Padel is a fast-growing and accessible sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. But like any sport, it comes with a learning curve. If you’re just starting out, it’s helpful to be aware of the most common mistakes in padel so you can improve your game quickly and enjoy it more.
Whether you’re a total novice or someone looking to refine your skills, this guide breaks down the top 10 mistakes in padel and offers clear advice on how to avoid them.
1. Rushing to the Net Too Soon
One of the most common mistakes in padel is charging the net without control. While net play is crucial, moving up without setting up the point can leave you exposed. Wait until you’ve hit a deep, effective shot before approaching the net, and coordinate your movement with your partner.
2. Neglecting Wall Play
Ignoring or fearing the walls is a classic error. The glass walls are a key part of the game, and learning to use them gives you a big advantage. Many mistakes in padel happen when players misjudge rebounds or avoid using walls altogether. Practice reading the bounce and timing your shots accordingly.
3. Playing Like It’s Tennis
Trying to play padel like tennis is another of the frequent mistakes in padel. Padel requires shorter, controlled swings, not the long, powerful strokes of tennis. Relying on tennis habits often results in errors, especially when hitting volleys or smashes. Adjust your technique and embrace the different rhythm.
4. Smashing Too Often
It’s tempting to go for big smashes, especially when the ball is high but overdoing it is one of the most common mistakes in padel. Unless you’re in the right position and confident in your technique, a smash can backfire. Smart players use placement and patience over brute force.
5. Poor Positioning
Staying in no-man’s-land the middle area between the baseline and net is a major tactical error. Many mistakes in padel stem from not knowing where to stand. You should either stay back near the baseline or push up to the net with your partner. Good footwork and positioning are critical to success.
6. Not Communicating With Your Partner
Padel is a doubles game, and communication is essential. Misunderstandings about who should take the ball, or poor court coverage, often lead to mistakes in padel. Talk to your partner, use hand signals if needed, and move as a team. Good chemistry can elevate your game massively.
7. Avoiding the Lob
New players often forget the value of the lob. But failing to use it is one of the most strategic mistakes in padel. A well-placed lob can reset a point, push opponents back, or create openings. Practice your lobs and use them wisely to take control of rallies.
8. Weak Serves
Serving in padel is underhand and may seem easy but it still sets the tone for the rally. One of the overlooked mistakes in padel is treating the serve as a formality. Work on your accuracy, depth, and variation. A well-executed serve can put your opponents on the back foot from the start.
9. Not Watching the Ball
It may sound basic, but losing focus on the ball is a frequent cause of errors. Whether it’s due to distraction, misjudging a bounce, or getting caught up in footwork, many mistakes in padel come down to simply not keeping your eyes on the ball. Focus is fundamental.
10. Not Taking Time to Learn
Lastly, a key mistake is trying to run before you can walk. Skipping lessons, refusing coaching, or ignoring feedback are some of the more stubborn mistakes in padel. Take the time to learn proper technique, play with better players, and develop a solid foundation.
Final Thoughts
Everyone makes mistakes in padel that’s part of the learning process. What matters is how you respond to them. By recognising and correcting these 10 common pitfalls, you’ll build confidence, play smarter, and have far more fun on the court.
Remember, the best way to avoid mistakes in padel is by staying open to learning, playing regularly, and enjoying the process. Keep practising, play with people slightly better than you, and don’t be afraid to make errors that’s how you grow.
So, next time you step on the court, think back to these tips. Whether it’s positioning, shot selection, or teamwork, correcting even one or two of these mistakes in padel can make a noticeable difference in your performance.
