Published
Jun 28, 2022
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4 min read

Padel 101: A Beginner's Guide to the Rules of Padel

Padel is a fast-paced racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Played on a smaller court with solid walls, it's easy to learn and offers exciting rallies, making it an ideal game for beginners - let's get started!
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Padel 101: A Beginner's Guide to the Rules of Padel

Padel 101: A Beginner's Guide to the Rules of Padel

If you're looking for an exciting and social sport to dive into, Padel might just be the perfect match for you. Combining elements of tennis and squash, Padel is a fast-paced and engaging game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. To help you get started on your Padel journey, this beginner's guide will walk you through the basic rules of the game, ensuring that you step onto the court with confidence and understanding.

Court & Equipment

Padel is typically played on an enclosed court that measures 10 meters wide by 20 meters long. The court is surrounded by glass walls and wire mesh fencing, allowing players to use the walls as an integral part of the game. Padel is played with solid paddles and a depressurized tennis ball that has less bounce than a regular tennis ball.

Scoring and Serve:

Padel follows the same scoring system as tennis. The game is played in sets, and a set is won by the first team to reach six games, with a lead of at least two games. If the set reaches a 6-6 tie, a tiebreak is played to determine the winner. Unlike tennis, in Padel, the serve must be underhand and the server must bounce the ball on the ground before hitting it into the service box diagonally opposite.

Combining elements of tennis and squash, Padel is a fast-paced and engaging game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels.

Gameplay and Rules:

  • Padel is played in doubles, with two players on each team. The server initiates the point by serving diagonally to the opponent's service box.
  • The ball must be allowed to bounce once on each side before it can be hit off the walls. The ball can also be played directly without bouncing if it has passed the net at an angle.
  • The ball can be hit off any wall as long as it stays within the boundaries of the court. However, it must not touch the roof or any other structures.
  • Players must allow the ball to bounce before returning it to the opponent's side, except when volleying or hitting the ball directly off the serve.
  • Padel encourages strategic play, with players often using the walls to create angles and outmaneuver their opponents. However, the ball must always be hit before it passes the net and cannot be volleyed in the service box.

Let's Begin!

Now that you have a basic understanding of the rules of Padel, it's time to grab a paddle, find a partner, and step onto the court with confidence. Remember to practice good sportsmanship, communicate with your partner, and most importantly, have fun. Padel is not just a sport; it's an opportunity to bond with friends, enjoy some healthy competition, and stay active. So, go ahead and experience the excitement of Padel—a game that combines skill, strategy, and a whole lot of fun!

Kellie O'Toole
Founder of Beginner

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