Grips in Padel: Continental, and Why You Rarely Need Anything Else
A simple guide to holding the racket properly.
Grip changes cause more bad padel than bad technique.
The Continental Grip
Hold the racket like a hammer, knuckle of your index finger on the top-right bevel for a right-hander. This is your default.
Why It Works Everywhere
Volleys, bandejas, smashes, serves and wall play all come off continental. One grip, no changes under pressure.
Where People Go Wrong
Tennis players bring a semi-western forehand across. It works for two weeks, then the volleys and overheads fall apart.
Loose Hands
Grip pressure should be around four out of ten. Tight hands kill touch and tire the forearm.
Grip Size
Padel handles are short and thin by design. If yours feels big, you are probably holding it too far up.
Overgrips
Replace them more often than you think — every eight to ten hours of play. A slick grip makes you squeeze harder.
Test Yourself
If you change grip mid-rally, film a set on your phone. You will see it immediately.