What Is Padel? | Complete Guide to Rules, Gear & How to Play

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is padel?”, you’re not alone. Padel is a fast-growing racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, offering an exciting and social playing experience. Unlike traditional tennis rackets, padel uses solid, perforated rackets and is played on an enclosed court with walls. The sport has gained worldwide popularity due to its easy-to-learn nature and thrilling rallies. Whether you're new to racket sports or looking for something fresh, here’s everything you need to know about padel.

1. Origins And History Of Padel

Padel was invented in Mexico in the late 1960s by Enrique Corcuera, who created a small enclosed court in his backyard. The sport quickly gained traction in Spain and Argentina, eventually expanding across Europe and other parts of the world. Today, international competitions and governing bodies, such as the International Padel Federation, help regulate and promote the game globally.

2. How Padel Is Played

Padel is typically played in doubles on a 20m x 10m enclosed court with glass walls, which players can use to rebound the ball—much like in squash. The game follows similar scoring rules to tennis, but with a few modifications, such as an underarm serve. The smaller court and enclosed design make the game faster and more dynamic than traditional paddle tennis.

3. Padel Court And Equipment

A padel court is unique, featuring transparent walls and a net similar to tennis but at a lower height. The essential paddle tennis equipment includes:

Padel Racket: Unlike a tennis racket, a padel racket is solid, perforated, and slightly shorter, providing more conPadeltrol and maneuverability.
Paddle Tennis Balls: Padel balls resemble tennis balls but have slightly lower pressure, making them slower and easier to control.
Proper Footwear: Non-marking shoes with good grip are recommended for the artificial turf surface used in most padel courts.

4. Key Techniques And Strategies

Mastering padel requires a mix of power, control, and strategic use of the walls. Some essential techniques include:

Basic strokes: Forehand and backhand shots, volleys, and smashes.
Wall rebounds: Using the court’s walls to create tricky angles and outplay opponents.
Smart positioning: Staying close to the net for quick volleys while being ready to defend.

5. Why Padel Is Gaining Popularity

Padel has become a global sensation because:

It is easier to learn than tennis, making it accessible for players of all skill levels.
The social aspect makes it fun for casual and competitive play.
The fast-paced rallies create an exciting and engaging experience.
Many tennis players find it a refreshing alternative to paddle tennis, with a unique mix of power and strategy.

6. How To Get Started With Padel

If you’re ready to try padel, here’s how to begin:

Find a local padel court: Many cities now have dedicated clubs or multi-sport facilities with padel courts.
Get the right gear: Invest in a quality padel racket, paddle tennis balls, and suitable shoes.
Learn the basics: Join beginner sessions or play casually with friends to get a feel for the game.

Conclusion

Now that you know what padel is, it’s time to experience this exciting sport firsthand. With its unique mix of paddle tennis and squash-style gameplay, padel is rapidly growing in popularity. Whether you’re looking for a fun social activity or a competitive sport, padel offers something for everyone. Grab your paddle tennis equipment, hit the court, and enjoy the fast-paced thrill of padel!