Padel is experiencing exceptional growth in Belgium and worldwide, attracting new players every week. However, even though this sport remains accessible, many technical and tactical mistakes hinder the progress of beginners. Here are the five most frequent mistakes… and most importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Playing like in tennis: a classic mistake
Many new players come from tennis and instinctively reproduce the same movements. The problem? Padel operates with a completely different timing. Too long swings, overly powerful shots, and the desire to play everything “with force” quickly lead to mistakes and loss of control.
How to correct: shorten the movement, prioritize control, and learn to use the glass walls as a true ally rather than a hindrance.
2. Mismanaging the glass walls
Beginners often avoid the glass walls for fear of misplaying the rebound. However, it is an integral part of the game and can even offer a significant tactical advantage. Not anticipating the rebound or letting the ball die in a corner gives easy points to the opponent.
How to correct: observe the rebound, adapt to the trajectory, and play in a calm and controlled manner after the walls.
3. Sticking to the back of the court
Another common mistake is staying too far back, like in tennis. This position prevents taking the net, yet it’s one of the most strategic areas to dominate the rally. Being too passive at the back of the court greatly reduces attack opportunities.
How to correct: move forward together with your partner when the opportunity arises and effectively occupy the attack zone as soon as possible.
4. Lack of communication with your partner
Padel is a team sport, and a lack of communication often leads to collisions, balls left in the middle, or completely uncovered areas. Without coordination, each rally becomes more difficult and less precise.
How to correct: call out balls (“mine”, “yours”), define clear positioning, and encourage your partner to maintain a positive dynamic throughout the match.
5. Wanting to finish the point too quickly
Many beginners try to conclude the rally on the first ball… which causes direct errors and a lack of consistency. Padel, however, is a sport of patience and construction.
How to correct: prioritize consistency, play high balls to regain the net, and only attack when the ball is truly favorable.
Conclusion
Avoiding these five mistakes allows beginner players to progress faster, gain confidence, and fully enjoy a sport as spectacular as it is strategic. With a little practice, a few technical adjustments, and good communication, progress quickly becomes visible from the first games.
