Mistake 1: Not Using the Walls
One of the most common mistakes new padel players make is not utilizing the walls to their advantage. Padel is unique in that players can use the walls to bounce the ball off before hitting it back to their opponents. By neglecting to use the walls, players limit their options and make the game harder for themselves. To avoid this mistake, remember to position yourself in a way that allows you to take advantage of the walls and practice hitting the ball off the walls during your training sessions.
Mistake 2: Playing at the Net Too Much
Another mistake new padel players often make is spending too much time at the net. While playing at the net can be advantageous, especially when volleying, it’s essential to vary your positioning on the court to keep your opponents guessing. Spending too much time at the net can make you vulnerable to lobs and deep shots, so make sure to move back and forth between the net and the baseline throughout the game.
Mistake 3: Overestimating Shot Power
New padel players often make the mistake of overestimating the power of their shots. While hitting the ball hard can be effective in certain situations, padel is a game of control and finesse. Instead of focusing on hitting the ball as hard as you can, work on placing your shots strategically and varying the pace and spin of your shots to keep your opponents off balance.
Mistake 4: Neglecting Communication
Communication is key in padel, as it’s a doubles sport that requires teamwork and coordination. New players often neglect to communicate with their partner, leading to confusion and missed opportunities on the court. To avoid this mistake, make sure to establish a system of communication with your partner, whether it’s through verbal cues, hand signals, or pre-determined strategies for certain situations.
Mistake 5: Skipping Warm-Up and Cool-Down
New padel players sometimes make the mistake of skipping the warm-up and cool-down portions of their training sessions. Warm-up exercises help prepare your body for the physical demands of the game and reduce the risk of injuries, while cool-down exercises help your body recover and prevent muscle soreness. Make sure to incorporate warm-up and cool-down routines into your training regimen to improve your performance on the court and stay injury-free.