Just started playing padel or thinking about giving it a go? You’re not alone. Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the Netherlands and Belgium, and more and more women are discovering how fun, social, and intense it is. In this blog, we share practical and up-to-date padel tips for beginners, so you can step onto the court with confidence.
What is padel, exactly?
Padel is a mix between tennis and squash, played in an enclosed court with glass walls. It’s usually played in doubles, and it’s all about reflexes, teamwork, and strategy. The good news? It’s easier to pick up than tennis, but just as exciting.
1. Choose the right padel racket
You don’t need an expensive pro racket as a beginner, but it’s important to pay attention to the weight, shape, and material.
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Round rackets are perfect for beginners: they have a large sweet spot and are easy to control.
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Go for a lightweight racket (between 340–360 grams) for better control and less risk of injury.
If you plan to play regularly, it’s worth investing in a quality racket that suits your playing style.
2. Don’t skip your warm-up
It might feel unnecessary, but padel demands quick reflexes and agility.
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Do some light cardio (e.g. jumping jacks, jogging in place).
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Warm up your arms and shoulders with smooth rotations.
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Don’t forget your wrists and ankles, they take a lot of pressure during play.
A solid warm-up prevents injury and helps you start sharp.
3. Positioning is everything
Many beginners stand too far back or rush to the net too soon. The key is to move smartly and play as a team.
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Stay in a square formation with your partner: both at equal depth.
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Move forward or backward together to avoid leaving open spaces.
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Keep moving, padel is all about anticipation and reaction.
4. Use the glass walls to your advantage
One of the unique aspects of padel is the use of glass walls.
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Let the ball bounce off the wall to set yourself up for a better return.
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Practice how balls rebound off the walls — this takes time, but it’s a major edge once mastered.
5. Don’t hit too hard, play smart
A common mistake is trying to hit the ball too hard. In padel, it’s all about placement, tactics, and teamwork.
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Use controlled shots and focus on your technique.
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Prioritize spin and placement, not power.
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Padel is a thinking game, not a strength competition.
6. Invest in proper padel wear
What you wear on court really makes a difference, not just for comfort, but for your confidence and performance.
At CÉCA, we design padelwear specifically for women who want to combine style and performance. Our pieces:
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Fit like a second skin, without restricting you.
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Are made of breathable, fast-drying fabrics.
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Include refined details like mesh panels and built-in shorts with ball pockets.
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Are designed to flatter your figure while giving you full freedom of movement.
Whether you’re playing your first match or just starting practice, the right outfit helps you feel powerful, stylish, and ready to perform.
Ready to start?
Padel is fun, empowering, and a great way to stay active. With these beginner tips, you’re off to a strong start. And if you want to look your best while playing? Check out our latest padelwear collection for women who know what they want: performance, style, and confidence.
Discover the collection and feel the difference.
