10 Common Beginner Mistakes in Padel (and How to Avoid Them)

Just started playing padel? You’re probably already hooked on how fun it is but like every sport, beginners tend to make the same small mistakes that slow their progress. The good news? They’re all easy to fix once you know what to look for.

Here are the 10 most common beginner mistakes in padel, and how to correct them so you can improve faster and enjoy every match.

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1. Standing Too Close to the Net

It’s tempting to move forward after every shot, but if you’re too close to the net, you’ll have no time to react to lobs or smashes.
Fix it: Stay roughly halfway between the service line and the net unless you’re actively attacking. Hold your ground and be ready to move in or back, depending on the point.

2. Playing Like It’s Tennis

Many tennis players step onto a padel court and hit hard, flat shots—but that approach doesn’t work here. Padel rewards control and placement over power.
Fix it: Focus on consistency and learning to use slice. Keep the ball in play rather than going for winners too early.

3. Ignoring the Walls

Walls are your best friend in padel, not your enemy! Beginners often freeze when the ball rebounds, unsure how to respond.
Fix it: Practice letting the ball bounce off the glass before hitting it. It gives you more time and helps reset the point.

4. Poor Court Positioning

Many beginners drift too far back or get stuck in no-man’s-land between defense and attack.
Fix it: When defending, stay just behind the service line and move as a pair. When attacking, both players should advance together toward the net.

5. Lack of Communication in Doubles

Padel is all about teamwork. Without talking, you’ll end up covering the same shots—or missing easy ones.
Fix it: Communicate constantly. Call “mine” or “yours,” and decide who takes lobs or middle balls before the match starts.

6. Not Using the Lob

Beginners often forget about one of the smartest shots in padel: the lob. It’s perfect for resetting the point and getting opponents away from the net.
Fix it: Use the lob when you’re under pressure or when both opponents are positioned close to the net.

7. Overhitting the Ball

Trying to smash every ball might feel satisfying—but it often leads to unforced errors or easy counterattacks.
Fix it: Play with margin and focus on accuracy. Only go for power when you’re in the right position near the net.

8. Not Preparing Early

Padel points move fast, so you need your racket up and ready before the ball reaches you.
Fix it: Keep your racket high and your body sideways as you anticipate the shot. A small preparation change can improve your consistency instantl

9. Forgetting About the Partner’s Position

Many beginners hit as if they’re alone on court, leaving big gaps uncovered.
Fix it: Always move in sync with your partner—if they move right, you shift right. The key is to defend and attack as a unit.

10. Losing Patience

Padel is a tactical game. Beginners sometimes rush points instead of building them carefully.
Fix it: Slow down the game, wait for short balls, and choose the right moment to attack. Patience wins more points than power ever will.

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Final Thoughts

Every padel player starts by making these same mistakes. What matters is learning from them. Once you focus on positioning, teamwork, and smart shot selection, your game improves fast—and padel becomes even more enjoyable.

So next time you’re on court, keep these tips in mind, play smart, and enjoy the rally.

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