New to padel?
Discover essential rules, top winning tips, and what to expect during your first padel game. Learn how to play, improve quickly, and have fun on the court.
Padel is gaining rapid popularity in the UK, offering a unique mix of tennis and squash but with a more social, accessible vibe. If you’re preparing for your first game, you’re in for an exciting experience. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to step onto the court with confidence—from essential rules and winning tips to what you can expect in your first match.
What is Padel?
Padel is a racket sport typically played in doubles on a smaller court than tennis, with walls that can be used during rallies. It’s known for its dynamic, fast-paced nature and is easier to pick up than tennis, making it perfect for beginners. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming to get competitive, padel’s mix of strategy, skill, and social interaction makes it a must-try sport.
Essential Padel Rules You Need to Know
Before diving into your first game, it’s important to understand the basic rules of padel. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
- Court Layout
Padel is typically played on a 10×20 metre enclosed court. The court is smaller than a tennis court and surrounded by glass walls and wire mesh fences, which players can use strategically during rallies. - Scoring System
The scoring in padel is similar to tennis: 15, 30, 40, and game. Matches are played in best-of-three sets, with six games per set. You need to win by two clear games, and tiebreaks are played at 6-6 in each set. - Serving Rules
- The serve is always underhand, with the ball bouncing once behind the service line before being struck.
- The server must aim diagonally into the opponent’s service box, and like tennis, you get two attempts.
- If the ball hits the net and lands in the correct service box, it’s a let, and the serve is retaken.
- Using the Walls
One unique feature of padel is the use of the surrounding walls. After the ball bounces on the court, it can hit the walls and still be in play. Mastering wall shots adds an exciting tactical element to the game.
Winning Tips for Your First Padel Game
To help you hit the ground running, here are some beginner-friendly tips to give you an edge during your first padel game:
- Master the Basics: Serve and Return
Focus on getting your serve right. It doesn’t need to be fast, but it does need to be accurate. Aim for consistency and try to place the ball in tricky spots. On the return, keep it simple. Focus on getting the ball back in play and use the walls to your advantage. - Stay Low and React Fast
Padel rewards players who stay low and balanced. By bending your knees, you’ll be able to react faster and move more smoothly around the court. Quick reflexes are key, especially when the ball comes off the walls unexpectedly. - Communicate with Your Partner
Padel is predominantly a doubles sport, so communication with your partner is crucial. Work on positioning and strategising with your teammate to cover the court efficiently. Make sure you discuss who takes which shots to avoid confusion during crucial moments. - Use the Lob Wisely
The lob is a strategic shot that can give you time to reposition and disrupt your opponents’ rhythm. By sending the ball high over their heads, you can force them to retreat and give yourself control of the net. - Control Over Power
Unlike tennis, where power can dominate, padel is about control. Keep your shots consistent and place the ball carefully to out-manoeuvre your opponents, rather than trying to hit winners on every point.
What to Expect During Your First Padel Game
Your first padel game will be an exhilarating mix of fast rallies, exciting wall bounces, and learning on the go. Here’s what to expect:
- A Fun, Social Atmosphere
Padel is a highly social game, and you’ll likely find yourself enjoying friendly banter with your opponents and partner. The laid-back nature of the game makes it a perfect sport to play with friends, whether you’re playing casually or competitively. - Fast-Paced, Dynamic Play
Thanks to the smaller court size and the use of walls, the ball moves quickly in padel. You might feel a bit overwhelmed at first, but that’s part of the fun! Don’t worry if you miss a few shots; it’s all part of the learning process. - Quick Improvement
One of the best aspects of padel is how quickly beginners can improve. After just a few games, you’ll start to get the hang of the shots and tactics, and your confidence will grow with every match.
Conclusion: Step onto the Court with Confidence
Padel is an incredibly rewarding sport, whether you’re playing for fitness, fun, or competition. By understanding the basic rules, focusing on communication with your partner, and keeping control of your shots, you’ll be well on your way to success in your first game. Ready to take the plunge? Book a court to start your journey today. Total Padel Hub is here to provide everything you need—from coaching to equipment—ensuring your first game is a fantastic experience.