If you’re wondering what the padel craze is all about, here’s a handy guide to everyone’s new favourite sport.
Padel is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, and for good reason. Originally invented in Acapulco, Mexico, way back in 1969, the sport has surged in popularity in the past decade. But did you know you can play padel right here in Leeds? Slazenger Padel Club is a state-of-the-art facility that makes getting into padel easy. Here’s why you should give it a go.
It’s the fastest growing sport in the world
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
Padel’s rise in popularity is remarkable. As of 2023, there are over 25 million players across 110 countries, while over 50,000 Brits say they’ve played the game at least once in the last year. Thanks to high-profile athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi endorsing the sport and a surge in court construction, more and more people are picking up a racket.
It’s accessible and easy to pick up
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
Padel’s simple rules and techniques make it easy for beginners. Serves are underarm, balls have a slightly lower compression and the racket is closer to your hand, making it easier to control your shots. Its accessible nature means that players can often serve, rally and play for points right from their first session, making it enjoyable from the get go. First timer? You can even get an Intro2Padel session free of charge!
It’s super social
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
Padel is a doubles sport, so you need at least four people to play a game. It’s a great way to bond with your friends or meet likeminded people, with many centres such as Slazenger Padel Club running events like ladies days and coffee mornings to encourage socialising. With a cafe on-site and a viewing platform, there’s plenty of chance to have a natter.
It’s a great way to keep fit…
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
If you find yourself bored in the gym, sport can be a far more enjoyable way to get your sweat on, and padel is no exception. Darting across the court to hit a shot and getting back into position to support your partner requires both aerobic and anaerobic fitness, and an hour of padel can burn up to 800 calories – while boosting cardiovascular health and muscle strength.
…But it’s less intensive than tennis
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
Padel courts are smaller than tennis courts, so you don’t have to cover as much ground. Rackets are smaller and lighter, reducing strain on the arm, wrist and shoulder, while the soft court surface reduces impact on the joints. Strategy tends to be more important than power, making the game ideal for players of all ages, abilities and fitness levels.
It’s affordable
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
It’s about £35 to book a court at Slazenger Padel Club, which split four ways is just £8.50 an hour. If you end up playing a lot, it might be worth signing up for membership, which gets you 20% off court bookings and retail sales, making things even more affordable for a £20 monthly fee. There’s even free gym equipment on-site, so you can ditch your gym membership!
It’s great for your mental wellbeing
Credit: Slazenger Padel Club
Keeping active has a huge impact on mental health, and that’s even more true when it comes to playing sports. Playing padel releases dopamine, endorphins and serotonin, helping boost mood and alleviate stress, enhancing overall mental health. What’s more, playing in doubles fosters teamwork and communication, while joining a club offers a sense of community.
Try padel at Slazenger Padel Club
Fancy giving padel a go? Slazenger Padel Club is the perfect place to try the sport out, get involved with social games or even join a tournament. You can even sign up for a free taster session! Visit their Playtomic site or call the centre to find out more.
