Where to stand
Padel is doubles, so you and your partner move as a pair — picture an invisible rope joining you, keeping you side by side. There are two basic positions:
- At the back, near the back glass — the defending position, where you let balls come off the wall.
- At the net — the attacking position, where points are usually won.
The single biggest idea in padel tactics: the team that controls the net usually wins the point. Much of learning padel is learning to move up to the net with your partner, and back again, safely.
The shots you will actually use
The groundstroke
A gentle forehand or backhand played after the ball has bounced once — your bread-and-butter shot from the back of the court. Keep the swing smooth and controlled.
The volley
Hitting the ball before it bounces, usually at the net. Resist the urge to swing hard — a short, controlled punch keeps the ball in and keeps you in control.
The lob
A high, soft shot that floats over the opponents' heads. In padel the lob is a friendly, vital shot: it pushes attackers back off the net and hands control to you. Beginners who lob well win a lot of points.
Playing off the wall
When a ball comes at you fast, you do not have to take it early. Let it pass you, bounce on the floor, rebound off the back glass, and hit it on the way back out. Patience beats panic.
A simple game plan for your first match
- Keep the ball in play. At beginner level, the team that makes fewer mistakes wins. Consistency beats power.
- Aim crosscourt. Hitting diagonally gives you more court to aim at and a lower net in the middle.
- Lob when they are at the net. If the opponents crowd the net, lift the ball over them.
- Move up together. When you get the chance, advance to the net with your partner — never one at a time.
- Do not try to smash. Control wins beginner games; big swings lose them.
Etiquette and safety
- Call the score out loud before each serve.
- Mind your partner's racket — you play close together, so keep your swings compact.
- Agree on golden point or normal deuce before the first game.
- Clear stray balls off the court between points so nobody slips.