Learn the Essential Padel Strokes: A Beginner’s Tutorial

So, you’ve decided to take up padel, but you’re not quite sure where to start. No worries! In this beginner’s tutorial, we’ll cover the basic paddle strokes you need to know to kickstart your padel journey.

The Forehand Stroke

The forehand stroke is one of the most important basic paddle strokes that every beginner should learn. To execute a proper forehand stroke, start by positioning yourself with your dominant side facing the net. Hold the paddle with both hands, with your dominant hand at the bottom of the grip and your non-dominant hand further up the handle. As the ball approaches, step forward with your dominant foot and swing the paddle in a fluid motion, making contact with the ball in front of your body.

The Backhand Stroke

Similar to the forehand stroke, the backhand stroke is a fundamental skill that every beginner should master. To execute a proper backhand stroke, position your body sideways to the net, with your non-dominant side facing the net. Hold the paddle with both hands, with your non-dominant hand at the bottom of the grip and your dominant hand further up the handle. As the ball approaches, step forward with your non-dominant foot and swing the paddle in a fluid motion, making contact with the ball on the non-dominant side of your body.

The Serving Stroke

The serving stroke is another essential skill that every beginner should practice. To execute a proper serve, start by positioning yourself at the back of the court, with one foot in front of the other and your non-dominant side facing the net. Hold the ball in your non-dominant hand and the paddle in your dominant hand. Toss the ball into the air and as it reaches its peak, swing the paddle in a fluid motion to make contact with the ball, sending it over the net and into the opposing court.

Putting It All Together

Now that you’ve learned the basic paddle strokes, it’s time to put them into practice. Find a partner or join a beginner’s clinic to start playing and honing your skills. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to make mistakes and keep working on your strokes. With time and dedication, you’ll be able to execute these basic paddle strokes with confidence and finesse.

In conclusion, mastering the basic paddle strokes is crucial for any beginner looking to excel in padel. By perfecting the forehand, backhand, and serving strokes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled padel player. So, grab your paddle and get out on the court to start practicing these essential skills today!