How to Play Padel – A deep dive for rules and tips for padel

Padel, a sport that has quickly gained popularity in recent years, combines elements of tennis, squash, and racquetball into a unique and engaging game, but do you know how to play Padel? Originating in Mexico and spreading rapidly throughout Europe and beyond, this fast-paced activity has captured the interest of many. As a beginner, you might be curious about the basic rules and strategies to excel in this exciting game.

To play padel, you’ll need a specialized court that features artificial grass, surrounded by walls made of glass or a combination of glass and metal mesh. Similar to tennis, the court is divided into two equal halves by a net. The racquets used in padel have no strings, and the balls are similar to tennis balls but with slightly less pressure.

As you embark on your padel journey, focus on learning and mastering the essential techniques such as serves, returns, volleys, and smashes. Understanding the scoring system, which is nearly identical to that of tennis, will also be crucial in your progress. By practicing diligently and absorbing the nuances of padel, you’ll soon find yourself enjoying this captivating sport and, most importantly, having fun on the court.

From Sensei Padel you get everything you need to start playing!
From Sensei Padel you get everything you need to start playing!

How to play padel – Basics of Padel

To start playing padel, you need to understand the basic rules and equipment. The primary piece of equipment you’ll use is a padel racket, which is different from ordinary tennis rackets. Padel rackets are solid, usually made of composite material such as carbon fiber and don’t have strings.

Begin by focusing on your control over the padel racket. A proper grip is essential for the best playing experience. Hold the handle with both hands, your dominant hand on the bottom and the non-dominant hand above it. This grip will provide you with better control and accuracy on the court.

When it comes to striking the ball, consistency and precision are more important than power. Ideally, you should aim to hit the ball with the center of your padel racket. Doing so will give you better control and help you maintain a consistent rhythm during the game.

Mastering the serve is another critical aspect of padel. A padel serve must be underhand and hit diagonally across the court. Aim for a serve that is low, forcing your opponent to play after the ball has bounced off the glass. This will put them in a less favorable position and give you an advantage.

Lastly, be aware of your position on the court. Good footwork allows you to respond to different shots and improve your overall game. While playing in pairs, teamwork and communication are crucial for success in padel. Move in sync with your partner, covering each other’s weaknesses, and strive to create opportunities to attack.

By keeping these basics in mind and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled padel player.

The Padel Court

The padel court is an enclosed playing area specifically designed for playing padel. As you enter the court, you will notice a combination of glass walls and metallic fences surrounding the entire area. These walls and fences not only serve as boundaries but also play a crucial role in the gameplay.

The dimensions of a standard padel court measure 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Within these dimensions, you will find various lines and markings that signify different zones of the court. The baseline, service box, and center lines are a few examples.

Glass walls typically enclose the back and a portion of the sides of the court. These walls extend 3 meters high, allowing you to play off-the-wall shots. The remaining section of the sides, extending 4 meters long, is enclosed by metallic fences. The fences have a height of 4 meters, but their lower section (60-70 cm) is usually covered by a solid material to prevent the ball from getting stuck.

In addition to the glass walls and metallic fences, the padel court also features two doors for entrance and exit. Each door is located at the center of one of the longer metallic fences.

Now that you understand the structure and dimensions of the padel court, you will be better equipped to play and master this exciting sport. Remember, the unique features of the court, such as the glass walls, greatly impact the gameplay, making padel a challenging yet enjoyable game for players of all skill levels.

Court Dimensions

When playing padel, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the court. The Court Dimensions section will explain the padel court sizes and lines clearly, so you can play with confidence.

A standard padel court measures 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width. These dimensions are regulated by the International Padel Federation. The court is enclosed by walls and fences that vary in height. On the back and sides, the walls are made of glass or brick and stand 3 meters high. Meanwhile, the metal mesh fences extend to the halfway point of the court and reach a height of 4 meters.

You can find 4 full size courts from Sensei Padel.
You can find 4 full-size courts from Sensei Padel.

The court also features several vital lines that you should know. The service lines run parallel to the back walls and are located 3 meters away from it. There are two service boxes on each half of the court, measuring 9 square meters each. The center line runs along the middle of the court and divides the service boxes into two equal sections.

