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Padel for beginners: the basics in five minutes

How it is played, what racket you need and how to find a crew at your level.

Padel is almost always played in doubles, on a court with glass walls that stay in play. The ball may hit the wall and carry on, which makes it friendlier for beginners than tennis.

The serve is underhand and the ball bounces first. Scoring works like tennis: 15, 30, 40 and game.

You do not need much to start: a padel racket, shoes for a hard surface and three more players. If you are short of company, look for an open match at your level.