What Is Padel Tennis and Why is Padel So Popular
If you’ve never heard of padel, you’re not alone, but you’ll want to know about it. We have a new Padel court open near us in Mansfield and it got me intrigued! So, what is it and why might you enjoy it? This fast-growing sport blends elements of tennis and squash for a fun, fast-paced activity that’s sweeping across the globe.
This post will explain what it is, why it’s gaining popularity, and how you can get started with this growing sport, even if you’ve never set foot on a court before.
What is Padel?
Padel (pronounced “pah-del”) is a racket sport that’s often described as a cross between tennis and squash. It’s typically played in doubles on an enclosed court that’s about a third the size of a tennis court. Unlike tennis, the walls are used as part of the game, similar to squash, adding an exciting twist to the gameplay. Not only that, but it’s a great sport and easy to learn.
Here are some basics of the sport to help paint the picture:
- Court Size: Courts are 20m long by 10m wide. The court is surrounded by glass and metal-mesh walls. The court is divided by a net, just like tennis, but the court is one third of the size.
- Scoring: Scoring is the same as in tennis (love, 15, 30, 40, game), so anyone familiar with tennis has a head start.
- Equipment: You use a stringless padel racquet, paddle or racket. Padel rackets are made from a variety of materials including carbon fibre, but are often made of a composite material, and a low-compression ball that’s similar to a tennis ball but slightly softer.
It is designed to be easy to pick up and play, making it accessible to people of all ages and athletic abilities.
Why is Padel so popular?
It is currently one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Here’s why it’s taking off and why you might want to join the movement of this game, which is like a mix between squash and tennis.
Accessible and Beginner-Friendly
Unlike some other sports that demand years of practice just to keep the ball in play (we’re looking at you, tennis), padel has a gentler learning curve. The smaller court size and use of walls make it easier to keep the ball in play, which means longer rallies and more fun, even for beginners.
Additionally, because matches are usually played in doubles, it is naturally social. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy a good game, making it perfect for casual players who want a mix of mild competition and laughs with friends.
A Great Workout for Body and Mind
One of the most appealing aspects of padel is its ability to provide a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like a chore. The fast-paced nature of the game keeps you moving, which improves cardio health, agility, and coordination.
Plus, the strategic use of walls and smart positioning keeps your brain engaged, putting a new spin (literally) on problem-solving under pressure.
Social and Inclusive
Padel removes barriers that often exist in sports. You can play it regardless of your age or fitness level, making it a fantastic activity for families, friends, and co-workers. Many clubs even host mixed-gender matches, which adds to the fun and inclusivity.
Global Growth and Appeal
From Spain along the Costa Del Sol to Sweden, and Argentina to the UK, it is exploding in popularity. There are now over 25 million players worldwide, and the number of courts is expanding rapidly. Fun fact, it’s so popular in Spain that it’s second only to football in terms of participation! Padel New Zealand is also popular, why has it taken so long to get to the UK?
How to get started with Padel Tennis?
If you’re curious to try, here’s how to get going with padel.
1. Find a Local Padel Court
Padel courts are often part of larger sports or tennis clubs. A quick search online or on local sports apps can help you locate one nearby. With padel growing in popularity, there are likely more options than you think.
2. Gear Up with Padel Equipment
You don’t need loads of fancy equipment to get started. Most clubs will rent out rackets and balls, so you can test the waters before investing in your own gear.
When you’re ready to buy your own equipment, focus on the essentials:
- Padel Racket: Look for one that’s lightweight and easy to handle if you’re a beginner, you can’t use tennis rackets, though.
- Padel Balls: These are slightly softer and less bouncy than tennis balls, designed for slower, controlled gameplay.
- Apparel: Comfortable clothing and non-marking court shoes with good grip will keep you moving safely.
3. Learn the Rules
While it is quick to learn, it’s worth understanding the rules to avoid confusion mid-game. The court with walls uses a playing field that includes the side walls, back wall, the net in the middle, and the side of the court is all part of the playing area. Played on an enclosed court means the balls can be played anywhere! Here are some key elements:
- The ball must bounce on the ground before hitting any walls.
- You can use the walls to return a shot, adding to the strategy.
- Matches are almost always played in doubles, so teamwork is crucial.
4. Join a Group or Class
Most clubs offer lessons or beginner-friendly group matches. Joining one of these is a great way to learn the ropes, find out what padel is like for you, meet fellow players, and improve your skills in a supportive environment.
5. Play (and Enjoy)
The best part? Just get out there and play. Remember, it is meant to be fun and sociable, so don’t take it too seriously at first.
Frequently asked questions
Here I want to answer some common FAQ’s about the sport.
Is padel the same as tennis?
No, although it is a racket sport similar to tennis, it has distinct differences. The court is smaller, the walls are used in play, and the gameplay is generally more accessible for beginners.
How is padel different from squash?
The sport of Padel is played on an outdoor court with a net, while squash is an indoor sport played in a four-walled court. Padel also uses a specific racket and ball designed for its unique gameplay.
Does padel require a lot of fitness?
Not at all! Padel is accessible for players of all fitness levels and ages. It’s a great way to improve your fitness without feeling like a workout.
Can kids play padel?
Absolutely. Many organisations offer lessons for children, making it a fantastic family-friendly sport. Soon, all kids will know about padel, and it will become popular with schools too. Whilst now they all ask, What is padel, soon it will be like football with everyone knowing.
Why You Should Add It to Your Life
Padel ticks all the boxes for a new sport to pick up, fun, social, inclusive, and a brilliant way to stay active. With its rise in popularity, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never held a racket before or if your athletic peak was chasing the ice cream van as a kid. Grab a racket, step onto a padel court, and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. You might just find your new favourite sport. What have you got to lose?
Have you played? Is it something you would be interested in? Do you have any questions that I might be able to answer? Let me know in the comments below.
