Your first time playing padel.

What to expect

Your first time on a padel court feels different from tennis, even though it looks similar. The court is smaller, the ball slower, and you're surrounded by glass walls. For beginners that's actually good news: you'll get into long rallies much faster than in tennis, which feels great right away.

"I expected a difficult sport to learn, but after ten minutes I was happily rallying already. I didn't see that coming."

What you need

• A padel racket — clubs often lend one for free the first time
• Non-marking sports shoes (no outdoor trainers)
• Comfortable sports clothing
• A partner and two opponents — padel is always played by four

The most common beginner mistake

Almost every new player tries to hit the ball as hard as in tennis. That doesn't work: the smaller court and the walls call for control, not power. Hit more gently and let the ball do the work — you'll win more points through placement than through speed.

The tip that makes the difference

Don't be afraid of the walls. The back wall is your friend: if the ball comes off it, you can simply return it once it bounces. Many beginners run away from a ball heading toward the wall — when actually that ball is coming right back to them.