22 23 bhgrecollection.com | | THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE® Volume 13 PADEL RACKETS Padel rackets differ from tennis rackets and pickleball paddles. They’re made from a composite material with holes in it, and they don’t have strings. Padel rackets have a safety cord attached to the grip, and you must use this cord during games. You’ll find padel rackets in several shapes, including round, diamond, and teardrop. PADEL BALLS A padel ball resembles a tennis ball but has lower pressure and is softer. You’ll probably need to replace padel balls often, and depending on your strength and skill level, you might have to get a new ball into play every few sets. PADEL SHOES Like tennis, padel is fast-paced and often requires a player to jump, pivot, and sprint. Having the right padel shoes is part of the game, so players should wear trainers with a patterned bottom that grips the court and sides that provide stability. HOW DO YOU GET GOOD AT PADEL TENNIS? Getting good at padel takes time and practice. The good news is that since padel tennis is a relatively new sport in the U.S., many players are likely at the same skill level as you and ready to take on the challenge by your side. There are a few tips you can keep in mind, though, as you try to perfect your game. WORK ON YOUR TOUCH Padel rackets are entirely different than tennis or pickleball rackets, so they require a unique type of control. When making contact with the padel ball, try to take some of the power off the ball (this is a motion and tactic unlike you’d perform in tennis). LEARN THE BALL’S BOUNCE Again, unlike tennis, you’ll need to treat the ball differently. In tennis, beginners tend to run after a ball, but in padel, pay attention to how balls bounce off the glass or mesh. Resist the urge to run and chase, and instead wait for the ball to rebound. REMEMBER GOOD POSITIONING To get good at padel, focus on positioning. Learn where to stand and where to direct your doubles partner, if appropriate. For example, partners should move as a unit and attack the net together. L I FE & LEISURE
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