Common Padel Mistakes: Rules You Must Avoid
3 min read
Common Padel Mistakes: Rules You Must Avoid
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting sport to play, padel may be just what you need. This racket sport is a hybrid of tennis and squash and has quickly gained popularity worldwide. But like any sport, there are rules that need to be followed to ensure fair play and safety on the court. In this article, we’ll cover some common padel mistakes and rules you must avoid to enjoy the game and improve your skills.
1. Serving from the Wrong Spot
One of the most common mistakes in padel is serving from the wrong spot. The server must stand behind the baseline and between the center mark and the sideline on the side they are serving. If the server stands outside these guidelines, the serve is considered a fault.
2. Not Letting the Ball Bounce Before Hitting It
In padel, unlike tennis, you must let the ball bounce on the court before hitting it. Failing to do so results in a point for the opposing team. Remember, the ball can only be hit once it has bounced on the court, and it must be hit before it bounces twice.
3. Interfering with Your Opponent’s Shot
Padel is a doubles game, so there will be times when you and your partner are at the net at the same time as your opponents. However, you cannot interfere with your opponent’s shot or distract them in any way. Doing so results in a loss of the point.
4. Not Calling Your Shots
Another important rule in padel is calling your shots. When hitting the ball, you should announce whether you will hit a lob or a drive shot. This is a sportsmanship rule that allows your opponents to prepare for your hit and make the necessary adjustments.
5. Hitting the Ball Over the Net and Outside the Court Boundaries
A common mistake in padel is hitting the ball over the net and outside the court boundaries. If this happens, it counts as a fault, and your opponents receive the point. Always make sure your shots stay within the court boundaries, and never try to hit the ball too hard.
6. Touching the Net or Crossing Over the Net
In padel, players are not allowed to touch the net or cross over the net into the opponent’s court. Doing so results in the loss of a point. Make sure you stay within your court boundaries and avoid touching the net at all costs.
7. Failing to Serve within the Time Limit
Finally, make sure you serve within the time limit. In padel, once you enter the court to start the game, you have 25 seconds to serve. Failing to serve within this time frame counts as a fault, and your opponents receive the point.
In conclusion, padel is a fun and exciting sport that requires you to follow specific rules to ensure fair play and safety on the court. To avoid making common padel mistakes, follow the rules and be mindful of your shots and movements on the court. Remember, the more you play, the better you become. Padel rules are easy to understand but may take time to master. So, don’t give up, keep practicing, and enjoy this fantastic sport!
