Learn Padel
For Men
From zero to court-ready. Rules, scoring, technique, equipment — everything you need in one place. Free guide, updated 2026.
What Is Padel?
Padel is a racket sport played on an enclosed court approximately 25% smaller than a tennis court. It is played in doubles — two players on each side — and combines elements of tennis, squash, and racketball into something entirely its own.
The walls are in play. Unlike tennis, when the ball bounces off the glass or mesh walls at the back and sides, it can be played legally. This opens up extraordinary angles, defensive retrievals, and attacking plays that do not exist in any other sport.
The padel racket has no strings — it is a solid foam and fibreglass face, perforated with holes to reduce air resistance. It is smaller than a tennis racket and easier to handle, which is one reason padel is the fastest-growing sport in the world.
According to the International Padel Federation (FIP), padel is now played by over 25 million people in more than 148 countries.
How to Score in Padel
The Score
Padel uses identical scoring to tennis: 15 – 30 – 40 – Game. At deuce (40-40), you need two consecutive points to win.
Win six games (with a two-game lead) to win a set. At 6-6, a tiebreak is played. Most club matches are best of three sets.
Key Rules
Video via Premier Padel YouTube
The Shots You Need First
Tutorial via Premier Padel Academy
What Equipment Do You Need?
Your First Racket
As a beginner, choose a round-shaped racket with a low balance point — this puts the sweetspot in the middle and maximises forgiveness on off-centre hits. Budget: £80–£150.
Avoid diamond-shaped rackets — those are for experienced attacking players. Wrong choice for a beginner.
Find a Padel Court Near You
Over 1,000 padel courts across the UK. Browse city guides or use the official England Padel court finder.