Why Many Padel Players Stop Improving
Most padel players improve quickly at the beginning — then suddenly plateau. This usually happens at the intermediate level, where mistakes become more subtle but far more costly.
The problem isn’t effort.
It’s repeating the same bad habits.
Mistake #1: Playing Too Much From the Baseline
Intermediate players often feel “safe” at the back of the court. But padel is won at the net, not from the glass.
Why this hurts your game:
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You give opponents control
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You react instead of dictate
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You miss finishing opportunities
Fix:
Move forward after neutral or defensive lobs, not only perfect shots.
Mistake #2: Hitting Too Hard Instead of Too Smart
Power works at beginner levels. At intermediate levels, it causes:
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More unforced errors
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Easy counterattacks
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Poor recovery positioning
Padel rewards placement, height, and patience — not brute force.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the Walls Instead of Using Them
Many intermediate players:
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Panic after the first wall bounce
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Play rushed shots
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Avoid back glass entirely
Advanced players invite the ball to the wall to gain time and better angles.
Mistake #4: Poor Net Positioning
Standing too close to the net:
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Makes you vulnerable to lobs
Standing too far back: -
Removes pressure
Correct position:
One to two steps behind the net, ready to move forward or back instantly.
Mistake #5: Not Adapting to Opponents
Intermediate players often play their game only, ignoring:
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Opponent weaknesses
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Partner strengths
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Match tempo
Winning padel is about adaptation, not repetition.
Final Thoughts
Breaking past intermediate level requires awareness, patience, and positioning — not harder shots.
Fix these mistakes, and improvement comes fast.