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Lesson 5: Basic Strategy and Beginner Tips

A padel learner practises with a mentor beside a glass wall, headed “PADEL: PLAY SMARTER”, with The Sports Rise branding below.
Original AI-assisted editorial illustration · The Sports Rise. An original learning illustration; no actual team, event, official ruling or measured equipment test is depicted.

Now that you know the rules, here are some simple strategies to help you play better from day one. **Use the walls — they are your friends!** - The glass walls on your side are **legally part of the court**; let the ball rebound off them before you hit it - Do not panic when the ball hits the wall — stay calm and position yourself to play it **Control the net:** - Pairs who move to the **net position** control rallies and win more points - Work with your partner to advance together toward the net **Communication is key:** - Since padel is **doubles only**, talk to your partner constantly — call the ball and plan together **Master the serve first:** - Remember: underhand, **at or below 1.06 m**, one bounce before contact, feet behind the line - Aim for consistency over power — a double fault gives the point away immediately **Beginner priorities:** - Keep the ball in play — let the opponents make mistakes - Aim **cross-court** for safer, longer shots - Stay **side by side** with your partner to cover the court evenly Padel is a sport where smart teamwork beats raw power — enjoy the process!

Sources & further reading

  1. Preserved legacy publication: Lesson 5: Basic Strategy and Beginner Tips ↗The Sports Rise · Accessed 2026-09-27

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