Padel Explained: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Whether you have an avid interest in racket sports or you are looking for a new activity to buoy your leisure time, Padel tennis is one sport that should inevitably secure a place on your list of potential hobbies to explore. Arguably one of the fastest-growing racket sports internationally, Padel is increasingly becoming a popular choice of sport for beginners and professionals alike. In this guide, we aim to demystify the game for beginners who are keen to try out Padel for the first time.

What is Padel?

Padel is a racquet sport that is played on an enclosed court, typically outdoors. The sport is played in doubles with players using paddles made of carbon fiber to hit a pressurized ball across a raised net. Padel has many similarities to its more famous cousin, tennis. However, it also has its unique features that provide a fun and challenging game style.

The Rules of Padel

Unlike Tennis or Squash with their complex rules, the game’s rules are relatively simple and designed with leisure players in mind. Two or four players can play the game with basic rules it follows:

– The ball may only touch the floor once before being returned back to the opposing team
– The ball can be hit off the court walls, otherwise known as the ‘valla’
– Unlike Tennis, the ball can be played before it bounces
– Padel has a double service, whereby players take it in turns to serve twice before rotating to the opposing team.
– Padel Tennis can be played as singles, but it has become more common to play with two people on each team.

Steps to playing the game:

Getting started on Padel doesn’t require much; you need to follow the basic steps to familiarize yourself with the game:

Step 1: Get a partner. Remember that the game is played in pairs, so you need to find a partner.

Step 2: Get the right equipment: You can access pads either online, or in sporting goods stores. Ensure your equipment is appropriate and comfortable for your play style.

Step 3: Practice: Once you have familiarized yourself with the rules and secured the right equipment, it is time to take the practice courts. Start by practicing movement, shots, serves, and the ball’s back of the wall.

The benefits of playing Padel:

Most people play Padel Tennis for fun and leisure, but the sport also boasts immense health benefits that make it a favorite activity for both amateurs and professionals. Padel involves constant movement, making it a great cardiovascular exercise that helps to strengthen your body and improve agility. Additionally, Padel also helps to improve strategic thinking, as the sport requires tactical placement of the ball to get the upper hand against your competitors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Padel Tennis is a fun, entertaining, and accessible sport for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, make new friends or enjoy something new together with your current ones, Padel’s a game perfect for you. This beginner’s guide has provided the basics to get you started in your Padel journey, so gear up, grab a partner, and hit the courts for some fun and action!