Padel Rules for Beginners: Complete Guide and Recommended Paddles

He paddle tennis It is one of the fastest-growing sports in Spain and many other countries. Its social nature, ease of learning, and low entry cost make it ideal for beginners. In addition, there is a wide range of padel rackets on the market, from beginner models to professional shovels like the Bullpadel Vertex 04, the Adidas Metalbone 3.4 wave Nox AT10 Genius 18K Alum by Agustín Tapia.

In this guide you will find everything you need to know to start playing padel, with the basic rules explained in a simple way and with useful examples so you can enjoy it from day one.

What is padel and why is it so popular?

Padel is a racket sport that is played in a closed track with glass walls and metal barsUnlike tennis, it is mostly played in doubles format, and points are often prolonged by rebounds off the walls, making it a more tactical and accessible game.

Advantages of padel

• Easy to learn for all levels.
• Suitable for all ages and physical conditions.
• Moderate initial investment.
• Wide variety of blades, such as:
  • Bullpadel Vertex 04: for offensive players looking for power.
  • Adidas Metalbone 3.4: adjustable technology for advanced players.
  • Nox AT10 Genius 18K Alum: used by Agustín Tapia, balanced and precise.

Number of players and characteristics of the court

Although there are individual courts, the regulatory format of padel is in couples (2 against 2)Singles courts are typically used for lessons, training, or casual play, but official competition is played in doubles.

Basic rules of the game

Scoring System

The scoring system in padel is very similar to tennis, but with one key difference: the "golden point", which has been officially implemented in competitions like the World Padel Tour (now Premier Padel) to speed up matches.

Points in a game: 15 - 30 - 40 - deuce (40-40) → a golden point is played.

Golden Point: Instead of playing advantage and deuce indefinitely, when the score reaches 40-40, a single deciding point is played. The receiving pair chooses which player will receive the serve. Whoever wins that point wins the game.

Games: A player or team must win 4 points (with a 2-point lead or by winning the golden point if the score is 40-40).

Sets: A set is won by reaching 6 games with at least a 2-game lead. If the score is 6-6, a tie-break to 7 points (win by 2) is played.

Match: Matches are played as best of 3 sets.

Side change: Players switch sides every 3 completed games, and also every 6 points during a tie-break.

Development of the point

• The ball must bounce once before touching walls or fence.
• The player can return the ball after a bounce or a volley.
• Both players can move freely throughout their half of the court.
• The ball can bounce off the wall and remain in play, as long as it bounced first.

The serve in padel

How is it done?

The serve It has specific rules that differentiate it from tennis:

1. It is taken from the right or left side, alternately.
2. The serve must be crossed, to the opponent's opposite square.
3. The ball is dropped and hits below the waist.
4. The ball is not thrown upwards as in tennis.

The shovel cannot exceed waist height at the moment of impact. If the serve touches the net and lands in the correct box, it is replayed. Each player has two attempts per point.

Where should you throw it?

• The serve is valid if kick inside the opposing box and does not touch the fence behind the boat.
• If you touch the net and then:
  • Kick out of the box: is a fault.
  • He kicks in the box and then hits the fence: it is also a fault.
  • Kick correctly without touching the fence: the serve is repeated.

Most common faults

• Let the ball bounce twice.
• Hit the ball twice in a row with the shovel.
• Not having the shovel held in your hand or without the security cordon.
• Touch the net with the shovel, body or clothing.
• To receive a direct hit from the ball without it bouncing first.

Special situations

What happens if the ball goes out of the lane?

• If the ball kick and go out: The point is won by the person who hit it, unless the opponent manages to return it before the second bounce.
• If the ball bounces off the wall and returns to the other field: can be returned if the net is not touched.

Can at the junction of the ground with the wall or fence

The rules state that if the pot is produced with a visible angle (about 45°), is considered valid. In recreational matches, it is most advisable to repeat the stitch to avoid arguments.

Which paddle should you choose to start with?

Choosing the right paddle is essential, especially if you're just starting out. Brands offer a wide range of models depending on your level and playing style.

Recommended paddles for beginners

• Bullpadel BP10 EVO: good control and comfort.
• Adidas Drive 3.4: light, easy to handle.
• Power Padel Red Shine: excellent value for money to improve technique.

Paddles for intermediate or advanced level

• Bullpadel Vertex 04: great power and ball output.
• Adidas Metalbone 3.4: adjustable, firm and modern.
• Nox AT10 Genius 18K Alum: control and power, with medium-high balance.

Official paddle tennis regulations

The rules are set by the International Padel Federation (FIP) and national federations. The regulations detail:

• Official track dimensions.
• Characteristics of paddles and balls.
• Serving procedures, scoring and behavior.
• Rules for official and recreational competitions.

Consulting the full rules is recommended if you want to compete or train in a more structured way.

Conclusion

Padel is a accessible, social and very entertaining sport. Knowing the basic rules, choosing the right paddle, and understanding the dynamics of the game will help you enjoy it fully from day one. Whether you opt for a simple model or upgrade to professional paddles like the Bullpadel Vertex 04, the Adidas Metalbone 3.4 wave Nox AT10 Genius 18K AlumThe important thing is to play with confidence, a positive attitude and a desire to improve.