In addition, there are several lines painted on the playing surface. The baseline, which is located on each end of the court, marks the separation between the glass wall and the playing area. Perpendicular to the baseline, the sidelines are the boundaries of the playing area, ensuring that the ball stays within court limits.

Some padel courts may have a dashed line running parallel to the back wall; this is called the “no-volley zone.” Players are not allowed to hit the ball within the zone after it bounces on the floor.

Walls and Glass Construction

When playing padel, it’s essential to understand the walls and glass construction as it significantly impacts the game. Padel courts have transparent glass walls at the back and solid side walls, allowing for a unique mix of playing styles as you can play the ball off these walls.

The glass walls are made of tempered glass, typically 10 mm to 12 mm thick. They offer excellent visibility and safety, as they are designed to withstand impact without shattering. To help you play confidently, always ensure the glass is free from cracks or damage before starting a game.

In addition to the glass walls, the side walls are another crucial aspect of the court. They are usually made of concrete or bricks and have a height of about 3 meters. During the game, the side walls can be used to create rebound shots that can catch your opponents off guard.

When playing on a padel court with walls and glass construction, remember:

  • Learn how to use the walls to your advantage, such as hitting the ball against the side wall to create an unexpected angle.
  • Master the essential techniques for playing balls off the glass to maintain control over your shots.
  • Use the solid side walls to practice your shots, as these walls offer a consistent bounce and predictable ball trajectory.

By incorporating walls and glass construction into your padel strategy, you will add another layer to your game and improve your overall performance on the court. Practice using these unique court features, and you’ll soon find yourself outsmarting opponents with ease.

How to Play Padel

To start playing padel, you need to understand the basic rules and techniques. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the court, which is smaller than a tennis court and enclosed by walls or fences. We divided the game into four different categories. Serving, scoring, positioning and actually playing the game.

Remember, in padel, communication with your partner is essential. Discuss strategies and call-out shots to ensure smooth gameplay and avoid confusion on the court. Padel is an enjoyable and engaging sport that offers a great workout and fosters teamwork. By learning the basics of serving, scoring, positioning, and gameplay, you’ll soon be immersed in the exciting world of padel.

Serving in Padel

To start a point in padel, you need to serve the ball. Serving in padel is relatively simple, but there are still some rules and techniques to follow.

First, stand behind the service line, between the two glass walls. You should be close to the wall, but not touching it. Toss the ball behind you and let it bounce once. The ball must bounce inside your service square, and no part of your body or paddle should touch the lines.

Hit the ball after it bounces, keeping your paddle below your waist. Remember that underhand serves are mandatory in padel. Aim to strike the ball with a neutral grip and at a slight upward angle, sending it to the opponent’s service box diagonally across the court.

There are some crucial aspects to keep in mind for a legal serve:

  • Ball bounce: The ball must bounce only once in your service square before hitting it.
  • Overhead obstacles: If the ball hits any obstacles like roofs or lights, you will have to retake the serve.

Some tips to improve your serves:

  • Placement: Aim for the corners, making your opponent move and creating openings for you to attack.
  • Pace: Mix up the pace of your serves to keep your opponent guessing. A slow-paced ball can make it difficult for them to generate power.
  • Spin: Adding topspin or slice to your serves can make the ball bounce unpredictably, making it more challenging for the opponent to return.

Remember, practice makes perfect. By honing your serve, you’ll establish a solid foundation for your padel game. Keep experimenting with different techniques and strategies to find a serve that suits your style.

Practice makes your serves better every day.
Practice makes your serves better every day.

Golden Point

In padel, the Golden Point is a crucial moment in the game that can make a difference between winning and losing a set. The Golden Point occurs when both teams have reached deuce (ie: 40-40) in a game, and the next point will decide the winner of the game.

