Padel is easy to start, but a little technique makes a big difference. The shots resemble tennis, but the racket is shorter, you play off the walls and control matters more than power.
Grip and stance
Use the continental grip (hammer grip): it lets you play forehand, backhand and volley without switching. Stay on bent knees, weight forward, racket in front of you.
The 5 basic shots
Forehand and backhand (two-handed for beginners) are your base. The volley is a short block at the net. The bandeja is padel’s signature overhead at eye level. The serve is underarm, below waist height.
“Padel is won with control and placement, not big hits. Technique before power.”
Using the walls
Wait for the ball, let it come off the wall and play it back calmly. Patience is a beginner’s biggest weapon.
Drills
Grip and stance (no ball)
Hold the continental grip and rehearse the ready stance until it feels natural.
Forehand against a wall
Hit calm forehands from 3–4 metres. Goal: 10 controlled shots with the ball in front of you.
Backhand against a wall
Same with two hands. Compact swing, stable racket face.
Volley with a partner
Block the fed ball back short out of the air – no big swing.
Practise the bandeja
Meet a high ball at eye level with a slicing motion and stay at the net.
Play the wall ball
Let the ball come off the back wall after the bounce and return it calmly.
Frequently asked questions
Is padel easier than tennis?
For beginners usually yes: shorter racket, smaller court and the walls give you more time.
Which grip do you use?
The continental (hammer) grip for forehand, backhand and volley without switching.
What is a bandeja?
A controlled overhead at eye level that lets you return the ball and stay at the net.
How many lessons do I need?
One or two lessons cover the basics; after that you learn most by playing a lot.
Struggling with the bandeja too? Got a drill that works for you? Share it below!
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