Beginner’s guide to padel

How to get off to a good start on the court

Beginner’s guide to paddle: If you’re thinking about getting started in paddle tennis, welcome to one of the most fun, social and addictive sports around! Whether you are someone who has never picked up a paddle or you come from other racket sports, this guide is designed for you. We explain the most important equipment, basic tips and practical recommendations to make your first steps on the court a complete success.

Choosing the right racket to start

One of the most common mistakes among beginners is to get carried away by the design or the rackets used by professionals. But in reality, the best racket to start with is the one that adapts to your level and helps you improve comfortably.

What type of racket is best for a beginner?

• Round shape: the most recommended for beginners. This type of racket has a wider and more centered sweet spot, which facilitates control and reduces hitting errors.
• Low or medium balance: balance refers to where the weight of the racket is concentrated. A low balance makes it easier to handle and more comfortable for the arms.
• Light or medium weight (350-365 g): avoid heavy blades, as they can cause fatigue or even discomfort if your technique is not yet developed.
• More flexible materials: fiberglass faces and FOAM rubber cores are more elastic and cushion impacts better, which helps inexperienced players.

Some recommended models

Brands such as Bullpadel, Siux, Head or Adidas have specific ranges for beginners. Rackets like the Bullpadel Indiga, Head Evo Sanyo or Siux Fusion are excellent options for their control, lightness and affordable price.ç

First tips to start playing

Once you have your paddle, the important thing is to start playing with good basics to enjoy the sport and progress without frustration.

-Learn the correct grip

Most pros recommend starting with the continental grip, which allows you to do all the basic strokes without changing position. Hold the paddle as if you were shaking hands: that’s the basics.

-Practice control first, not power

It is very common to try to hit it hard from day one, but what will give you real results is control. Prioritize placing the ball in the court, playing lobs, volleys and trays with good direction. Power will come with technique.

–Play with other beginners (or patient people)

Playing with people who are at a similar level to you will allow you to have more fun, without feeling pressure or frustration. You can also take lessons to reinforce the basic strokes from the beginning.

Learn the key strokes

In the beginning you don’t need to master all the strokes, but there are some essential ones:

• Drive and backhand from the back of the court.
• Soft volleys near the net.
• Globo to defend and gain time.
• Tray to recover the net after an opponent’s lob.

-Wear specific paddle shoes

This is key. Padel shoes have a sole adapted to the type of court and greater lateral stability to protect your ankles. Do not use running or gym shoes.

Opinion of the Stock Padel team

From Stock Padel, we encourage all new players to start with patience and good judgment. Padel is a sport that engages from the first game, but to progress in a safe and fun way it is essential to choose the right material and focus on technique rather than strength.

Our recommendation is that you invest in a comfortable, flexible and easy to control racket, and that you surround yourself with a positive learning environment: classes, social matches and lots of practice.

Remember that in padel, consistency and control are worth more than a spectacular stroke. Enjoy every game and celebrate every progress – welcome to the world of padel!