Padel for Newbies: Understanding the Game

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking to learn more about Padel, or maybe you’re just curious about what this sport is all about. You’re in luck because in this article we’re going to cover everything you need to know to get started playing Padel.

What is Padel?

Padel is a racquet sport that is played on a court that is smaller than a tennis court and surrounded by walls. The sport was first played in Mexico in the 1960s and has since spread to over 80 countries across the world. What makes Padel so unique is that it’s a mix of tennis, squash, and racquetball, which makes it a very exciting and dynamic sport to play.

Now that you know what Padel is, let’s dive into some of the key elements of the game.

The Court

A Padel court is 10 meters wide and 20 meters long, which is smaller than a tennis court. The court is divided by a net that is 88 cm high in the center and 92 cm high at the posts. The court is also surrounded by walls that players can use to play the ball off, giving the sport a unique element that you won’t find in other racquet sports.

The Ball

The ball used in Padel is similar to a tennis ball, but it is slightly smaller and has less pressure. The lower pressure makes it easier to control and gives the ball a slower pace. This means that rallies in Padel tend to be longer than in other racquet sports, which makes it a very fun game to watch and play.

The Racquets

The racquets used in Padel are also unique. They are made of composite materials and have holes in the center, which helps to reduce wind resistance and increase the speed of the swing. The racquets are also shorter than tennis racquets and have a larger hitting surface, which makes it easier to control the ball.

The Scoring

The scoring in Padel is similar to tennis. A game consists of four points, and a player must win by two points. The first player to win six games wins the set, and the first player to win two sets wins the match.

The Rules

The rules of Padel are straightforward. A player cannot touch the net or the walls with their body or racquet during play. The ball must also bounce once on each side of the net before a player can hit it. If the ball hits the net and lands in the proper service box, it is considered a let and the point is replayed.

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of what Padel is, it’s time to get out there and give it a try. Padel is a fun and exciting sport that combines the best elements of tennis, squash, and racquetball. So grab a friend, head to a Padel court, and start practicing. With a little bit of practice and dedication, you’ll be playing like a pro in no time.