Getting started4 min read
How padel works — and how to book a court in Ireland
Padel is the racket sport everyone's suddenly talking about — easy to pick up, genuinely social, and a proper workout without needing years of technique. If you can rally a few shots you can play a real game on day one. Here's how it works and how to get on a court.
The basics
Padel is almost always played in doubles — two against two — on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court, with glass walls you can play the ball off (like squash). You serve underarm, and the scoring is the same as tennis (15, 30, 40, game).
The walls are what make it click for beginners: a ball that would be "out" in tennis stays live off the glass, so rallies last longer and feel rewarding fast. The rackets are solid (no strings) and the balls are slightly softer than tennis balls.
How many players per court
A padel court is built for four players — standard doubles, two a side. You book the whole court for your group and split it however you like; you don't share the court with strangers.
That's worth knowing when you book on FitFinder: a court booking reserves the entire court for your slot, with the listing showing the max players it holds. Grab a court, bring up to three friends, and you're set.
What to bring
Runners with a good grip (court or trainers — avoid worn-flat soles), comfortable activewear, and water. Most clubs hire rackets and sell balls at reception, so you don't need your own kit to start — just turn up and ask.
If you're brand new, a 60-minute slot with three friends of similar ability is the perfect first outing. You'll be rallying within minutes.
Why people get hooked
It's social by design — four people, constant rallies, lots of laughing. It's lower-impact and more forgiving than tennis, the learning curve is gentle, and an hour flies by while you've quietly done a real cardio session.
Ready to try padel?
Browse padel studios across Ireland and book your first class on FitFinder.
Common questions
- Do I need a partner or a group?
- Padel is doubles, so four players is ideal. Book a court and bring three friends — when you book on FitFinder you reserve the whole court for your group.
- Is padel hard to learn?
- It's one of the easiest racket sports to start. The enclosed walls keep rallies going, so beginners get satisfying games almost immediately.
- Do I need my own racket?
- No — most clubs hire rackets and sell balls on site. Just bring grippy trainers and water for your first session.