How to Play Padel

You can learn enough padel to enjoy a full match in about ten minutes. This guide covers what happens in a game, where to stand, which shots to learn first, and the handful of habits that separate a beginner from someone who looks like they have played before.

Starting a game

Decide who serves first. The server stands behind the service line on the right, bounces the ball, and strikes it underarm at or below waist height into the diagonal service box. The receiver lets it bounce, then returns.

After each point the server switches sides, right and left, exactly as in tennis. Scoring is 15, 30, 40, game.

Where to stand

Padel positioning is simple to describe and takes a while to trust: you and your partner move together, side by side, as a pair. If one of you goes forward, both go forward. If one is pushed back, both drop back.

The net is where points are won. The serving pair's goal is to get to the net and stay there; the receiving pair's goal is to get them off it. Almost every tactical idea in padel is a version of one of those two things.

The shots worth learning first

In roughly the order they will help you:

  • The lob. The single most valuable shot in padel — it pushes opponents off the net and buys you the time to take it yourself.
  • The volley. Played from the net, controlled rather than hit hard, aimed at the opponents' feet.
  • The wall exit. Letting the ball pass you, come off the back glass and returning it — uncomfortable at first, essential immediately after.
  • The bandeja. A controlled overhead played with slice to keep you at the net, rather than a full smash. It is the shot that defines intermediate play.

Learning to use the walls

The instinct every newcomer has is to rush at a ball heading for the back glass. Do the opposite. Let it pass you, turn side-on, move with it, and take it after the rebound.

The ball comes off the glass slower and more predictably than it looks. Once you trust that, balls you would have chased down as a beginner become routine returns — and this single adjustment is the biggest jump most players make.

Common beginner mistakes

  • Hitting too hard. Power gets returned off the back wall; placement does not.
  • Standing in no man's land, between the service line and the net.
  • Drifting apart from your partner so a gap opens between you.
  • Attacking every overhead with a full smash instead of a controlled bandeja.
  • Backing away from the glass instead of moving with the ball.

Your first session

Book a court for 90 minutes, hire bats if you do not own one, and bring three others. Many clubs run beginner sessions that place you with players of a similar level, which is the fastest way in if you do not have a group.

FAQ

How long does a padel match take?
Most club matches run 60 to 90 minutes. Courts are typically booked in 60 or 90 minute slots.
Do I need my own bat to start?
No. Most clubs rent them by the hour, which is the sensible way to try a few shapes before buying.
What should I wear?
Normal sportswear and court shoes with decent grip. Most padel courts are artificial turf with sand.