The game in one minute
Padel is usually played as doubles on a 20 by 10 metre enclosed court. The ball can rebound from the glass after it bounces.
- Four players
- Underarm serve
- Glass walls in play
- Tennis-style scoring
How the serve works
Bounce the ball behind the service line, then serve underarm into the diagonally opposite service box.
How the walls work
Your return must bounce on the other side before it touches the surrounding wall or fence. On your own side, you can let the ball bounce and then use the glass to keep the rally going.
Scoring and court position
Padel uses tennis-style scoring. Work with your partner to cover the court and move forward together when you can.
- Tennis-style games and sets
- Partners move as a pair
- Net position creates pressure
- Patience often beats power
Playing with a partner
There are two players on each team. Talk to your partner about who will take each shot.
Your first session
Wear court shoes, bring water and arrive early enough to find the courts. Check your booking for equipment and entry details.
- Court shoes
- Water
- A padel racket
- Three other players
What to practise first
Practise a controlled serve and short swings. Call the ball early and give yourself space to play rebounds from the glass.