Padel is a modern racket sport that is increasingly popular in various countries, including Indonesia, because it combines the excitement of tennis and squash with a smaller court and easier-to-learn techniques.
Its growing popularity makes padel a sport that is not only enjoyable but also physically, mentally, and socially beneficial. For beginners, a thorough understanding of the rules, strategies, and equipment of padel is key to a smooth, safe, and optimal game.
What is Padel?
1. Definition of Padel Sport
Padel is a racket game typically played in doubles (2 vs. 2) using solid, unstringed padel rackets and a special ball similar to a tennis ball. The object of the game is to score points by bouncing the ball into the opponent's court according to the rules, while using the walls surrounding the court for strategic purposes.
Points are scored similarly to tennis, with a system of 15, 30, 40, and deuce, making it easy for players to follow the game. This basic understanding is essential for beginners to avoid confusion when trying padel.
2. Differences between Padel and Tennis and Squash
Padel differs from tennis and squash in several ways. Padel's court is smaller than tennis's, surrounded by walls for the ball to bounce off, while squash has an enclosed court with walls as the core.
Padel rackets are shorter and more solid, without strings, while tennis rackets are stringed, and squash rackets are also stringed, but lighter. Padel balls are slightly smaller and exert less pressure than tennis balls. These differences make padel easier for beginners to learn and offer a unique dynamic through the use of walls in game strategy.
3. Why is it called a rising modern sport?
Padel is considered a modern sport due to its ease of learning, the excitement of doubles play, and the growing trend of facilities. In Europe, Latin America, and now Indonesia, padel has become a popular recreational and competitive sport.
This sport is suitable for all ages because it combines social, fun, and competitive aspects, making it attractive to beginners and intermediate players who want to improve their skills.
Also read: 6 Types of Sports with Rackets that You Need to Know
History of Padel Sport
The Origins of Padel
Padel was first created by Enrique Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969. Corcuera modified the tennis court at his home into a smaller version, adding walls as a strategic element.
This innovation became the forerunner of modern padel, which combines aspects of tennis and squash with a unique gameplay. Padel emerged as a recreational sport that was both fun and competitive.
In addition to modifying the tennis court, Enrique Corcuera also adapted the rules of the game to simplify it and make it easier for all members of his family to understand. The walls he added became a distinctive feature, allowing the ball to bounce and creating new strategies, distinguishing padel from tennis and squash.
This concept made padel quickly attract attention among local people because of its balanced combination of fun and challenge.
2. Spread to Spain and Latin America
In the early 1970s, padel spread to Spain through the influence of aristocrats and royalty. In Latin America, particularly Argentina and Mexico, padel flourished due to its social and cultural acceptance. The game's fun and multifaceted nature made it popular among the wider community, both in urban areas and in local sports communities.
Padel began to gain popularity in exclusive Spanish clubs, gaining a prestigious status that encouraged its spread to major cities. In Argentina, padel became a popular social sport in parks and sports clubs, attracting a wide range of ages. This widespread cultural acceptance led to padel's growth not only as a recreational sport but also as a competitive sport with local and national tournaments.
3. Popularity in Europe and Asia, including Indonesia
Since the 2000s, padel has gained popularity in Europe and Asia. Indonesia is starting to see the emergence of padel courts and an active local community, making the sport a popular choice for both young and old. This trend aligns with the growing public interest in recreational sports that are fun and challenging, while also promoting physical and mental fitness.
In Europe, countries like Spain and Italy have become centers of padel growth, with the development of modern indoor and outdoor facilities. In Asia, including Indonesia, public interest is growing with the emergence of communities, local tournaments, and training for beginners and professionals. This popularity demonstrates that padel is not just a passing sport, but a sustainable recreational sport trend that appeals to all age groups.
Also read: The Differences between Padel and Tennis that You Need to Know
Basic Rules in Padel Sport
1. Number of Players in Padel Sport
Padel is typically played in doubles (2 vs. 2), although there is a singles (1 vs. 1) version with slightly different rules. The number of players affects game strategy, positioning, and interaction on the court. Beginners are advised to start with doubles to improve coordination and understand the basic rules.
2. Padel Sports Field
A padel court is rectangular, measuring 20x10 meters, surrounded by 3–4 meter-high walls. The court has a hard surface that allows the ball to bounce easily. The walls play a strategic role, as the ball can be bounced off them to confuse the opponent. Padel courts are smaller than tennis courts and, unlike squash, are completely enclosed, allowing beginners to quickly master positions and movements.
3. Rules of the Game in Padel Sports
The game begins with a serve from behind the service line, with the ball having to bounce on the court before hitting the opponent's wall. The scoring system is similar to tennis, including 15, 30, 40, and deuce. Other important rules include lets, fouls, and the position of the player when serving. Beginners should understand these rules to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable game.
Padel Sports Equipment
1. Padel Racket
Padel rackets are available in various shapes: round, drop, and diamond. They can be made of fiberglass, carbon, or hybrid, with weights tailored to the player's skill level. The racket affects control, power, and comfort, so beginners are advised to choose a lightweight, easy-to-handle racket to reduce the risk of injury.
