You can play padel without taking classes, but a coach helps you improve faster and avoid mistakes that are hard to fix later.
What kinds of padel classes are there?
- A beginner course is a series of sessions that teaches you the rules, the grip and the basic shots (see centres with beginner classes).
- A group class is a regular session for players at a similar level, usually four people per court (centres with group classes).
- A private lesson is one coach with one or two players (centres with private lessons).
- In kids’ and youth classes, groups are put together by age and level (centres with kids’ classes).
- Camps and clinics are short and intensive, often during the school holidays.
- A company session is a class or an event for colleagues.
How do you choose the right type of class?
| Goal | What to choose |
|---|---|
| I want to try padel and learn the basics | beginner course |
| I want to play regularly and improve | group class |
| I want to fix a specific shot or improve quickly | private lesson |
| I want to prepare for a tournament | group class plus a couple of private lessons |
| For my child | kids’ and youth class |
What does a typical session look like?
A typical session starts with a warm-up and some easy rallying. Then the coach feeds you balls to practise one shot, and after that you play the same shot in a game situation, for example a bandeja against an opponent’s lob. At the end you play points, and the coach stops play whenever there’s something to show you.
A session usually lasts 60–90 minutes, and in most cases the coach provides the balls.
How often should you train?
Training once or twice a week, plus some casual games, keeps a recreational player improving steadily. Consistency matters most: one session every week beats three sessions in one week followed by a month off.
It’s also worth doing strength training alongside padel. The World Health Organization recommends that adults do muscle-strengthening activity on at least two days a week. You’ll find exercises that suit padel players in our strength training guide.
How do you find a group at your level?
Look for a group where all four players are at a similar level. In a group that’s too strong, you’ll hardly touch the ball. In one that’s too weak, you won’t improve.
- When you sign up, give your Playtomic level if you have one.
- Say how long and how often you’ve been playing.
- Ask for a trial session. Many coaches assess your level in the first session.
What should you ask before signing up?
- Who is the coach, and what qualifications or experience do they have?
- How many players are there per court?
- Does the price include court rental and balls?
- What happens if you miss a session because you’re ill? Can you get a make-up session?
- Do you pay per session or for a package?
Our guide to padel coaches explains how to choose one.
What should you bring to a session?
Bring a racket (or ask about renting one), padel or tennis shoes, a water bottle and a change of clothes. Arrive ten minutes early so you have time to get changed.
Is padel suitable for children?
Yes. Padel suits children because the court is small and rallies get going quickly. Kids’ classes often use lighter, shorter rackets. Centres that run them are listed on our kids’ classes page.
Can a company arrange a padel session?
Yes. Many centres run classes and tournaments for companies. For a company event, send us an enquiry.
How do you find a class?
Check your city’s page to see which centres offer classes: Tallinn, Tartu, Pärnu or all centres. Not sure where to start? Send us an enquiry and we’ll let you know where there’s a class at your level, at a time that suits you.