Padel Tennis Is The Latest Lifestyle Trend in Accra. What It Is & Where To Find A Court.
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, typically played in doubles on an enclosed court which is one-third the size of a tennis court. The game originating in Mexico in the 1960s and has already gained immense popularity in Spain, USA and even right here in Ghana and other countries. Padel is played with solid rackets and a depressurized ball. There’s padel rackets for both adults and children. You can play mixed doubles or singles.
The game features walls that can be used strategically during play, allowing for creative shots and rallies. With its simplified rules and emphasis on teamwork, padel is accessible to players of all skill and age levels, making it a popular choice for both recreational and competitive play. Here in Ghana, padel courts have become popular over the past two years.and it keeps rising due to the lower cost of setup as compared to a tennis court..
Padel Court Locations in Accra.
My first time seeing a padel court was at the Mamba Club in Labone where it’s located strategically behind the D’Cafe coffeeshop. Coffee lovers get to have a live viewing experience thanks to a glass wall separating the two spaces. It’s actually fascinating especially if you love traditional tennis or squash. Games are available per session or membership basis.
Then lo and behold, one recently opened in my neighborhood (Nyaniba Estates) I couldn’t believe it when I first entered Aura a lifestyle wellness center. It has a padel court, a gym, a sauna, an ice tub and a pool to cool down after a game. An all-in-one no-excuse place for gettting in top shape! The padel court is beautifully walled and carpeted. Padel accessories are also available in the reception for rent or purchase. You can be a member or pay per hour single use.
Padel Up is another padel court which is located in Labone. Check out their location here.
The Padel Club Ghana can be found in Adjirigano for those living within East Legon and other environs. They offer court bookings, coaching and conduct tournaments every now and then. Find them on Instagram here.
Padel Equipments
Several sports shops in the city sell the rackets, balls and other accessories but I’d also recommend you go to Decathlon at the Accra Mall.
Most of these courts are open early by 7am with a late closure especially for workers who want to have a spot of play after work. The latest time I have seen is 11pm.
Padel tennis like any other sport offers a variety of lifestyle benefits that contribute to your physical and mental well-being.
Physical Benefits
1. Cardiovascular Health: Playing padel enhances cardiovascular fitness, helping improve heart health through the run arounds on the court.
2. Improved Coordination: The fast-paced nature of the game requires good hand-eye coordination and agility, which can enhance your overall coordination skills.
3. Strength Building: While padel primarily involves quick movements, it also engages various muscle groups, contributing to strength development, particularly in the legs and core.
4. Flexibility: The diverse range of movements associated with padel can help improve flexibility over time, reducing the risk of injuries in both sports and everyday activities. It can be played at a slow pace depending on the players ability.
Mental Benefits
1. Stress Relief: Engaging in physical activity like padel can act as a stress reliever, lowering levels of anxiety and promoting a positive mood due to the release of endorphins. After several zoom meetings, team briefings your mind can feel overloaded. Padel after work is always a good idea.
2. Social Interaction: Padel is often played in doubles, fostering social connections and providing opportunities to meet new people, new business opportunities and strengthen your existing relationships. Team away-day anyone?
3. Enhanced Focus: The strategic elements of the game require concentration and quick decision-making, which can enhance mental acuity and focus.
Lifestyle Integration
1. Accessibility: Padel can be played by individuals of varying skill levels and ages, making it an inclusive sport that can easily fit into different lifestyles.
2. Community Engagement: Many communities have seen the rise of padel clubs and facilities, promoting communal participation and fostering a sense of belonging among players.
3. Fun and Enjoyment: The enjoyable nature of padel can make regular exercise feel less daunting as you are more likely to look forward to something to be enjoyed.
Eager to learn how to play padel? Watch this video as a start.