It’s essential to stay focused and confident during the Golden Point. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

  1. Stay calm and composed: Remember, padel is a mental game, and keeping your emotions under control is key. Take a deep breath, focus on the present moment, and visualize the desired outcome.
  2. Stick to your game plan: Trust your instincts and stick to your strengths. Don’t try anything too risky or new during a Golden Point – play to your capabilities.
  3. Positioning is key: Ensure you and your partner are in the correct position on the court to cover all possible shots. Communication with your partner is vital; let each other know your intentions before the point starts.
  4. Serve smartly: Place your serve accurately and with an appropriate pace. Targeting your opponent’s weak spots or taking them out of their comfort zone can result in a mistake or a weak return.
  5. Be aggressive and decisive: When you have the opportunity to attack, don’t hesitate. Look for weak returns from your opponents and put pressure on them by hitting powerful shots or well-placed volleys.

Practicing these tips and maintaining a confident, knowledgeable, and clear mindset during the Golden Point will increase your chances of success. Remember, padel is as much about mental strength as it is ab

Scoring System in Padel

In padel, the scoring system is similar to that of tennis. To begin, you serve from one side of the court, and the point is played until one team wins the rally. Each team consists of two players, and the server alternates after every game.

A game is won by the first team to reach four points, but with a margin of at least two points. These points are denominated as 15, 30, and 40, with the final point known as “game.” Here’s a breakdown of the scoring:

  • 0 points: Love
  • 1 point: 15
  • 2 points: 30
  • 3 points: 40
  • 4 points: Game (with a two-point lead)

If both teams reach 40 points, the game goes to a tiebreak, which is called a “deuce.” During a deuce, one team must win two consecutive points to claim the game.

When it comes to sets, the winning team must claim six games, again with a margin of at least two. If a set reaches 6-6, a tiebreak game is played, with the team that reaches seven points taking the set (provided they have a two-point lead). A padel match typically consists of the best of three sets.

Keep in mind, before you serve, announce the score out loud with your team’s score first. This ensures everyone is on the same page. Additionally, only the serving player can score points for your team. If your teammate serves and wins the point, it goes to the serving team’s score.

In summary, familiarize yourself with the 15 (one point), 30 (two points), and 40 (three points) scoring system and ensure you have a two-point lead to win a game. Win six games (with a two-game lead) to secure a set, and finally, win the best of three sets to emerge victorious in a padel match.

Size and Positioning

The key to playing padel effectively is understanding the proper size and positioning on the court. As you begin to play, it’s important to get familiar with the dimensions of a standard padel court, which is 20 meters long and 10 meters wide, enclosed by walls and a metallic fence.

The back walls are made of glass or cement and measure 4 meters high, while the side walls are 3 meters high, with the fence extending another meter. The net, positioned at the center, divides the court into two equal halves.

When playing padel, one of the most crucial aspects is maintaining your position within the court. Primarily, you should focus on staying near the center of the court, which allows you to react effectively to any ball movement.

There are two key positions you should be aware of:

  1. Attack position: When you find yourself closer to the net, your goal is to be aggressive and finish the point. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and be ready to move quickly. Remember to use your body momentum to generate power when hitting the ball.
  2. Defense position: In this position, you’re near the back glass wall. It’s essential to maintain a low center of gravity and stay on the balls of your feet for increased mobility. In this position, your main objective is to return the ball and neutralize your opponent’s attacks.

Switching between these positions during the game is essential for good padel strategy. Remember, practice makes perfect, so the more time you spend on the court, the more confident and knowledgeable you’ll become in your positioning and overall gameplay on padel court. Book now and start your next padel practise in Sensei padel.

How to play Padel – Rules

As you venture into the exciting sport of padel, it’s essential to understand the basic rules that govern the game. Padel is typically played in doubles, and the objective is to win the best of three sets.

Each set is played with six games, and to win a game, you need to reach four points with a two-point advantage. If both teams reach three points (40-40) in a single game, it is called a deuce, and a team must win two consecutive points to secure the game.

In the case of a tie at six games each, a tiebreak takes place to determine the set’s winner. The tiebreak follows the same scoring system as the rest of the match, and to win, you’ll need to reach seven points with a two-point advantage.

Padel has its unique serving rules. Starting with an underhand serve, you must bounce the ball behind the service line before hitting it diagonally into the opponent’s service box. Remember, your paddle must remain below waist level during the serve, and the ball must strike the back wall without touching the side walls.

