5 tactics that work for new players

So, you’ve picked up a racket, learned the basic rules, and booked your first few matches. Now what? Padel might look easy at first—but once you’re on court, it’s a different story. The speed, the angles, the walls—it can all feel a little chaotic.

The good news? You don’t need to be a pro to play smart. These 5 beginner-friendly tactics will help you feel more in control, win more points, and actually enjoy the game while you're still learning.

🧠 1. Lob More Often (Yes, Really)

The lob is your best friend—especially when you're under pressure.

If your opponents are crowding the net and dominating the point, a well-placed lob can reset everything.
It gives you time to recover your position, forces them to move back, and creates opportunities for mistakes.

Pro tip: Aim high and deep. Even if it’s not perfect, it’s better than handing them an easy volley.

🎯 2. Hit to the Middle

When in doubt, hit down the center. Why?

It creates confusion: both opponents may hesitate, thinking the other one will take it.
It’s a high-percentage shot—less chance of hitting it out or into the net.
It limits sharp angles, which are harder to defend.

Smart players exploit the middle all the time. So can you.

🧱 3. Don’t Fear the Walls—Use Them

If you’ve never played with walls before, it’s tempting to avoid them. But in padel, the walls are your allies.

Practice letting the ball bounce off the back wall and returning it calmly.
Once you get the timing, it becomes a great way to defend and stay in the point.
Start simple: hit slower balls and give yourself time to adjust.

The sooner you get comfortable using the glass, the more complete your game becomes.

🗣️ 4. Communicate With Your Partner

Padel is all about teamwork, especially in doubles (which is how it’s usually played).

Talk to each other constantly—before, during, and after points.
Call balls clearly ("Mine!" / "Yours!") to avoid clashing in the middle.
Move together as a unit. If your partner goes left, you follow slightly left.

You don’t need to be best friends—you just need to function as a team.

🔄 5. Play Safe, Not Fancy

Early on, consistency is way more valuable than fancy shots.

Keep the ball in play. Don’t go for risky smashes or sharp angles unless you're confident.
Most points are lost on unforced errors, not brilliant winners.
Focus on control, positioning, and patience. That alone will win you more games than trying to show off.

There’s no shame in being a “boring” player who rarely makes mistakes. In fact, that’s how many matches are won.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Smart Beats Flashy

You don’t need a powerful smash or perfect technique to win in padel. You just need to stay calm, play smart, and keep improving. These 5 tactics are simple, but they’re incredibly effective—especially when your opponents are making mistakes trying to be flashy.

So next time you step on court, remember:
✔️ Lob to escape pressure
✔️ Hit to the middle
✔️ Trust the walls
✔️ Talk to your teammate
✔️ Keep it simple

Play with your brain, not just your arms—and the wins will follow.