Everybody makes the same mistakes when they start padel. Luckily they're all easy to spot and easy to fix, and sorting even a few of them will win you more games than any expensive racquet.
Here are the ten most common beginner errors we see on courts around Manchester, and exactly how to put each one right.
1. Smashing everything
The overhead smash is fun, so beginners hit it at every opportunity, usually into the net or straight out.
The fix: only smash a lob that drops short and sits up invitingly. For anything deep, play a controlled bandeja instead, keeping your net position rather than risking a wild winner. Power loses more points than it wins early on.
2. Standing too deep
New players hang back near the glass because it feels safe. It isn't. From the back you can only defend.
The fix: make getting to the net your default plan. Whenever a ball lets you move forward, take the step in and hold your ground. The pair at the net wins most points, so that's where you want to be.
3. Ignoring the walls
Beginners see a ball heading for the back glass and either panic-volley it or give up on it.
The fix: trust the glass. Let the ball pass you, bounce, and rebound off the wall, then hit it as it drops. You'll get a slower, more predictable ball and far more time. Reading the back glass is a genuine turning point in your game.
4. A weak, rushed serve
Because the serve is underarm and doesn't win points outright, people rush it and gift away easy returns.
The fix: slow down and aim. Serve consistently into the box, mix up placement towards the side glass, and get to the net behind it. A tidy, well-placed serve sets up the whole point. If the rules are still fuzzy, our rules and scoring guide covers serving in full.
5. Never lobbing
The lob is the most useful shot in beginner padel and the most neglected. Without it, you're stuck trying to blast through net players and losing.
The fix: when opponents control the net, lob deep over their heads. It pushes them back and lets you move forward to take the net yourselves. One good lob is worth more than three flashy drives.
6. Bad partner spacing
One player charges forward, the other stays at the back, and a hole opens up down the middle that good opponents pick off all day.
The fix: move as a pair. Imagine a short pole joining you, so when one moves the other follows. Stay level, forward together and back together. Our tactics guide breaks this down properly.
7. Confusion over the middle ball
Both players go for the centre ball, both hesitate, and it drops between you.
The fix: decide in advance. Usually the player whose forehand covers the middle takes it. A quick word between points, "middle's mine", saves a lot of soft points.
8. Wearing the wrong shoes
Running trainers have the wrong grip for padel's quick side-to-side movements, and on some surfaces they're downright slippery.
The fix: use padel or court shoes designed for lateral movement and the surface you play on. Your ankles and knees will thank you. The shop has sensible options if you need a pair.
9. Gripping the racquet too tightly
A white-knuckle grip kills touch, tires your forearm, and makes soft shots almost impossible.
The fix: hold the racquet firmly but relaxed, roughly a three or four out of ten. A looser grip gives you feel for lobs, soft low shots at the net players' feet and controlled volleys, and it's easier on your arm over a long session.
10. Buying the wrong racquet
Beginners often grab a stiff, heavy, power racquet because it looks the part, then struggle to control anything.
The fix: start with a lighter, softer, round-shaped racquet that's forgiving and easy to control. It'll help far more than raw power while you're learning. Our first racquet guide walks through exactly what to look for.
Fix a few and you'll climb fast
You don't need to solve all ten at once. Pick two or three, work on them for a few sessions, and you'll notice the difference quickly. Better still, book a lesson. A coach spots your habits in minutes, and the coaches page lists people teaching around Manchester. Brand new? Start with the getting started guide.
FAQs
What is the most common mistake beginners make in padel?
Standing too deep. New players hang back near the glass where they can only defend, when the aim should be to get to the net and hold it, since the net pair wins most points.
Should beginners smash the ball?
Only when a lob drops short and sits up. For deep overheads, a controlled bandeja is safer and keeps your position. Smashing everything gives away easy points.
Do I really need padel shoes?
Yes. Running trainers have the wrong grip for padel's side-to-side movement and can be slippery. Court or padel shoes give you the right traction and protect your ankles and knees.
What racquet should a beginner buy?
A lighter, softer, round-shaped racquet. It's forgiving and easy to control, which matters far more than power while you're learning. Our first racquet guide covers the details.
How do I stop losing points down the middle?
Agree with your partner who takes the middle before the point, usually whoever covers it with their forehand. A quick call between points removes the hesitation that lets the ball drop.