During the spring and summer months, it’s easy to see the benefits of outdoor padel. Longer, lighter days, the sunshine on your face – it’s a no brainer.

When it comes to the colder seasons, it may be tempting to shun the outdoor courts for an indoor alternative. However, there are all sorts of benefits to playing outside, even when it’s chilly. Read on to find out why padel doesn’t have to be a sunshine sport.

What is padel?

You may have heard of this relatively new sport, but exactly what is padel?

Over the last few years, padel has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing racquet sport. It was invented in Mexico in 1969, when Enrique Corcuera modified his own squash court to incorporate elements of tennis.

Typically played in doubles, padel is a cross between tennis and squash. The ball used is similar to a tennis ball, but the rackets are solid. Usually based outside, a padel court is fairly small and surrounded by walls. These walls are a key feature of the game, as similar to squash, players can use them to their advantage.

When a Spanish friend of Corcuera’s brought the idea back to Spain in the 1970s, the concept quickly took off. Padel has since become one of the most widely played sports in the country, and its popularity continues to grow across the world.

So why is padel so popular? With simpler rules than tennis, it’s easier to learn, making it more accessible. Although it can be competitive, it really is just a fun sport to play. Not only is it a great workout, it’s also very sociable, which widens its appeal to a whole new audience.

Why play padel outdoors?

Not so much of an issue in Mexico or Spain, but here in England, our weather can often be temperamental. Come rain or shine, we firmly believe outdoor sports don’t need to be reserved for the summer months. Even in the colder weather, playing padel outside is much more than just exercise – it’s a boost for your body and your mind.

If you’re still not convinced, here are some of the key benefits to playing padel outdoors.

Health and fitness

• Healthy body, healthy mind
  Sunshine helps your body produce vitamin D, supporting strong bones, a healthy immune system and a better mood. Sunny days are often fleeting in the colder months, so you’ve got to grab every opportunity you can to soak up those golden rays.
  
  
• Better oxygen intake
  Outdoor play means access to cleaner, fresher air – especially when you’re playing at Doddington. Set in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, you’ll be surrounded by rural land, with little pollution. Not only is a good breath of cool, fresh air beneficial for your mental health, it also helps to improve endurance and lung function.
  
  
• Varied conditions
  In England, the weather conditions can switch in a minute. Exposure to sun, wind and varying temperatures helps to keep you sharp and adaptable when playing. Compared to fair weather players, people who compete in diverse conditions are better prepared to adjust their strategies and technique.
  
  
• Higher calorie burn
  Playing padel outdoors especially when it’s cold, can make your body work harder. The longer you’re out in the cold, the more calories you’ll burn. If you can keep up with regular games in the cold weather, it’ll be even more effective in boosting your fitness.

Mental health and wellbeing

• Mood booster
  When you’re feeling blue, often the last thing you want to do is go outside and run around. That said, research shows that outdoor activity lowers stress and anxiety levels. Padel is a fairly relaxed sport, so it’s a great way to distract your mind, without being too much of a challenge. Playing out in the fresh air is an even bigger mood booster. Whether you join our Social Padel sessions or have one-to-one coaching, playing outdoors with like-minded people is certain to lift your spirits.
  

• Connect with nature
  Spending time in nature gives you a real sense of freedom, calming your mind and grounding your senses. At Doddington, our courts boast some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, and you can quite often hear the birds whilst you play. If you want to clear your head before a game, you are always welcome to take a walk around the estate. Our walking trails are free to access, and open all year-round. With a more focused mind, you’ll be able to concentrate on your technique and leave your worries behind!
  
  
• Counteract screen fatigue
  If you’ve got a computer based job, or spend a lot of time on your phone, stepping away from the screen is essential. Excessive screen time and use of social media can affect your sleep, leaving you feeling lethargic and potentially even impacting your mental health. Playing padel outdoors, with no access to your phone, is a great way to reset your mind and connect with people – in real life!
  
  

Social and lifestyle

Plan your visit

So next time you think about cosying up on an indoor court, consider heading outside instead. Outdoor padel boosts your energy, improves your wellbeing and helps you become a more versatile player. Brave a few sessions in the cold and you’ll be ready for any match that comes your way!

All we ever recommend is that you wrap up warm before – and after – you play. Once you get started, you’ll be shedding your layers in no time. And of course, it always helps to warm up with a hot drink in the Grain Store after your game. Show your booking confirmation and you’ll even receive 10% off!

The Doddington padel courts are open seven days a week, from 7am-10pm. To book a game, coaching session or attend one of our events, simply click the link below.