Padel looks deceptively simple—until you step onto the court. Smaller court, walls in play, and a game that’s as much about strategy as it is about reflexes. But don’t be fooled by its laid-back vibe. Underestimate it, and you’ll be gasping for air after five minutes.
This isn’t just another racket sport. It’s a social phenomenon, a workout in disguise, and a game where even beginners can hold their own.
What Is Padel? A Hybrid Sport with Global Appeal
Padel is a racket sport that mashes up the best bits of tennis and squash. Played in doubles on an enclosed court (about a third the size of a tennis court), it’s fast, tactical, and ridiculously fun. The rackets? Solid, perforated, and stringless—like oversized ping-pong paddles. The balls? Similar to tennis balls but with less pressure, making them easier to control.
A Brief History: From Mexico to Madrid
Born in Mexico in the 1960s, padel found its spiritual home in Spain. Today, it’s the second most popular sport there, right behind football. And it’s not just a Mediterranean craze. The UK’s padel scene is exploding, with courts popping up from London to Leeds. Even the US is catching on, though finding a court stateside still feels like spotting a unicorn.
Why Padel? The Unbeatable Appeal
- Social: Doubles-only format means banter is part of the game.
- Accessible: Easier to pick up than tennis, with a gentler learning curve.
- Cardio in Disguise: You’ll burn calories without realising it.
The Rules of Padel
Before you start whacking balls like a deranged Wimbledon hopeful, learn the basics.
Scoring System: Tennis’s Twin
Padel uses the same scoring as tennis—love, 15, 30, 40, game. Deuce at 40-40? Win by two points. Matches are usually best of three sets, with six games per set. Simple.
Serving: Underhand, Not Underwhelming
- Underhand only: No fancy overhead serves here. Hit below waist height.
- Diagonal bounce: Serve must land in the opposite service box.
- Wall wizardry: The ball can bounce off walls after hitting the ground. Hit the fence first? Fault.
Playing the Ball: Walls Are Your Friend
- One bounce rule: Let it bounce once before returning.
- Wall rebounds: Ball can hit any wall (even the mesh) and stay in play.
- No double bounces: Two bounces = lost point.
Losing Points: Avoid These Blunders
- Hitting the ball out of bounds (over the walls).
- Letting it bounce twice.
- Touching the net or invading the opponent’s side.
Essential Padel Gear: What You Actually Need
The Racket: Your Weapon of Choice
Padel rackets are short (around 18 inches), solid, and often made of carbon fibre or fibreglass. Key features:
- Perforated surface: For better control.
- Wrist strap: So you don’t accidentally launch it into next week.
The Balls: Tennis’s Softer Sibling
Slightly less pressure than tennis balls, making them slower and easier to handle. Pro tip: Opt for bright-coloured ones if you struggle with visibility.
Footwear: No, Trainers Won’t Cut It
Lateral support is crucial. Look for court shoes designed for quick side-to-side movements. Running shoes? Recipe for a twisted ankle.
Optional (But Recommended) Extras
- Sweatbands: You’ll sweat more than you think.
- Hydration pack: Padel is sneakily intense.
- A patient partner: Someone who won’t judge your first 20 failed serves.
How to Play Padel: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
1. Warm Up or Pay the Price
Padel is explosive. Skip the warm-up, and you’ll regret it. Try:
- Light jogging.
- Dynamic stretches (leg swings, arm circles).
- Practice shots to gauge the walls.
2. Serving: Keep It Low and Legal
- Stand behind the baseline.
- Bounce the ball once.
- Hit underhand, diagonally into the service box.
Pro tip: Use the walls. A serve that clips the side wall can be brutal to return.
3. Returning: Patience Is Key
Let the ball bounce once before hitting it. Too early? You’ll look like a frantic windmill.
4. The Rally: Where the Magic Happens
- Aim for corners: Force your opponents to scramble.
- Use the walls: A well-placed rebound can be unplayable.
- Mix it up: Drop shots, lobs, and volleys keep rivals guessing.
5. Volleys and Smashes: The Showstoppers
- Volleys: Hit before the ball bounces for quick, aggressive plays.
- Smashes: Downward power shots—just don’t send it into orbit.
6. Winning the Point: Know When It’s Over
Points end when:
- The ball bounces twice.
- Someone commits a fault (net touch, out-of-bounds).
Common Beginner Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Overhitting: Power Isn’t Everything
Padel rewards precision. A soft, angled shot often beats a wild smash.
2. Ignoring the Walls: They’re There for a Reason
New players treat walls like decorations. Use them.
3. Camping at the Back: Move Forward!
Staying near the net (the “volley zone”) gives you control.
4. Silent Doubles: Communication Is Key
Call your shots. Collisions are only funny in blooper reels.
Advanced Tactics to Dominate the Court
1. The Lob: A Strategic Reset
A high, deep lob forces opponents back, buying you time.
2. The Drop Shot: The Sneak Attack
A gentle tap just over the net? Brutally effective.
3. Wall Angles: The Ultimate Mind Game
Master rebounds that leave opponents scrambling.
4. The Fake-Out: Psychological Warfare
Pretend to smash, then gently dink it over. Pure evil.
Why Padel Is the Most Addictive Sport You’ll Try
It’s social, fast, and forgiving. Unlike tennis, you won’t spend half the match fetching balls. It’s competitive but casual—like pickleball with a caffeine hit.
Where to Play: Finding Your Local Court
In the UK, padel courts are multiplying. Search for a club near you. In the US, they’re rarer but growing—Miami and New York lead the charge.
Final Thought: Just Play
Padel hooks you fast. It’s easy to learn, impossible to master, and endlessly entertaining. Grab a racket, find a court, and prepare for obsession.
(And when you’re hooked, don’t say we didn’t warn you.) 🎯