We are excited to introduce our newest racket sport, which is coming soon to Bluecoat Sports: padel! Four state-of-the-art padel courts will be added to our racket sports facilities.

Padel is a fast-growing global sport combining elements of tennis and squash to create a unique and exhilarating experience. Our state-of-the-art outdoor courts will be available for hire to both members and non-members, allowing everyone to enjoy this exciting game.

Whether you are a seasoned padel player or trying it out for the first time, our courts are designed to provide the perfect setting for a thrilling match. Padel is a social sport, typically played in doubles, which is perfect for getting active and meeting new people. So gather your friends or family, book a court online, and get ready for an unforgettable game!

Please note that our padel courts aren’t open yet. Check back here at a later date to find out more about when they will open.

Hire racket a court

Padel at Bluecoat Sports

The four new padel tennis courts will join our already impressive racket sports facilities, which include six squash courts, six outdoor tennis courts, and facilities for badminton, short tennis, and table tennis. The padel courts will be bookable for members and non-members alike, allowing everyone to enjoy this new and popular sport.

Located at our Horsham site, our padel courts are just outside the entrance to the main building. You’ll be able to hire a court and any equipment you need to get started with a game of padel. Padel is the perfect sport for families and friends, as it’s fun, easy to pick up, and has a competitive element.

Are you unsure what padel is or how to play it? We’ll be holding a range of taster sessions and introductions to the sport in the run-up to opening our new padel courts. Our fitness team will explain the rules, show you how to play, and give you a chance to play a proper game.

Health Benefits

Padel is a dynamic and popular sport that is gaining momentum in the UK. Combining elements of tennis and squash, it is played on a smaller court with solid walls and a stringed racket similar to tennis. Padel tennis offers numerous health benefits to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

Improved cardiovascular fitness

One key advantage of playing padel is its cardiovascular benefits. The game requires constant movement, which helps to improve endurance and stamina. Regular participation in social padel sessions or joining padel clubs can contribute to a healthier heart and improved overall cardiovascular fitness.

Improved muscular strength

Padel also helps to improve muscular strength and endurance. The sport involves using a racket to strike the ball, which engages the muscles in the arms, shoulders, and upper body. The constant movement and quick reflexes required to play padel also work the lower body muscles, including the legs and core.

Social interaction

Joining a padel club or hiring a padel court with friends or family offers great social interaction and mental well-being opportunities. Playing the sport not only provides a fun and enjoyable experience but also helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, which are known to boost mood and improve mental health.

Easy to learn and play

The smaller court size (compared to a tennis court) and solid walls make it easier for beginners to pick up the sport compared to traditional tennis. The slower pace and shorter rallies allow players to focus on technique and strategy, making it a great option for individuals of all skill levels. Additionally, padel tennis can be enjoyed by people of different ages and fitness levels, making it a versatile sport for everyone to enjoy.

FAQs about padel

What is Padel?

Padel, also known as paddle tennis, is a racket sport typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court. It combines elements of tennis and squash. The court has walls on all sides, allowing players to use the walls as part of the game strategy.

Who can play padel?

Padel is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It is suitable for both recreational and competitive play. The game’s rules and court dimensions make it accessible to beginners while still offering a challenging and engaging experience for more advanced players. Although the courts are outside, they are covered, allowing year-round play.

What equipment do you need to play padel?

The primary equipment needed for padel includes:

Padel rackets: These rackets are smaller and more rigid than tennis rackets, with a rough surface to provide more spin on the ball.
Padel balls: Slightly smaller than tennis balls, padel balls have a lower bounce and a slower speed, making them easier to control.
Non-marking court shoes (optional): To protect the court surface and provide proper traction.
Eye protection (optional): Some players choose to wear eye guards for added safety.

Why is padel becoming so popular?

Padel has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years due to several factors:

Accessibility: The smaller court size and lower-bouncing balls make padel easier to learn and enjoy for players of all ages and skill levels.
Social Aspect: Padel’s doubles format and enclosed courts create a social and interactive atmosphere, making it a great way to socialise and have fun with friends or family.
Low-Impact Exercise: Padel provides a full-body workout while being relatively low-impact, making it an attractive option for those seeking an enjoyable way to stay active.