Avoiding Common Mistakes in Padel Practice: A Guide for Beginners

Are you new to the exciting world of padel practice? Congratulations! You’re about to start a journey that will keep you fit, challenged, and entertained.

Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It’s played on a smaller court with walls that players can use to bounce the ball back into play.

If you’re eager to start practicing padel, there are some common mistakes you should avoid to make your progress smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s our guide to help you get on the right track from the beginning.

The wrong grip

One of the most frequent mistakes in padel practice is holding the racket with the wrong grip. Unlike tennis, in which most players use an Eastern or Western grip, padel requires a more neutral grip that allows better maneuverability.

When you hold the padel racket, make sure your non-dominant hand is placed in the middle of the handle, with your fingers slightly spread out. Your dominant hand should wrap around the handle, forming a V shape with your thumb and index finger.

Misjudging the ball’s bounce

Another mistake that beginners commonly make is misjudging the ball’s bounce. Since the ball can hit the walls, it can change direction and speed unexpectedly, making it hard to predict where it will go.

To hone your ability to read the ball’s bounce, practice hitting it against the walls and observe how it behaves. Pay attention to the angle and speed at which it comes back to you, and adjust accordingly.

Forgetting your partner

Padel is a doubles game, meaning you’ll need a partner to play with. However, some beginners tend to focus too much on their own performance and forget to communicate and coordinate with their teammate.

Remember that padel is a team sport that requires cooperation and synergy between the players. Make sure to call out for balls that your partner can’t reach, communicate about your strategies, and encourage each other.

Sticking to one shot

Finally, some beginners make the mistake of sticking to one shot and neglecting to learn different ones. While it’s natural to have a preferred shot, being too predictable will make it easier for your opponents to anticipate your moves.

Try to practice different shots, such as forehand and backhand volleys, lobs, slices, and smashes. This will make you a more versatile player and increase your chances of winning a point.

Conclusion

Padel practice is a thrilling and rewarding sport that can offer you many benefits both physically and mentally. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on your technique, communication, and strategy, you’ll be able to enjoy this game and improve your skills over time.

Remember, like any sport, padel requires dedication, patience, and practice. But with the right mindset and guidance, you’ll soon find yourself hitting impressive shots and having fun. Good luck!