Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK and for good reason. It’s a fun mix of tennis and squash, played in doubles on a smaller court surrounded by glass and mesh walls. Those walls keep the ball in play for longer rallies, which makes the game fast, social, and easy to enjoy from day one.
If you’re wondering how to start with padel, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. You’ll learn the basics of the game, the essential equipment, simple rules, and beginner-friendly techniques. Additionally, we’ll cover common mistakes to avoid and tips for improving your skills on the court. With the beginner padel rules explained in a straightforward manner, you’ll quickly gain confidence and enjoy playing. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to join friends or take lessons and immerse yourself in this exciting sport.
What is padel and why it’s so popular.
Padel is a doubles racquet sport that mixes tennis and squash. The court is smaller than a tennis court and surrounded by glass and mesh walls. These walls keep the ball in play longer and make rallies more exciting.
The game started in Mexico in the late 1960s, created by Enrique Corcuera. It quickly spread to Spain and Latin America, and now it’s growing fast in the UK. New courts are opening across the country every year.
If you’d like to read the full story, here’s more on who invented padel.
Padel is easy to learn and suits all ages. The smaller court, underhand serve, and slower ball make it less physically demanding than tennis. The doubles format keeps it social and fun from the very first game.
Padel court and rules
Court layout
A padel court is 20 metres long and 10 metres wide, with glass or mesh walls up to 3 metres high. A net divides the court into two halves, each with service boxes for serving.
For a full breakdown of measurements and setup, see our guide on padel court dimensions.
Walls in play
The walls keep rallies going. You can hit the ball after it bounces off them, just like in squash.
Serving rules
Serves are underhand and must bounce before being hit. The ball must land diagonally in your opponent’s service box. You get two attempts – fault twice and the point goes to the other team.
Scoring
Scoring works like tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. Matches are usually best of three sets, with tie-breaks if needed. Some clubs use a golden point at deuce to decide the game.
Out of bounds
If the ball hits the ceiling or flies over the walls, it’s out.
Essential padel equipment for beginners
Racket
Beginner rackets weigh around 360–380 grams and feel light in the hand. Shapes include:
- round – best control, ideal for beginners
- teardrop – a mix of control and power
- diamond – more power, better for advanced players
Materials are usually carbon fibre, fibreglass, or a mix. Expect to pay £50–£100 for a good starter racket from brands like Head, Wilson, or Bullpadel.
Shoes and clothing
Choose court shoes with good ankle support and non-marking soles. Nike, Adidas, and Asics all make padel-specific models. Wear light, breathable clothes for comfort.
Accessories
Bring padel balls, water, and a towel. A bag with racket compartments keeps your gear organised.
Fundamental techniques
Grip and stance
Use the continental grip. It’s versatile for all shots. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and racket up ready.
You can find more details on how it works in our article about the continental grip in padel.
Forehand and backhand
Turn your body to the side for each shot. For forehand, rotate right (right-handers). For backhand, rotate left. Swing smoothly and aim for control over power.
Volleys
Play these close to the net before the ball bounces. Keep the racket high and use short swings for accuracy.
Advanced shots (when you’re ready)
- bandeja – a high defensive shot to push opponents back
- víbora – a sliced, angled shot to surprise them
Beginner strategy and positioning
Defensive play: stay a few steps behind the service line when under pressure. This gives you more time to react and return powerful shots.
Offensive play: move towards the net when you have control of the rally. From here, you can volley and put pressure on your opponents.
Communicate: talk with your partner before and during points. Agree on who takes lobs, centre balls, and net shots so you cover the court efficiently.
Read your opponents: watch their body position and shot patterns. If one player struggles with a certain side, target it to win more points.
Common beginner mistakes
Holding the racket too tight: a stiff grip reduces control and makes it harder to adjust your shots. Keep your hand relaxed.
Standing flat-footed: staying still slows your reaction time. Keep your feet light and ready to move.
Misusing walls: hitting too hard makes the ball rebound unpredictably. Focus on control and placement when using the walls.
Poor communication: silence can lead to confusion and missed shots. Call out balls clearly so you and your partner work as a team.
FAQ
What is padel and how is it played?
Padel is a racquet sport played on a court with walls. It’s like squash but different. Players hit the ball over the net into the opponent’s court.
What are the basic rules of padel?
Padel’s basic rules include serving and scoring. A game is best two out of three sets. The serve is underhand, and the ball must bounce before being hit.
What equipment do I need to play padel?
You need a padel racket, comfy clothes and shoes, and balls. Rackets are light and have holes to cut wind.
How do I choose the right padel racket?
Look at weight, balance, and grip size. Choose one that feels right in your hand and matches your style.
What are the most common mistakes beginners make when learning how to play padel?
Beginners often hit the ball out of bounds. They also don’t talk to their partner or stand in the right place.
How can I improve my padel game?
Practice often, focusing on technique and footwork. Work on your fitness and agility too.
Where can I play padel in the UK?
Padel is growing in the UK. Look online for clubs and facilities. Check your local sports centre too.
How much does it cost to play padel?
Costs vary by facility and membership. Clubs offer pay-and-play, membership, and coaching.
Is padel suitable for beginners?
Yes, padel is great for beginners. It’s easy to learn and fun. Clubs offer coaching for new players.
What are the benefits of playing padel?
Padel boosts fitness, agility, and coordination. It’s a fun way to stay active and meet people.
