The lob is a smart, underused shot. Hit it well and you can push a net-rusher back, buy time when you are scrambling, or win the point outright over their head. Here is how to hit an effective lob.
Quick answer: A lob is a shot hit high over your opponent, usually when they are at the net. There are two types: the offensive lob (with topspin, to win the point) and the defensive lob (high and deep, to buy time). Swing low to high, open the racket face slightly, and follow through upward to send the ball high and deep.
The Two Types of Lob
|
Type |
Purpose |
How it is hit |
|
Defensive lob |
Buy time when scrambling |
High and deep, safe margin, gives you time to recover |
|
Offensive lob |
Win the point over a net player |
Topspin lob that dips in behind them |
Knowing which one to hit is half the skill: defend when stretched, attack when balanced.
How to Hit a Lob, Step by Step
- Prepare like a groundstroke so your opponent cannot read the lob early.
- Open the racket face slightly to send the ball upward.
- Swing low to high, more vertical than a normal drive.
- Aim high and deep, targeting the back third of the court.
- Follow through upward to lift the ball.
- For an offensive topspin lob, brush up the back of the ball aggressively so it dips in after passing your opponent.
When to Use a Lob
- Against a net player: push them back and reset the point.
- When scrambling: a high defensive lob buys time to recover position.
- On a windy day or against tall net players: vary height and depth to disrupt them.
- To change pace: a surprise lob breaks your opponent’s rhythm.
Common Lob Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Too short: aim deeper, target the back of the court so it is not an easy smash.
- Telegraphing it: disguise the lob by preparing like a normal shot.
- Too low: get more height, especially on defense, to buy time.
- No topspin on the offensive lob: brush up so it dips in rather than floating out.
Drills to Practice the Lob
- Target the back zone: place a marker in the back third and aim lobs there.
- Defense drill: have a partner hit hard, and practice high, deep defensive lobs.
- Offensive lob drill: partner at the net, practice topspin lobs over them.
- Disguise practice: prepare identically for drives and lobs so they are hard to read.
The lob pairs well with net play, since it counters opponents who rush forward. Learn the basics in how to play tennis for beginners and the rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lob in tennis?
A shot hit high over your opponent, usually to push back a net player, buy time, or win the point over their head.
What is the difference between an offensive and defensive lob?
An offensive lob uses topspin to win the point over a net player; a defensive lob is high and deep to buy time when you are scrambling.
Why do my lobs get smashed?
Usually they are too short or too low. Aim higher and deeper, toward the back of the court.
How do I disguise a lob?
Prepare exactly like a normal groundstroke, then open the face and lift at the last moment.
Final Thoughts
The lob is a versatile shot that defends, resets, and attacks. Hit it high and deep, disguise it, and add topspin when you are on the attack. Drill your depth and it becomes a reliable answer to net players. Play your best in Olaben tennis apparel.
