Guidelines

1. Basic Rules of Padel
• The Court: Padel is played on a court surrounded by glass and metallic mesh walls. The ball can bounce off these walls, similar to squash, but must first hit the ground.
• Scoring: Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: points are counted as 15, 30, 40, and game. A match is typically best of three or five sets.
• Serving: Serves are underhanded, and the ball must be hit below waist level. The serve must land in the diagonal service box, and the server gets two attempts to get it right.
• Ball in Play: The ball is in play as long as it bounces within the court boundaries. It can hit the walls after bouncing on the ground, but not before. If the ball hits the walls or fence before touching the ground, it’s out.

2. Player Etiquette
• Respect Your Opponents: Always show respect for your opponents, whether you’re winning or losing. Avoid unnecessary disputes, and if in doubt, replay the point.
• Calling Shots: Clearly and fairly call whether the ball was in or out. If you’re unsure, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponent.
• Wait Your Turn: If there are others waiting to play, be considerate with your time on the court. Stick to agreed match lengths or session times.
• Keep the Court Clean: Dispose of any trash and return balls to their rightful place after your game. Leave the court as you found it for the next players.

3. Safety Tips
• Warm-Up: Always take time to warm up before playing to prevent injuries. Stretching and light cardio are recommended.
• Proper Footwear: Wear appropriate padel shoes that provide grip and support. This helps prevent slipping and injuries.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Bring water to the court and take breaks as needed.
• Injury Awareness: If you feel any discomfort or injury, stop playing immediately to avoid aggravating the issue. Seek medical advice if necessary.

4. Game Strategies
• Communication: In doubles, communication with your partner is key. Call for shots and cover each other’s weak spots.
• Positioning: Stay in the right positions on the court. Generally, try to control the net, as it gives you an advantage.
• Shot Selection: Mix up your shots – use lobs, volleys, and smashes strategically to keep your opponents guessing.
• Stay Calm: Padel is as much a mental game as a physical one. Stay calm under pressure and focus on each point.

5. Learning and Improvement
• Take Lessons: If you’re new or looking to improve, consider taking lessons from a certified padel coach. They can help refine your technique and strategy.
• Practice Regularly: The more you play, the better you’ll get. Try to play with a variety of partners to challenge yourself.
• Watch and Learn: Watching professional padel matches can give you insights into advanced strategies and techniques. Pay attention to how pros position themselves and handle different situations.

Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a positive padel experience for yourself and others. Remember, padel is a sport that’s as much about fun and community as it is about competition. Enjoy the game, play fair, and keep learning!