Padel, the Trendy Sport: Fun to Play, But Don’t Forget the Risk of Injury
Have you noticed your Instagram feed recently filled with people playing padel? Yes, this sport originating from Mexico is gaining popularity in Indonesia. It’s not just celebrities or influencers joining in, but the general public is also getting interested.
The reasons are simple: padel is fun, social, and makes players feel part of a trend. Especially for young people afraid of missing out, or FOMO. However, this sport has unique characteristics. Imagine tennis and squash combined, played on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls or wire fencing. The result? Intense, but also fun.
Don’t Just Follow the Crowd
Despite its popularity, there’s an important aspect often overlooked: physical and technical preparation. Many people recklessly play padel without warming up, without learning the basics, and end up risking injury.
According to health experts, the body needs to be prepared first. “At least 10-15 minutes of warm-up focusing on ankles, knees, shoulders, back, and elbows,” they explain.
For beginners, learning basic techniques is essential. From footwork, body positioning, to hitting techniques. It’s even better if guided by an instructor. Plus using appropriate equipment—special padel shoes with good grip, plus a racket suitable for your skill level. Don’t forget to maintain physical condition with muscle strengthening exercises through running, gym workouts, or calisthenics.
Lurking Injury Risks
If played carelessly, injuries can occur. Experts mention three most common problems for padel players:
Wrist or elbow injuries (similar to tennis elbow).
Knee and ankle injuries due to quick movements.
Lower back pain from repeated body rotation.
If injured, don’t panic. Apply the PRICE method (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) as first aid, stop playing, and immediately consult an orthopedic doctor. Quick treatment will speed up recovery.
Serious Benefits
Of course, padel isn’t just about risks. When played correctly, this sport offers many benefits. Physically, padel trains the heart, burns calories, and strengthens core muscles. The result is increased stamina and a fitter body.
Beyond that, padel is also good for mental health. Since it’s played in pairs or teams, this sport encourages social interaction, expands friendships, and serves as a stress reliever. “Padel can improve mood, self-confidence, and zest for life,” experts note.
Ready to Hit the Court?
Padel is indeed fun and trending, but don’t let FOMO make you neglect your health. Start slowly, prepare your body, use proper equipment, and understand the basic techniques. This way, you can enjoy the trend while keeping your body safe.
Instagram
Instagram is a social media platform and photo-sharing application launched in 2010, which allows users to upload, edit, and share visual content with followers. It rapidly grew in popularity due to its focus on mobile use and visual storytelling, leading to its acquisition by Facebook (now Meta) in 2012. Today, it has evolved into a major cultural site for communication, marketing, and digital influencer culture.
Mexico
Mexico is a country with a rich pre-Columbian history, home to advanced civilizations like the Maya and Aztec, whose monumental ruins, such as Chichén Itzá and Teotihuacán, still stand today. Following the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, it became a vibrant fusion of indigenous and European cultures, which is profoundly reflected in its traditions, cuisine, and architecture. Today, Mexico is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains, and its vibrant cultural contributions like mariachi music and Dia de los Muertos.
Indonesia
Indonesia is a Southeast Asian archipelago of over 17,000 islands with a rich history shaped by Hindu-Buddhist empires, the spread of Islam, and European colonialism, notably by the Dutch. It declared independence in 1945, establishing a unified republic with immense cultural and ethnic diversity. The country is renowned for its vibrant traditions, ancient temples like Borobudur, and stunning natural landscapes ranging from rainforests to volcanoes.
tennis
Tennis originated in 12th century France as a handball game called “jeu de paume” (game of the palm). The modern game, using rackets, developed in England during the 19th century, with the first Wimbledon Championship held in 1877 solidifying its rules. Today, it is a global Olympic sport played by millions at both recreational and professional levels.
squash
Squash is a racket sport that originated in England during the early 19th century, evolving from the game of rackets. It is played by two or four players in a four-walled court using a small, hollow rubber ball. The sport has since become popular worldwide, with professional tours and international competitions like the World Championships.
PRICE method
The PRICE method is not a place or cultural site, but a first-aid treatment protocol for acute soft tissue injuries. It is an acronym that stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, and was developed in the late 1970s as a standard approach to manage sprains, strains, and bruises. Its purpose is to minimize swelling, alleviate pain, and promote the healing process immediately following an injury.
Protection
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Rest
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