2. Padel Ball
Padel balls are similar to tennis balls, but slightly smaller and with lower pressure. The ball bounces differently than tennis balls, requiring players to adjust their timing. Choosing the right ball simplifies strategy and improves accuracy.
3. Shoes & Supporting Accessories
Specialized padel shoes offer optimal grip for lateral movement on the court. Additional accessories such as racket grips, protectors, and bags enhance comfort and performance. Beginners are advised to use standard equipment to reduce the risk of injury and maximize their playing experience.
Also read: Complete Padel Racket Facts for Maximizing Your Play
Basic Padel Playing Techniques
Service
Serves are delivered from behind the service line, with the ball bouncing before crossing the net. The body should be stable, the racket swing should follow the direction of the ball, and the shot should be aimed at the opponent's court. Consistent serves help beginners start points effectively.
Groundstroke
Groundstrokes include forehand and backhand shots from the back of the court. Players can use the bounce of the wall to change the ball's direction. This technique requires hand-eye coordination and ball control for accuracy and power.
Volley and Smash
Volleys are played without bouncing the ball, usually near the net, to quickly attack the opponent. Smashes are used to close out points with a powerful overhead shot. Body position, timing, and focus on the ball are crucial for an effective shot.
Lob
Lobs are used to change the rhythm of the game and put pressure on the opponent at the net. The ball is aimed high, making it difficult for the opponent to return it. This technique is effective when facing pressure or trying to exploit open space on the opponent's court.
Benefits of Padel for Yourself
1. Benefits of Padel for Physical Health
Padel improves physical fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, agility, hand-eye coordination, and muscle strength. Lateral movements, smashes, and volleys target the muscle groups of the arms , legs, core, and trunk, supporting overall fitness.
Besides improving endurance and coordination, padel also contributes to effective calorie burning, thus supporting weight management. The rapid movements and sudden changes in direction train balance and reflexes, essential for everyday fitness. This activity also helps strengthen joints and core muscles, reducing the risk of injury during exercise.
2. Benefits of Padel for Mental Health
Playing padel helps relieve stress , improve focus, concentration, and quick thinking. Players learn to assess situations, make tactical decisions, and respond to pressure from their opponents, thus improving their mental health.
Padel encourages players to think strategically, predict their opponents' moves, and make quick decisions under pressure. This activity provides cognitive stimulation that improves concentration and short-term memory. Furthermore, successfully winning points or mastering new techniques can boost self-confidence and personal satisfaction.
3. Benefits of Padel for Social Activities
Padel encourages cooperation in doubles play and community interaction. Padel clubs provide a social platform, build relationships, and foster a healthy competitive environment, all while increasing motivation to play regularly.
Doubles play forces players to communicate and cooperate with partners, building strong team skills. The padel community frequently hosts social events, tournaments, and group training sessions, fostering bonding among members. These interactions also provide opportunities to meet new people and broaden social networks in a fun way.
Also read: Benefits of Padel Sports You Must Know: From a Healthy Heart to a Happy Mood
Tips for Beginners in Playing Padel
Beginners often struggle with ball control, miss the ball, or over-aggressively attack. These mistakes impact performance and increase the risk of wrist or elbow injuries. Some practical tips include:
- Start with a light and comfortable racket to master the basics of the shot.
- Focus on forehand, backhand, volley, and lob techniques.
- Understanding defensive and offensive positions on the field.
- Practice with a partner or coach to build coordination.
- Be patient and consistent to increase your confidence and make the game more enjoyable.
With these tips, beginners can enjoy padel safely, effectively and progressively.
Challenges and Prospects of Padel Sport
Padel faces several challenges, including limited adequate facilities in many areas, particularly standard courts for training and matches. Furthermore, the number of certified coaches remains limited, sometimes hindering technical and strategic development for beginners and intermediate players. The cost of equipment and access to clubs or courts also pose obstacles for those interested in trying or regularly playing padel.
Despite this, the outlook for padel remains very positive. The padel community continues to grow, with an increasing number of local and international tournaments being held, and modern recreational sport trends supporting its popularity. Development programs by clubs, federations, and equipment brands provide opportunities for players and the community to grow, improve their skills, and enjoy the sport to its fullest.
Enjoy Padel to the Fullest with Quality Equipment from SVRG
Padel is a modern sport that is fun, healthy, and accessible to a wide range of people. By understanding the history, basic rules, techniques, health benefits, and challenges and prospects of padel, players can enjoy the game to the fullest and develop their skills gradually. This sport combines a comprehensive range of physical, mental, and social aspects, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and active lifestyle.
Start trying padel, join the community, and choose quality equipment for an optimal playing experience. SVRG offers a variety of top-notch padel equipment, including rackets , balls , padel bags , and accessories, ensuring comfort, safety, and maximum performance on the court. Discover the complete collection at SVRG and experience the ultimate padel experience.
