Get to know the sport that has taken the world by storm, offering a thrilling combo of fitness, fun and partnership. 

From virtual activity workouts to wearable tech, new sports are making their undeniable mark across the globe and are proving to be more than just a trend. And with more than 35-million players in 150 countries, padel is officially the fastest-growing sport in the world. 

Originating in Mexico in the 1960s, it’s only recently that the sport truly took off. 

Padel is a fast-paced, addictive racquet sport offering fun for beginners and a challenge seasoned players alike – the best of both worlds. But what makes this sport truly special isn’t just the thrill of the game – it’s the way it can transform your physical health, all while being a great way to bond with friends, colleagues or family. 

@coolstorybru_ Padel is the fastest growing sport in South Africa 😱🇿🇦🎾 #southafrica #tiktoksouthafrica🇿🇦 #southafrican ♬ original sound – Cool Story Bru! 🇿🇦

The Basics  

“In a way, it’s similar to squash, but the court set-up is similar to tennis, with a net in the middle and two players on each side of the net,” says Elian Wiener, founder of the Virgin Active Padel Club. The court is slightly smaller than a tennis court and is surrounded by glass walls. These walls play an essential role, allowing the ball to bounce off them, creating the opportunity for some strategy from players. 

The game starts with an underhand serve that must land diagonally in the opponent’s side. The goal is simple: Score the most points by using your racquet and the walls to send the ball over the net and into the opposing team’s half of the court. Padel matches are scored like tennis – with love’ (zero), 15, 30, 40 and game – and are played in sets (winning six games with a two-game advantage). 

The ultimate winner of the match is the first team to win two sets. 

The pace of the game is quick, and the strategy involves a dynamic mix of aerobic endurance as well as anaerobic power – keeping players constantly engaged and physically challenged. 

@mahalia_a my first time trying padel and i actually see what the hype is about 😂 had so much fun w/ my faveee @Amy ♬ Champion Sound – Champz

Worth the hype?  

The movement required in padel involves continuous running, lateral shifts and rapid directional changes. 

As Elian puts it: “Padel is an excellent workout and a great way to stay fit and active. It offers a fantastic cardio workout, helping to improve heart health, lung capacity and overall fitness. 

Because it involves a lot of lateral movement, it can also help build strength in the legs, hips and core.” 

“Your core gets a good workout too due to the twisting motion of the shots,” he continues. “I’ve seen people burn thousands of calories during a match.” Sebastian Gordon, founder of Rocket Padel, adds: “The dynamic range of motion while swinging the padel racquet contributes to improved flexibility.  

More than just fitness

@mahalia_a my first time trying padel and i actually see what the hype is about 😂 had so much fun w/ my faveee @Amy ♬ Champion Sound – Champz

While your muscles get a great workout, your mind also benefits from regular padel play. The sport’s social and team-based nature contributes significantly to mental well-being. A recent study on the impact of team sports like padel boost mental health. 

“The social nature of padel, played in pairs, positively impacts mental well-being by fostering social interaction and teamwork,” says Sebastian. Padel also encourages communication, cooperation and shared goals, making it the perfect game to build partnerships – both on and off the court. Whether you’re playing with a friend, partner or colleague, the camaraderie and trust built during the game strengthens relationships and provides a sense of belonging. It’s not just about winning points – it’s about connecting with others and having fun while getting fit. 

Where to play 

Virgin Active has padel courts at several of their gyms. There are also alternative providers of around 290 padel courts in SA. Consider the venues below to start or check out padelgear.co.za for a full list. 

Gauteng  

– Africa Padel (Randburg, Sandton, Dunkeld, Ruimsig and Brooklyn) 

– Grove Padel (Pretoria) 

– Padel Parq (Pretoria) 

Durban  

– Padel Nation (Durban Country Club & Umhlanga) 

– Africa Padel (Kloof) 

Cape Town  

– Africa Padel (V&A, Claremont, Camps Bay & Century City) 

Gqeberha  

– New Era Padel Sport 

– Africa Padel (Old Grey) 

– Techno Padel (Walmer)  

Words: Mecayla Maseka  

Photographs: Shutterstock