Let me guess—you’ve been hearing about a sport called “padel,” and you’re wondering what all the buzz is about.
Maybe your friends are talking about it, or perhaps you’ve spotted people playing on enclosed courts that look like a mix of tennis and squash.
Well, my friend, you’re not alone in your curiosity. Padel is the fastest-growing racket sport in the world, and it’s making waves for a good reason.
So, what is padel? Simply put, it’s a dynamic, social, and accessible sport that combines the best of tennis, squash, and a whole lot of fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned racket sport player or someone looking for a new way to stay active, padel has something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll explain how to play padel, the benefits of the game, and where to play padel in the UK. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite sport!
What is Padel?
The Basics
Padel is a racket sport typically played in doubles on an enclosed court that’s smaller than a tennis court. The court has walls, and these walls are not just for show—they’re part of the game, allowing the ball to bounce off them during play. This adds a unique twist to the gameplay, making it more dynamic and exciting.
The rackets used in padel are solid paddles with holes (no strings like in tennis), and the balls are similar to tennis balls but slightly less pressurized. The net is lower than in tennis, making it easier for beginners to pick up.
A Brief History
Padel was invented in Mexico in the 1960s by Enrique Corcuera, who modified his squash court to create the first padel court.
Over time, the sport gained popularity in Spain and Argentina before spreading across Europe and beyond. Today, it’s played by millions worldwide, with the UK quickly catching up to the craze.
How to Play Padel
The Court
If you’ve ever walked past a padel court, you’ve probably noticed how compact it looks. The court is enclosed with mesh and glass walls, creating an arena-like feel.
The walls aren’t just there for aesthetics—they’re integral to the game. Players can use them to keep rallies going, adding an extra layer of strategy to the sport.
Equipment
To get started with padel, you’ll need:
- A Padel Racket: Solid, perforated paddles that are lightweight and easy to handle.
- Padel Balls: Similar to tennis balls but slightly softer and less bouncy.
- Non-Marking Court Shoes: Essential for maintaining grip on the court’s surface.
Rules of the Game
The rules of padel are a mix of tennis and squash. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Scoring: Just like tennis—15, 30, 40, game.
- Serving: Always underhand and must bounce in the opposite service box.
- The Walls: The ball can bounce off the walls after hitting the ground, keeping the rally alive.
Padel is almost always played in doubles, so teamwork and communication are crucial. You’ll quickly learn that power isn’t everything—placement, angles, and strategy win the day.
Why You Should Try Padel
Fitness Benefits
Padel offers a full-body workout without feeling like a chore. It combines cardio, agility, and hand-eye coordination, making it a fantastic way to stay fit. Unlike running on a treadmill, you’ll actually enjoy moving around the court.
Social Fun
One of the best things about padel is how social it is. Because it’s played in doubles, you’ll spend the game laughing, strategizing, and maybe even high-fiving your partner. It’s the perfect way to meet new people or bond with friends.
Accessibility
Here’s the kicker: padel is easier to pick up than tennis. The smaller court and forgiving walls make it less intimidating for beginners, while still being challenging enough for seasoned players.
Where to Play Padel in the UK
The Rise of Padel in the UK
Padel is exploding in popularity across the UK, with new courts popping up in cities, towns, and even countryside clubs. Padel United UK has embraced the sport, helping to build awareness and infrastructure.
Top Locations
- London: You’ll find some of the UK’s best padel courts in London, often at exclusive clubs or public sports centers.
- Manchester: The North West is becoming a hotspot for padel enthusiasts.
- Scotland: Padel fever is spreading north, with new courts emerging in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Finding a Court
Not sure where to play padel in the UK? The Padel United UK website is a great resource. They have a “Find a Court” feature that lets you locate padel facilities near you.
Alternatively, social media and community groups are excellent ways to connect with local padel players and clubs. Also check out The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA).
Tips for Beginners
Getting Started
- Don’t overthink it—just book a court and have fun! Many clubs offer beginner lessons or taster sessions.
- Rent equipment at first. Once you fall in love with the sport (and you will), invest in your own gear.
Improving Your Skills
- Work on positioning: Stay close to the middle and communicate with your partner.
- Practice using the walls to your advantage—it’s a game-changer.
- Focus on placement and angles rather than power.
Staying Consistent
Join a local padel league or set up regular games with friends. The more you play, the better you’ll get—and the more fun you’ll have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Padel the Same as Paddle Tennis?
Nope! While the names sound similar, the two sports are entirely different. Paddle tennis uses a smaller court and has unique rules, whereas padel incorporates walls and is primarily played in doubles.
How Much Does It Cost to Play?
Court hire fees can range from £10 to £30 per hour, depending on the location. Many clubs also offer affordable memberships.
Can I Play Padel Outdoors?
Absolutely! There are outdoor and indoor padel courts, making it a year-round sport in the UK.
Padel Success Stories in the UK
Growing Padel Clubs
Clubs across the UK are adding padel courts to their facilities, recognizing the sport’s growing demand. Some even host weekly social events and tournaments to bring players together.
Player Testimonials
“I started playing padel six months ago, and I’m hooked. It’s the perfect mix of competition and fun!” – Sarah, London
“Padel has brought my family together. We play every weekend, and it’s always a blast.” – Mike, Manchester
Conclusion
Padel isn’t just a sport—it’s an experience. From its dynamic gameplay to its social nature, padel has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a casual player, or just curious about trying something new, padel is worth a shot.
Now that you know how to play padel and where to play padel in the UK, why not give it a try?
Grab a friend, book a court, and see for yourself why this sport is taking the world by storm. Who knows? You might just find your next obsession.
