Get Started
Get started
with padel
Simple explanations, practical tips and a step-by-step route for anyone who wants to try padel without the stress.
Start. Play. Progress. Belong.
In 2 minutes
Where to start right now
- 1
Understand the game
Take 5 minutes to learn what padel is and why it is easier than tennis.
- 2
Learn the rules
The basic rules and scoring — enough to step on court.
- 3
Pack your bag
Check what to wear for padel — no extra spending needed.
- 4
Book a court
Find a club nearby and book your first game with friends or a coach.
Beginner route
Three steps to your first game
Understand the game
Learn what padel is, how the rules work and how scoring goes.
What is padel and why is it so popular?
6 min readBasics
Padel rules in simple words
5 min readRules
How scoring works in padel
5 min readScoring
Is padel hard to learn?
4 min readStart
Padel vs tennis: what is the difference?
4 min readBasics
How many players do you need for padel?
3 min readBasics
Padel glossary: 24 terms for beginners
6 min readBasics
Get ready for your first game
Figure out what to bring and what to wear — without buying gear.
What to wear for padel
4 min readGear
What to bring to your first game
4 min readTips
Do you need your own racket?
5 min readGear
How to choose shoes for padel
5 min readGear
Racket shapes: round, teardrop or diamond
6 min readGear
Padel balls: which to choose
5 min readGear
Get on court
Learn what to expect from your first game and which mistakes to avoid.
Your first padel game: what to know
5 min readStart
How long does a padel game last?
3 min readPlanning
Common beginner mistakes in padel
5 min readMistakes
How to book a court: step by step
5 min readOrganising
How much padel costs
5 min readBudget
Your first training session
5 min readStart
How to find a coach or partner
5 min readOrganising
Basic shots for your first game
6 min readTechnique
Court etiquette: 10 unwritten rules
5 min readConduct
Main guide
What is padel and why is it so popular?
Everything that matters in one article: the game, the court, the racket and the ball, serving, match length and how padel compares to tennis and squash.
Read the full guide →Checklist
Your first game:
a quick checklist
Save this list so you forget nothing before stepping on court.
- Book a court or a group session
- Bring comfortable sports shoes
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early
- Ask someone to explain the rules
- Don’t buy a racket before your first game
- Write down what felt hard after the game
FAQ
Beginner FAQ
Is padel hard to learn?
No. Most beginners play with confidence after 2–3 visits. The rules are simple, the serve is underhand and the walls forgive mistakes.
How many players do you need?
The classic format is four players — two per team. Doubles is the standard and most popular format.
Do I need my own racket?
No. Almost every club rents rackets, often free for beginners. Buy your own later, once you play regularly.
How long does a game last?
Around 60–90 minutes. Courts are usually booked for 1–1.5 hours, which is enough for a full game with a warm-up.
Next step
Ready to get on court?
Find clubs, courts and coaches near you and book your first game.