Padel is rapidly growing in popularity across Australia, from Sydney to Melbourne, Brisbane to Perth. With its exciting mix of tennis, squash, and social play, it’s no wonder more Aussies are picking up a racket. As courts pop up nationwide, now is the perfect time to improve your skills and become a strong padel player in Australia.
Here’s a practical guide to help you develop your game and stand out on the court.
1. Learn the Basics First
Every good padel player begins with a strong understanding of the game’s core principles. Padel is played on a smaller court than tennis and is enclosed with glass and mesh walls, which are used strategically during play. The scoring system is similar to tennis, but the dynamics of positioning, teamwork, and rebounds make it a unique sport. A padel player in Australia — just like anywhere else — must first master the rules, techniques, and flow of the game.
2. Invest in Quality Equipment
To perform your best, you need the right gear. Padel rackets are solid with holes and come in different shapes to suit your playing style — control, power, or hybrid. Good padel shoes are also essential, offering grip and stability on synthetic turf. As a padel player in Australia, conditions can vary with indoor and outdoor courts, so having reliable equipment is a smart move to support your performance and protect against injury.
3. Take Coaching Lessons
If you’re serious about becoming a better padel player, consider working with a coach. Australia now has certified coaches and clubs that offer lessons for all levels. A coach can help you improve your technique, positioning, and shot selection. They’ll also help you avoid bad habits early on. A padel player who receives professional feedback will progress faster than someone relying on casual play alone.
4. Practice Regularly
Consistency is crucial. To develop into a confident padel player, you should aim to train or play multiple times a week. Match play is important, but so is drilling specific skills like volleys, lobs, and bandejas. The more you repeat quality movements, the more automatic your padel performance becomes. In Australia, many clubs offer social nights and training groups, which are perfect for improving your game in a friendly environment.
5. Understand Strategy and Teamwork
Padel is always played in doubles, so communication and teamwork are essential. A smart padel player knows how to cover the court with their partner, when to attack, when to defend, and how to set up points rather than rush for winners. Building chemistry with your partner and learning tactical plays will make you more competitive. Remember, a strategic padel player often beats a stronger, less experienced one.
6. Work on Wall Play
One of the biggest challenges for new players is using the walls. The back and side glass are part of the court, and mastering the way the ball rebounds off them takes time. A good padel player uses the walls both defensively and offensively — to create space, control tempo, or reset a point. Practising wall rebounds will make your overall padel game much more complete.
7. Improve Your Physical Fitness
A fit padel player moves better, reacts quicker, and stays strong through long matches. Focus on building leg strength, balance, agility, and endurance. Core workouts, resistance training, and footwork drills can help you stay sharp on the court. Even a 20-minute off-court workout a few times a week can improve your court movement and reduce your risk of injury.
8. Join a Club and Compete
Australia’s padel scene is growing quickly, with new clubs, leagues, and tournaments appearing regularly. Becoming part of a local club keeps you connected to a network of players and gives you opportunities to compete and learn. A padel player who competes regularly builds experience, confidence, and mental toughness — all crucial traits for taking your game to the next level.
9. Watch and Learn From Others
Study how higher-level players perform. Whether it’s watching professionals on YouTube or observing better players at your local club, there’s always something to learn. Notice their shot selection, footwork, court positioning, and how they handle pressure. A smart padel player learns not only from their own matches but from others’ experiences too.
10. Stay Positive and Keep Improving
Becoming a skilled padel player takes time, patience, and a willingness to learn. You’ll have good days and bad days, but staying committed to the process is what sets top players apart. Track your progress, set goals, and celebrate your improvements, no matter how small. A great padel player keeps a positive mindset and views every match as an opportunity to grow.
