Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of the sport, but might not know the padel rules. Originating in Mexico, the racket sport has transformed into a global and cultural sensation of the post-Millennium era. Combining elements of tennis and squash, padel offers a unique and engaging experience on the court, with the positives of accessibility, social connection, and health benefits in abundance.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player looking to improve your skills, at The Padel School we aim to cater for you. This in-depth guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of padel rules, basic gameplay, and strategies. For many, it’s the perfect place to start if you’re new to the burgeoning sport. On the other hand, you could be a seasoned padel player and perhaps may learn a tip or two about tactics or strategies.

Bookmark it, share it, use it to your heart’s content. Learn the basics, rules, and strategies of padel. Here we go….

What Are The Basic Padel Rules?

Padel Rules, Court, & Equipment

Padel is played on a court that measures 10m wide and 20m long, enclosed by glass walls and wire mesh. The court is divided into two halves by a net, with service boxes on each side. Padel rackets are solid, perforated, and smaller than tennis rackets, allowing for better control and manoeuvrability. The balls used in padel are similar to tennis balls but have less pressure.

Scoring System

Padel follows a points system like tennis, with love (0), 15, 30, 40, and game.

When the score reaches 40-40 (deuce), the next point won gives the player or team advantage, and if they win the subsequent point, they win the game.

Serving and Padel Rules

Padel rules specify the serve is underhand and must be hit diagonally, starting from the right-hand side of the court. The ball must bounce once on the serving side and then once on the receiving side before players can volley it. After that, the ball can be volleyed or played off the walls without letting it bounce.

What Are The Fundamental Techniques To Padel?

Grip and Stance

The continental grip is commonly used in padel, and is similar to the grip used in tennis serves and volleys. The ready position involves keeping the knees slightly bent, weight evenly distributed with racket up and ready to react to the incoming ball.

Basic Strokes

Forehand – The forehand stroke is executed by swinging the racket from the back to the front with the open side of the racket (think of the racket like your palm), making contact with the ball in front of the body.

Backhand – The backhand stroke involves hitting the ball on the opposite side of the body with the closed side of the racket (or back of the hand), with the racket swinging from back to front.

What Are The Different Types of Shots In Padel?

Volleys are played close to the net, without letting the ball bounce. These are a great way to finish off a rally and win the point.

Smashes are powerful overhead shots used to finish points, executed by hitting the ball with force downwards onto the opponent’s side.

The lob, a vital shot in padel, holds immense significance. Its purpose is to strategically alter the game’s dynamics by forcing your opponent backwards, changing the rhythm of the rally. This advantageous move allows you and your partner to secure a powerful attacking position at the net.

Furthermore, one of the more famous shots exclusive to padel is the Bandeja. Bandeja translates to ‘tray’ in Spanish, meaning you want your racket to look like it can hold a few glasses on it. It’s sort of a cross between a defensive smash and a forehand volley, used to keep the net position when you have been lobbed.

What Are The Strategies and Tactics Used In Padel?

Court Positioning

Maintaining good court positioning is crucial in padel and can enable gaining the upper hand against your opponent. Players generally aim to stay in the centre of their half of the court, covering their side and anticipating their opponents’ shots. At the back of the court you generally stay one big step behind the service line and at the front of the court usually a small step infront of the second post line. If you’re feeling more attacking, then getting close to the net can prove useful, but be wary of the lob. At the back of the court, you need to be sensible when selecting the right time to move forward or you will get stuck in the dreaded ‘No Mans Land’ and find yourself out of position.

Communication and Teamwork

Padel is a doubles game, and effective communication with your partner is vital.

Strategise and coordinate with your partner to cover the court effectively. It’s crucial to move as a unit, whilst capitalising on weaknesses in the opponents’ game. It’s also vital to communicate with your partner in terms of tactics and the strategies of your gameplay. Be careful though, there’s a fine line between coaching your partner and discussing tactics together. Focussing on tactics rather than technique usually eliminates the coaching element of gameplay.

Understanding Shot Selection

Using a mix of shots can keep your opponent off balance and out of control. It’s relatively easy to generate power from a padel racket, which is something beginners tend to rely on when starting. It’s vital to be able to control the ball though, using the speed of the ball to their advantage to exact control over an opponent. Slowing the tempo of the ball down allows you to achieve this.

For example, cross-court shots are effective for changing direction and creating openings. Likewise, lob shots can be used to move opponents back, while drop shots can catch them off guard. Players who think more tactically instead of using all their power, are generally the ones who develop more within the sport.

Padel is an incredibly engaging sport that offers a unique blend of skill, strategy, and teamwork. By understanding padel rules, the basics, and implementing effective strategies, you can elevate your game and enjoy the sport to its fullest. With practice and experience, you’ll develop the necessary skills to compete whilst having a great time in the process.

What do you think? Have we covered the basics of padel? We’d love to hear your thoughts, perhaps if you’re new to the sport or a seasoned padel player. Alternatively, if you have any questions get in touch with us now!