During play, you are allowed to hit the ball off the walls, similar to squash. However, the ball should always bounce on the opponent’s court first before hitting the wall. Padel’s unique scoring system, borrowed from tennis, consists of 15, 30, and 40 points.

Additional padel rules

Some other important padel rules to keep in mind are:

  • Players cannot touch the net or enter the opponents’ court during play.
  • The ball can only bounce once on your side of the court, but there’s no limit to the number of wall touches on your opponent’s court.
  • Padel uses the ‘two bounce rule,’ which means players must hit the ball before it bounces twice on their side of the court.
  • If a player hits the ball outside the court boundaries, the opponents receive a point.

With these rules in mind, you are well on your way to enjoying the thrilling game of padel. Stay focused, keep practicing, and most importantly, have fun!

Rules while playing padel

To begin playing padel, you need to understand the basic rules and gameplay. As a doubles game, you’ll team up with a partner against another pair.

First, choose which team will serve. The server must stand behind the service line and bounce the ball before hitting it towards the opponent’s box diagonally across the court. If the ball lands in the correct box and the opponents touch it, the point continues, but if they don’t, it’s considered an ace. After every point, the server switches to the other service box, ensuring an equal number of serves on both sides.

During rallies, you can use your padel racket to hit the ball after it has bounced once on your side of the court. However, be mindful not to touch the net or stand within the opponent’s court while playing the ball. Using the walls is allowed and often strategically advantageous.

Essential scoring rules for Padel

  • Points are awarded as 15, 30, and 40, with the next point resulting in a win.
  • If both teams reach 40, it’s called a deuce. To win the game, a team must score two consecutive points after a deuce.
  • The first team to win six games with a margin of at least two games wins the set.
  • Padel matches are usually played as a best of three sets.

Additional tips during the game

  • Communication with your partner is crucial in padel, as it helps in maintaining proper positioning and covering each other’s weaknesses.
  • Develop a strong serve to put pressure on the opposing team and gain an upper hand early on in the point.
  • Focus on improving your volleys and smashes to maximize your offensive potential.

Remember, practice and experience are key to getting better at playing padel. Enjoy the game while learning and refining your skills.

Set

To begin playing padel, you need to understand the basic structure of a set. A set is a sequence of games with specific rules and objectives, similar to tennis. Padel matches are typically played best-of-three or best-of-five sets.

In each set, you and your partner work together to win games. The first duo to score six games with a two-game margin wins the set. If both teams reach six games, a tiebreak is played to determine the winner.

When serving in padel, make sure to follow the rules. Stand behind the service line and start your serve from below your waist. The serve is underhand and must bounce in your opponent’s correct service box.

During gameplay, keep your eye on the ball and anticipate its movement based on the angles and surfaces of the padel court. Utilize the walls to your advantage, either by playing the ball against the wall to outsmart your opponents or returning their shots more effectively.

Fundamental techniques for playing padel

  • Serve: Underhand and behind the service line.
  • Volley: Always attempt to hit the ball at its highest point.
  • Lob: Use a high shot to buy time or force your opponents out of position.
  • Chiquita: A short, soft shot to exploit open spaces on the court.
  • Smash: A powerful overhead shot to finish a point decisively.

With practice and strategic thinking, you’ll quickly improve your padel game. Emphasize communication with your partner and focus on minimizing errors. Good positional play and well-executed shot selection will propel you and your partner towards victory in each set.

Tiebreak

When playing padel, you might encounter a tiebreak situation. Don’t worry, this is a common and exciting part of the game. To help you navigate tiebreaks, we will outline the basic rules and strategies in this section.

A tiebreak occurs in padel when both teams reach a score of 6-6 in a set. The goal of a tiebreak is to determine the winner of the set, and it is played as a separate, shortened game.

How tiebreak starts

To start a tiebreak, the team that served first in the set begins by serving. The service rules are the same as during regular play, but there’s a change in the serving order. After the first point is played, the service shifts to the opposing team. They will serve for the next two points, and then the service will alternate between teams every two points until a winner is determined.

In a tiebreak, the team that scores 7 points first is usually declared the winner of the set, but there’s a catch here: a team must win by at least 2 points. So, if both teams reach 6 points in the tiebreak, the game continues until one team is leading by 2 points. Remember to keep track of the score, as it might differ from the usual scoring method during regular play.

