit them before your opponent is fully set.
Keys to a Clean Volley Speedup:
Watch the paddle face – Read your opponent’s shot early and prep your paddle in front.
Punch, don’t swing – Use a quick, direct motion with minimal backswing.
Keep it in front – Make contact out in front of your body to stay in control.
Vary your placement – Go at the body, hips, or paddle shoulder—mix it up.
Volley speedups are most effective when the ball is attackable and your positioning allows for balance. Don’t lean or reach—be in position first.
Tips for Smart Speedups:
Don’t go 100% power—focus on placement and timing.
Use disguise—make your speedup look like a dink or reset until the last second.
Anticipate the counter—get your paddle back up immediately after hitting.
Mix in resets and dinks so your speedups don’t become predictable.
Play Fast, Think Smart
Speedups are exciting—but they only work when they’re intentional and controlled. Whether you're attacking off the bounce or out of the air, stay balanced, stay smart, and know your moment.
Next time you’re dinking at the net, don’t just hit soft for the sake of it. If the ball sits up and you're ready—go for it. And when you do, be sharp, be precise, and be ready for what comes next.
Play fast. But never rush.