Both the offensive and defensive lobs are handy shots to have in your repertoire. Too often, though, players hit both lobs exactly alike. In fact, the two lobs are used for different purposes and should be hit differently. The offensive lob is used when your opponent is at the net. The ball should be hit just out of his reach, forcing him to retrieve the ball from the back court. It should be hit too high; otherwise you will give the opponent time to move under it to hit an overhead. On the offensive lob, hit the ball in an arc similar to that of the roof of the Houston Astrodome.
The defensive lob is used when your opponent is on the attack and you are in trouble. It should be hit high and deep, which will buy you some time to get back into position and make your opponent’s reply more difficult. When hitting a defensive lob, think about clearing a miniature version of the Empire State building, which will ensure that you get a high arc on the ball. Learn to hit an offensive and defensive lob, and your game will climb to new heights.