How to win tiebreak in Padel

When playing a tiebreak in Padel, it is important to stay calm and focused. Try to prioritize consistency and accuracy rather than risky shots, as every point becomes crucial. Also, communication with your partner is key to winning tiebreaks. Make sure you’re both aware of each other’s position and backing each other up on the court.

Now that you’re familiar with the rules and basic strategies for playing tiebreaks in padel, you’ll be well-prepared to confidently handle these decisive moments in your games. Enjoy the challenge and remember to always play fair!

How to play padel – Equipment and Gear

When playing padel, it is essential to have the right equipment and gear to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience. In this section, we will discuss the main components you need, such as padel balls, padel rackets, and the materials used to make them.

From Sensei Padel you can rent your Racket and padel balls when you come to play!
From Sensei Padel you can rent your Racket and padel balls when you come to play!

Padel Ball

When playing padel, it is essential to use the correct type of ball. Padel balls are similar to tennis balls, but they have their differences.

Padel balls are slightly smaller and less pressurized than tennis balls. This allows for a better bounce and a more controlled game. You’ll notice that padel balls are made with a rubber core and soft felt covering, which provides a unique feel and performance on the padel court.

How to choose the best padel ball

  • Quality: Like any sports equipment, the quality of padel balls varies. High-quality balls offer better durability, bounce, and consistency, making them more enjoyable to play with. Popular padel ball brands include HEAD, Dunlop, and Wilson.
  • Surface: Different padel balls may perform better on specific court surfaces. Some balls are designed for use on artificial grass, while others are suited for hard or clay courts. Make sure to pick the ball that matches the surface you play on most frequently.
  • Altitude: The altitude of your padel court can also affect a ball’s performance. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, which causes the ball to bounce more. Some padel balls are designed explicitly for high-altitude play, so keep that in mind when selecting your balls.

To keep your padel balls in good condition, store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. Replace your balls regularly, as they can lose pressure and affect your game’s quality. When you notice a change in bounce, decreased speed, or the felt beginning to wear, it’s time to switch to a new ball.

Using the proper padel balls ensures you have a fair, enjoyable, and competitive game. Keep these factors in mind when selecting your balls, and you’ll be ready to play confidently and successfully on the padel court.

Padel Racket

Choosing the right padel racket is essential for your success on the court. Consider your playing style, experience level, and personal preferences when selecting one. There are multiple variables when choosing the right padel racket. Material, shape, weight, balance and grip might make it hard for the first-timer to figure out the right racket to choose from.

Materials

Padel rackets are typically made from composite materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a combination of both. Carbon fiber rackets offer more durability and power, while fiberglass rackets provide better control and flexibility. Try different materials to determine which suits your play style best.

Shape

Padel rackets come in three main shapes – teardrop, diamond, and round. Teardrop-shaped rackets offer a balance of power and control with a large sweet spot. Diamond-shaped rackets provide more power but require greater skill to control. Round-shaped rackets emphasize control and are recommended for beginners or those seeking consistency.

Weight

The weight of your padel racket affects maneuverability and comfort. Lighter rackets (350-365 grams) are easier to handle, providing increased control and faster swing speed. Heavier rackets (370-390 grams) offer more power, stability, and less vibration but may lead to fatigue. Test different weights to find the optimal choice for your play style and physical capabilities.

Balance

Padel racket balance can be categorized as head-heavy, head-light, or even balance. Head-heavy rackets provide more power and momentum, while head-light rackets give you greater control and maneuverability. An even balance offers a mix of power and control. Assess your strengths and preferences when selecting a balanced racket.

Grip

A comfortable grip is crucial for a better padel experience. Make sure your racket grip matches your hand size, allowing you to hold the racket firmly without straining your wrist or palm.

Remember that experimenting with different rackets will help you find the perfect one for your play style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to test and adjust until you feel confident with your choice.

Composite Materials

Most padel rackets are made from composite materials, which offer a combination of lightweight and strength. Popular materials used in padel rackets include carbon, fiberglass, and various polymers.

