Welcome to Padel
Welcome to the fastest-growing racket sport in the world! You're about to discover why padel has captured the hearts of millions across 90+ countries.
Imagine combining the strategy of chess with the athleticism of tennis, played in a space the size of a large living room, surrounded by glass walls that become your best friends rather than boundaries to avoid. That's padel!
Social & Accessible
Always played in doubles. It's easier to learn than tennis and less intimidating than squash.
Strategic & Addictive
The walls create rallies that tennis players dream of. It's less about raw power, and more about placement.
Decoding the Court & Rules
The padel court is your stage, 20m long by 10m wide (significantly smaller than a tennis court), surrounded by 3m to 4m high walls. Unlike tennis where out-of-bounds ends points, in padel the walls keep the magic alive.
The Golden Rules
- Serving: Underhand only. The ball must be dropped, bounced, and hit below the waist into the opponent's diagonal service box.
- Wall play: The ball MUST hit the opponent's ground before hitting their walls. However, you can hit the ball off your own walls first to get it over the net.
- Scoring: Identical to tennis (15, 30, 40, Game). Sets are played to 6 games.
Fundamental Technique
1. The Continental Grip
Everything starts with how you hold the racket. The "Continental Grip" (or "hammer grip") is your universal tool. Imagine shaking hands with your racket. The "V" formed by your thumb and index finger should point toward the left edge of the racket handle. This single grip works for forehands, backhands, volleys, and serves!
2. The Forehand & Backhand Drive
Forehand: Turn your shoulders sideways, take the racket back early, step forward with the opposite foot, and contact the ball slightly in front of your body at waist height. Follow through naturally.
Backhand: We recommend the two-handed backhand for beginners. Your dominant hand guides direction, your non-dominant hand adds stability. Coil your body and drive through the ball with your legs and core.
3. Volleys at the Net
Volleys end points. Stand 2-3 feet from the net in your ready position. Keep your backswing minimal. Step toward the ball and "punch" through it with a firm wrist.
Making the Walls Your Allies
The back wall is your safety net, your second chance. Turn defensive situations into neutral or offensive opportunities by letting deep balls pass you, bounce on the floor, rebound off the glass, and then striking them as they move forward.
Back Wall Technique:
- Let it bounce: On the ground first, then the wall.
- Read the angle: Predict where the ball will be after contact. Hard hits bounce out further.
- Move your feet: Do not stand too close to the wall; follow the ball out.
- Stay balanced: Place the ball over power.
Positioning & First Match Strategy
Good positioning makes average shots look great. In doubles padel, you and your partner cover half the court each (left/right). You must move together like you are tied by a string. If your partner moves to the net to attack a short ball, you must move up with them.
Your First Match Checklist
- ✓ Consistency over power (keep 80% in play)
- ✓ 70% of first serves IN
- ✓ Hit cross-court frequently
- ✓ Communicate ("Mine!", "Yours!")
Ready for the Next Level?
Once you master the foundation, it's time to refine your tactical play.
Proceed to Intermediate Playbook