Elbow discomfort can be frustrating for padel players. This article looks at some playing and equipment factors worth considering, based on our experience as coaches. It is general information only. If you have persistent or significant pain, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
The Racket
The weight and feel of the racket can influence how comfortable it feels to play with. If you are struggling with elbow discomfort, it may be worth trying a lighter or softer-feeling racket and discussing suitable options with a coach or specialist retailer. We have also created videos on choosing a racket, including this guide.
The Balls
Ball condition can change the feel of a rally. Very old or low-pressure balls may require more effort to generate pace, while colder or wetter conditions can also make the ball feel heavier. If discomfort is an issue, pay attention to the equipment and conditions in which symptoms seem worse.
Playing Amount
Sudden increases in playing volume can be demanding on the body. Building your court time gradually and allowing recovery between heavy sessions is a more sensible approach than making a large jump in training load all at once.
The Grip
Grip size and how tightly you hold the racket can affect comfort. If the grip feels too small or too large, experiment carefully with overgrips or seek advice from a coach or specialist retailer.
Playing Style
If you hit every ball at maximum speed, your arm is repeatedly dealing with higher loads. Padel benefits from a mixture of speeds, control and placement, so developing a more varied style can help your game as well as reduce unnecessary effort.
Summary
Persistent elbow pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional. From a coaching perspective, racket choice, ball condition, training load, grip and playing style are all practical areas worth reviewing.
For structured player development, explore our Player Membership and player pathways.
.jpg)
