“Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK – and it’s easy to see why,” says Sam Kemp, Managing Director of Operations, Tournaments & Events with R3 sports.
Played in doubles on a smaller, enclosed court, it combines the best elements of tennis and squash, but with a more sociable, accessible feel. “Whether you’re a total beginner or have some racket sport experience, getting into padel is refreshingly simple,” says Kemp.
The easiest way to start is to find your nearest padel court or club. The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and The Padel Directory both have excellent online court finders to help you locate venues near you. Once you’re there, just grab a racket and give it a go – most clubs are extremely welcoming to newcomers.
Coaching is a great way to learn the game. “A typical beginner session focuses on basic techniques – such as volleys, serves, and using the walls – while building your tactical awareness in a fun and inclusive environment,” says Sam. “Coaches tailor sessions to your background, whether you’re coming from tennis, squash, or starting from scratch.”
Most Padel centres offer a wide range of sessions for new players, including group coaching, individual lessons, and social ‘mix-ins’ or matchplay evenings. “These are ideal for meeting new players and gaining experience in a relaxed setting. For those ready to compete, many venues also run local tournaments and ladders,” says Sam.
The beauty of padel is that you don’t need much gear to get started. A lightweight, round-shaped racket offers great control for beginners. Brands like Bullpadel, Babolat, and Adidas all produce excellent entry-level options. Padel balls are similar to tennis balls but slightly less pressurised, and you’ll want proper footwear with grip and lateral support – especially on sand-covered turf.
“Terminology is mostly the same as tennis, especially when it comes to scoring, but padel has a few unique shot names you’ll pick up quickly,” adds Sam. “Best of all, it’s fun. Padel rallies are fast and lively, and the game encourages constant interaction and communication with your partner. It’s easy to learn, hard to master – and highly addictive.”
Find out more about Padel’s growth at r3-sport.com
