PADEL: The Basics to Get Started - Guide for Beginners

Your new favorite sport – here comes Padel!

Padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports worldwide and is currently conquering courts all over the globe. The sport combines the simplicity of tennis with the dynamic action of squash – and that is exactly what makes Padel so popular. The game is quick to learn, instantly accessible, and provides exciting rallies that thrill beginners and advanced players alike. At OLIVER-SPORT, we are sharing our expertise here so that you can easily discover Padel for yourself – Feel the difference in your next match.

What is Padel?

Padel (often also called Padel tennis) is a modern racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Padel is usually played in doubles – making it the perfect social sport where team play, communication, and tactics take center stage.

Where does Padel tennis come from?

Padel was invented in Mexico in the 1960s and spread from there, especially via Spain, throughout Europe. Today, Padel is one of the major racket sports and is growing rapidly – an ideal time to get started and learn the basics.

Expert Insight: Padel is becoming popular so quickly because it fosters team spirit, the learning curve is very steep, and you experience real success on the court after just a short time.

How do you play Padel?

The key in Padel lies in the Padel court: a playing field with the exact dimensions of 10 x 20 m, surrounded by glass and mesh walls. These walls are not just boundaries, but an active part of the game – and make Padel so dynamic.

• Active wall use: After the ball has bounced on the ground once in your own half, it is allowed to touch the glass or mesh wall before you play it back. This is permitted – and tactically extremely exciting.
• Tactical effect: Using the walls extends rallies. As a result, Padel relies more heavily on tactics, positioning, and finesse rather than sheer power – perfect if you want to improve quickly.
• Most important wall rule: You must not let the ball hit the wall directly on the opponent's side before it has bounced on the ground.

Padel tennis: What do I need for it?

You naturally need a Padel racket. We at OLIVER are specialists in racket sports – and develop rackets that give you confidence, control, and power, whether you are just starting out or already playing tournaments.

Are you still unsure which racket suits your playing style? In our detailed guide to the perfect Padel racket choice, we explain exactly what the round, teardrop, and diamond racket shapes are all about and what you need to consider when buying.

What shoes do I need for Padel tennis?

You need Padel shoes with sufficient support and a sole suited for the surface. This maximizes grip, stability, and speed – three factors that decide many points in Padel.

What are the rules of Padel?

The Padel rules are easy to understand and ensure a fast game pace. That is exactly what makes getting started so pleasant – you quickly play "real" rallies and learn the nuances step by step.

• How do you score points in Padel? A team wins a point when the opposing team makes a mistake and fails to return the ball according to the rules. Examples: The ball bounces twice, the ball is hit directly into the mesh, or a serving fault occurs.
• How is the score counted? Scoring is like in tennis: 1 point: 15, two points: 30, three points: 40 – then the team wins the game. Matches usually consist of several sets (often Best-of-3). The first to win two sets wins the match.
• The Padel serve: The serve is hit below waist level and after the ball has bounced in your own court. The ball must be played diagonally into the opposite service box.

You can read more about this in the OLIVER blog post on scoring.

Why is Padel so popular?

Padel is not only action-packed but also really good for your health: The sport is easy on the joints and improves endurance, agility, and coordination. At the same time, playing doubles automatically trains your reaction time and tactical understanding.

You will see rapid progress because the technique is very intuitive, making Padel tennis a motivating sport. Start now with the right Padel racket from OLIVER and experience what is possible!