Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Padel

Padel tennis is gaining hype nationwide – if TikTok is anything to go by.

The Padel Federation of Ireland reports thousands take up the sport each year, for good reason. Not only is it fun, but it’s now much more accessible with several new courts opening across Ireland.

Padel is a doubles game, so to play it correctly, you will need to round up three more friends. It is similar to tennis; however, it is played on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls, which can be used throughout the game either as a playback or a defence.

Therefore, it involves a bit more thinking ahead and tactics than in tennis. The ball is also slightly different, and the racket is smaller.

@amygyms_ We are pros xoxo @abi gilder xo #padel #davidlloyd #relatable #funnyy #fyp ♬ We R Who We R – Ke$ha

Padel is challenging, but it’s still a sport that beginners can enjoy from the get go. It’s a great way to meet up with friends once a week and get in exercise at the same time. The opening of new courts around the country is a step forward in new opportunities for young people to socialise without alcohol.

The sport has excellent health benefits, including enhanced cardiovascular fitness, building strength and endurance, and calorie burning. All the while also promoting overall well-being.

The opening of new courts around Ireland has been an incredible success, with lots of young people taking up the sport. Many have taken to TikTok to share how fun the game is.

@orlaithleahyy @Padel LK we will definitely be back🏓 #fyp #padel ♬ original sound – nicole

New courts have opened up in Limerick, Galway, and Dublin in the last year which is brilliant for the already existing Padel community, having much better access to the sport.

Padel can be expensive, especially if you are looking to do it regularly. However, if you buy your own rackets and balls, it should cost about €12-€15 a session per person (group of 4).

That would just be to rent the court for an hour without any rental equipment. Booking a session during off peak hours also often makes the price go down, and many courts also have memberships, which would work out cheaper too.

So grab your padel, grab your mates, and go get hooked on the latest sporting trend.