How to Reach Intermediate Padel Level in 90 Days

Intermediate level in padel is the point where you are no longer just returning balls, but building points, moving correctly with your partner and taking control of the net. This plan gets you there in 90 days, in three clear phases, with milestones you can actually measure.

What intermediate level means in padel

An intermediate player sustains a stable rally, serves and returns reliably, knows how to read where to stand, and starts to control the net zone with a basic shot like the bandeja. It is not a matter of power, but of consistency, positioning and decision-making.

Phase 1: Days 1 to 30, the fundamentals

The goal in the first month is control and consistency, not power.

• One continental grip for every shot, which is what lets you switch quickly between strokes.
• A low ready stance, active feet, racket out in front.
• Plenty of practice against the wall to develop your reading of rebounding balls.
• Flat, controlled shots over the net, with one goal: just get the ball back.

Milestone: ten balls in a row in a rally without losing control.

Phase 2: Days 31 to 60, consistency and movement

Now you add positioning and paired movement.

• Moving as a pair, you and your partner shift together as if joined by a single thread.
• The defensive lob to buy time and move up to the net.
• Controlling balls that rebound off the back wall instead of running away from them.
• Short, clear communication with your partner on every ball down the middle.

Milestone: move up to the net after a lob and finish at least one point every game.

Phase 3: Days 61 to 90, tactics and net control

In the final third you build points and add advanced shots.

• The bandeja, the shot that keeps you at the net and maintains the pressure.
• Net control, closing angles and deciding when to finish the point.
• Point construction, staying patient until the right short ball arrives.
• Serving and returning with intent, not just getting the ball in but placing it.

Milestone: play a full match where you set the pace instead of being dragged along.

How to avoid plateauing

Most players plateau because they try to hit too hard or always play against the same opponents. The fix: play against players slightly better than you, film a match every couple of weeks and see what keeps happening, and work on one weakness at a time.

How much time per week you need

Two to three training sessions per week plus one match are more than enough to get through all three phases within 90 days, as long as they are consistent.

How to know you reached intermediate in padel

• You sustain long rallies with confidence and do not fear a fast ball.
• Your serve is stable and you control direction, not just getting it in.
• You start thinking tactically: where to place the ball, not just returning it.
• You feel comfortable against more experienced players.

Breaking the glass ceiling: a real move from beginner to intermediate

Most players get stuck because they repeat what they already know. To progress, devote each session to one specific weakness: a shot you avoid, a situation that confuses you, or a weak side. Focused practice of one thing at a time breaks ceilings faster than aimless play.

The most important thing at this stage: play challenging opponents

Real improvement comes from playing people slightly better than you. They force you to react faster and think better. Find open games and partners at or slightly above your level through an app, and you get a steady stream of challenges that move you forward.