Carbon is the most common material used due to its light weight, high strength, and durability. Fiberglass tends to be more flexible, providing a different feel and more control for the player. Some rackets also incorporate Kevlar or other advanced materials for added durability and performance.

In summary, to play padel, you’ll need proper padel balls and a suitable padel racket. Choose a racket based on your skill level and playing style, keeping in mind the different materials used in the racket construction. With the right equipment, you can focus on improving your game and having a great time on the court. For more information and deep understanding about the padel racket structure, visit padel racket patent.

How to play padel – Playing techniques

When playing padel, mastering certain skills is crucial to success on the court. Here, you’ll learn valuable techniques to improve your game and become a more confident player.

First, let’s focus on your forehand and backhand strokes. These are the foundation of your game. To execute a solid forehand, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the net. As the ball approaches, rotate your hips and shoulders, and transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot, making contact with the ball. Your backhand stroke is similar but performed on your non-dominant side. Remember to keep your wrist firm and follow through with your swing for both strokes.

Volleys are an essential skill to add to your padel arsenal. Unlike groundstrokes, volleys involve hitting the ball before it bounces, typically executed close to the net. To perform a volley, use a shorter backswing and a strong grip to maintain control. Anticipation and quick reflexes are key when executing volleys.

Here are some key points to focus on while practicing these techniques:

  • Grip: Use the Continental grip for volleys and the Eastern grip for groundstrokes (forehand and backhand).
  • Stance: Maintain a balanced and agile stance before, during, and after shots.
  • Movement: Utilize short, quick steps to efficiently position yourself for each shot.
  • Footwork: Prioritize using the split-step to react quickly to incoming balls.
  • Ball positioning: Hit the ball at waist height for groundstrokes and at chest height for volleys.

It’s important to practice these techniques regularly to hone your skills. No matter your current skill level, dedicating time to perfecting your technique will lead to noticeable improvements on the court.

How to play padel – Forehand and Backhand

In padel, mastering your forehand and backhand shots are crucial to becoming a proficient player. Here are some pointers on how to execute these shots effectively:

Forehand: The forehand shot is typically the most comfortable and natural for players. To execute a forehand shot, follow these steps:

  1. Stand facing the net with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Hold the padel racket with an Eastern grip, placing the base knuckle of your index finger on the third bevel of the racket handle.
  3. As the ball approaches, rotate your shoulders and hips while shifting your weight to your back foot.
  4. Swing the racket forward, making contact with the ball in front of your body.
  5. Follow through with your swing, ensuring your racket finishes above your shoulder.

Remember to always keep your eye on the ball and focus on accuracy rather than power.

Backhand: The backhand shot might be slightly more challenging for beginners but is essential for effective gameplay. Here’s how to perform a backhand shot:

  1. Again, stand facing the net with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Hold the padel racket with a two-handed grip, with your dominant hand on the bottom and your non-dominant hand above it.
  3. As the ball approaches, pivot on your back foot and rotate your hips and shoulders.
  4. Extend your arms and swing the racket, making contact with the ball in front of your body.
  5. Follow through, ensuring your arms are fully extended and your racket finishes pointing towards your opponent’s court.

For both the forehand and backhand shots, practice is key. By working on your technique and timing, your shots will become more consistent and effective.

Having a correct grip makes your hit better.
Having a correct grip makes your hit better.

How to play padel – Volleys

In padel, volleys are an essential part of the game. To master this skill, you must follow a few key techniques and guidelines.

First, focus on your starting position. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, and bend your knees slightly. Your body should be facing the net, and your racket should be in front of you at chest level. Maintain a firm grip on your racket, ready to react quickly.

Forehand volley

For a forehand volley, pivot on your back foot and rotate your hips and shoulders towards the direction of the ball. As the ball approaches, keep your eye on it and stretch your arm forward, making contact with the ball using the center of your racket’s strings. Ensure your wrist remains firm and avoid excessive follow-through.

Backhand volley

For a backhand volley, keep both hands on the racket. Rotate your shoulders and hips such that your non-dominant shoulder is facing the net. Extend your arms and make contact with the ball at the center of your racket’s strings. Similar to the forehand volley, maintain a firm wrist and avoid extended follow-through.

