The Padel School Podcast

Why do so many players get stuck at the 3.5–4.0 level? In this episode, we break down the real reasons behind the plateau—and why simply playing more matches won’t fix it.
We explore how early improvement can be misleading, especially for players coming from other racket sports, and why missing fundamentals like footwork, preparation, and positioning eventually catch up with you. We also unpack the biggest misconception: that going back to basics means going backwards—when in reality, it’s the only way forward.
Plus, we share a clear action plan to help you break through: how to identify what’s actually holding you back, how to focus your training effectively, and why repetition and structured practice are key to long-term progress.
If you feel stuck in your game or want to avoid hitting that plateau altogether, this episode gives you the roadmap to keep improving.

EXPLORE OUR OFFERS:
The Padel School Membership (with FREE Trial) 
Access 75+ Drills for Every Level: TPS Drill Book For Players 
Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide 
Win Matches with a Stronger Mindset: Get our Mental Toughness Course

Footwear is one of the most overlooked parts of padel—but it plays a huge role in both performance and injury prevention. In this episode, we break down what the pros do, from changing into court-specific shoes before stepping on court to choosing the right sole for modern surfaces.
We dive into the common mistakes we see at clubs especially players wearing running shoes—and explain why they’re simply not designed for the lateral movement, stopping, and turning that padel demands. It’s not just about playing better, it’s about protecting your ankles, knees, and overall movement on court.
We also cover what recreational players should actually look for in a shoe: stability, comfort, flexibility, and durability. Plus, simple habits that can make your shoes last longer and perform better over time.
If you’re serious about improving your game or just want to stay injury-free, this is one of the easiest upgrades you can make.
EXPLORE OUR OFFERS:
The Padel School Membership (with FREE Trial) 
Access 75+ Drills for Every Level: TPS Drill Book For Players 
Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide 
Win Matches with a Stronger Mindset: Get our Mental Toughness Course

Are individual padel lessons really the best way to improve?
In this episode, Sandy and Tom break down the role of private coaching vs group sessions. While one-on-one lessons can be powerful for fixing specific technical issues—especially with video analysis—they explore why they’ve become so popular, and whether that’s always justified.
From the appeal of a “VIP” coaching experience to the realities of how clubs structure their sessions, they uncover how culture shapes what players believe they need. They also share why, in the right environment, high-quality group training can be just as effective—if not more so—for long-term improvement.

EXPLORE OUR OFFERS:
The Padel School Membership (with FREE Trial) 
Access 75+ Drills for Every Level: TPS Drill Book For Players 
Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide 
Win Matches with a Stronger Mindset: Get our Mental Toughness Course

How much do rankings really mean in padel right now?
In this episode, Sandy and Tom explore the reality of rankings in a fast-growing sport. Unlike tennis, where rankings are well-established and clearly reflect level, padel is still evolving — and that creates a very different landscape.
They discuss why a top 50 ranking in the UK doesn’t always tell the full story, how players can climb quickly through tournaments and partnerships, and why this current phase presents a unique opportunity.
As the sport continues to grow, rankings will become more competitive and more accurate — but for now, there’s a window for players to make their move.

EXPLORE OUR OFFERS:
The Padel School Membership (with FREE Trial) 
Access 75+ Drills for Every Level: TPS Drill Book For Players 
Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide 
Win Matches with a Stronger Mindset: Get our Mental Toughness Course

In this episode, Sandy and Tom explore one of the most overlooked aspects of padel: how conditions change the game.
From fast, hot tournaments like Riyadh to cold indoor clubs in the UK, the environment can dramatically affect tactics, shot selection, and decision-making. The discussion breaks down how professional players adapt during tournaments, why conditions can create unexpected upsets, and what recreational players should adjust in their own matches.
They cover the impact of temperature, wind, court type, and even ball condition, explaining why the same court can feel completely different from one day to the next. Whether you’re playing outdoors in the summer, indoors in winter, or on a damp court, understanding these changes can help you make smarter decisions and win more points.
If you want to improve your awareness on court and adapt your game more effectively, this episode will help you see padel from a whole new perspective.

EXPLORE OUR OFFERS:
The Padel School Membership (with FREE Trial) 
Access 75+ Drills for Every Level: TPS Drill Book For Players 
Our BOOK - The Padel Player's Guide 
Win Matches with a Stronger Mindset: Get our Mental Toughness Course