Do you want to start playing paddle tennis or do you simply want to know more about one of the fastest growing sports in the world? Well, you've come to the right place.
We have everything you need to know: from the basic rules of padel to the equipment you need
What is the difference between paddle tennis and tennis?
A paddle tennis court has walls, so shots can be taken against them, just like in squash, to find tricky angles and creative shots to beat your opponents. Also, you can bounce the ball off a wall on your own side of the court, if you can get it to land on the other side!
Also, unlike tennis, when a ball is served it must bounce once off the ground and then hit under the arm. But don't worry, you still have a first and a second serve.
You can also volley the ball during a rally; however, the ball is considered "out" if it hits a wall before hitting the ground. In padel, a smash or overhead shot, if hit well, can bounce the ball out of play, but watch out as your opponents may run out the side gates to return the ball!
Padel court in front of tennis court
Padel courts are designed for four players and are approximately 25% smaller than a tennis court. The speed of the game, combined with the smaller size of a padel court, makes individual play difficult, and most padel matches are played in doubles.
Some padel courts are specially designed for singles, but around 90% of the world's padel courts are specifically for doubles. At a professional level, paddle tennis is played mainly in doubles, as demonstrated by the best professionals who compete on international circuits.
Paddle tips
Many players come to the paddle tennis court from tennis. These tips will help you improve your padel game. Padel is a sport for everyone.
There's a reason it's one of the fastest growing sports in the world: it's easy to pick up and much harder to put down. No matter the age or ability, everyone is welcome on the paddle tennis court.
It is not necessary to have played tennis or any other sport before: just grab a racket, a pair of doubles and play!
Tip #1
Practice with the walls. Many players new to the court try to volley the ball halfway behind the service line. It is very important that you get used to letting the ball bounce off the glass. You have to feel comfortable with the glass and gain confidence to improve your game.
Tip #2
Forget about power. In tennis, a powerful shot usually scores a point, but in paddle tennis it can be used against you. Stronger shots can give your opponents an advantage because they will come further off the glass and allow your opponent to come back closer to your side of the court. Try to be strategic and play with control.
Tip #3
Play in pairs. It may seem obvious but it is one of the most important things in paddle tennis. When you or your partner are not in the correct position, you will leave space on the track. So try to move forward and sideways together to cover the gaps together.
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