How to play padel – Tips for effective volley

  • Timing is crucial; hit the ball out in front of you but not too high or low.
  • Focus on accuracy and placement over power.
  • Use your opponent’s pace to your advantage, redirecting the ball with minimal effort.
  • Aim your volleys towards the opponents’ feet or into open spaces on the court.
  • Anticipate your opponents’ shots, positioning yourself well in advance to intercept volleys.

Remember, practice is key to improving your volleys. Dedicate time to drills designed specifically for volley improvement, and you’ll see progress in your padel game. If you want to learn how to play padel from one of our coaches, please take a look of Sensei Padel coaches.

The position is the key when playing padel.
The position is the key when playing padel.

Difference between padel and tennis

When comparing padel and tennis, you might notice some similarities, but there are also significant differences. Here’s what sets the two sports apart.

Firstly, the court size and play area differ. Padel courts are smaller, measuring 20 x 10 meters, surrounded by glass walls and metallic fences. Tennis courts are larger, at 23.77 x 8.23 meters, and are often marked by lines and nets.

Padel rackets are solid, perforated and don’t have any strings, while tennis rackets are stringed and designed to have a larger surface area. Consequently, this impacts the power and technique required in each sport.

The ball used in padel is similar to the one used in tennis, but it has slightly lower pressure, making it less bouncy. This affects the gameplay, as padel relies more on strategy, while tennis puts more emphasis on power and fast serves.

Regarding the rules, padel players can use the walls to keep the ball in play, which adds an extra layer of complexity. Unlike tennis, padel allows players to let the ball bounce off the walls before striking it, just like in squash. Tennis, on the other hand, has the traditional rules where players can only let the ball bounce off the floor while scoring.

Scoring in padel follows the same system as tennis, with points increasing from 15, 30, and 40, followed by a game with sets and a match. The crucial difference is in serving. In padel, players serve underhand and diagonally, while tennis features overhand serves.

With these distinctions, it’s essential for you to understand the unique elements of padel and how it sets itself apart from tennis. The key lies in adapting your skills and strategies to each sport, as they offer different challenges and rewards.

Start your padel career in Sensei Padel

Sensei padel has finally opened its doors for padel enjoyers. With its set of four expansive courts, the club guarantees uninterrupted gameplay, regardless of the weather. Yet, Sensei Padel Phuket offers more than just a game; it’s a comprehensive journey.

Following a spirited match, participants can relax in either a classic Finnish sauna or experience a Thai sauna adjacent to the pool. Additionally, the club’s poolside provides an ideal setting for rejuvenation and leisurely post-game moments.

Book your next padel game from Sensei Padel and let the game begin!

Frequently Asked Questions

In padel, you play either singles or doubles on a court surrounded by walls. The objective is to score points by making the ball bounce twice in your opponent’s side or by hitting it out of their reach. Serve underhand, and remember that the ball must bounce before hitting the walls. Each player serves twice before alternating, and the game is won by the first team to reach six points.

To play padel, you’ll need a padel racket, which is solid and has no strings, and padel balls, which are slightly smaller and less pressurized than tennis balls. It’s also recommended to wear comfortable athletic clothing and proper court shoes for better grip.

When serving in padel, stand behind the service line and between the center and side lines. Toss the ball at waist height and hit it with an underhand motion. The ball must bounce in your opponent’s service box diagonally across from you, without touching the walls first. After the receiver returns the ball, it must bounce on your side before it hits any wall.

The main differences between padel singles and doubles are the court size and the number of players. Singles padel is played on a narrower court, requiring greater physical effort, speed, and precise shots. Doubles padel, on the other hand, involves two players on each team, emphasizing teamwork, positioning, and strategy.

Yes, you can use the walls in padel. In fact, it’s one of the sport’s defining features. After the ball bounces on the opponent’s side, it can hit the side or back walls and still be in play. This adds a unique element of strategy and unpredictability to the game.

To improve your padel skills, focus on understanding the fundamentals of the game – serving, returning, positioning, and wall play. Work on footwork and agility, as well as racket control and shot accuracy. Incorporate drills, exercises, and practice matches to polish your technique. Additionally, studying professional games and working with a padel coach can provide valuable insights for enhancing your skills.