What padel is
Padel is almost always played in doubles, on a court enclosed by glass and metal mesh. You use a solid racket with no strings and a ball similar to a tennis ball, with slightly less pressure. It started in Mexico in the late 1960s and is now played in dozens of countries, especially in Spain and Argentina.
The court
It measures 20 metres by 10 and is split by a net. The walls are part of the game: the ball can bounce off them after it has bounced on the floor on your side or your opponent's.
Scoring
Scoring is the same as in tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. A set is won at six games with a two-game lead, and matches are usually best of three sets. Many clubs play the golden point: at 40-40, the next point decides the game.
The serve
You serve underhand, below waist height, after letting the ball bounce once. It must land in the opposite service box, diagonally. If it clips the net and lands in, you replay it. Two faults lose the point.
Rules that surprise beginners
Wall after the bounce
You can let the ball bounce off your own wall and return it. It is the hardest shot to master and the most fun.
Wall before the bounce
If the ball hits a wall on your side without bouncing on the floor first, you lose the point.
The net
Touching the net with your racket or body during the point loses it.
First steps
Find a nearby club and ask about a beginner class. Many offer a first session with a loaned racket. After an hour or two of lessons you can play a friendly match.
Play with people of your level and do not chase power. In padel the player who places the ball and moves well beats the one who hits hardest.