Wheelchair Padel: Rules and Where to Play

Wheelchair padel follows the same core game as standing padel, doubles, glass walls, the same court, but with a handful of adapted rules that make it fully competitive at every level, from social play to national championships.

The key rule change: two bounces allowed

The biggest adaptation is that the ball can bounce twice on the ground before being returned, instead of once. This accounts for the reduced mobility of playing from a chair and keeps rallies genuinely competitive rather than over in two shots.

Staying in the chair at all times

Players must remain in contact with their wheelchair throughout play, they can't push off or brake with their feet on the ground. Safety belts or straps that keep the player secured to the chair are mandatory, both for safety during quick direction changes and to keep the rules consistent across matches.

The serve: below the shoulders instead of the waist

Since reaching down to waist height isn't practical from a seated position, the serve is hit below shoulder height instead, following the same underhand principle as standing padel.

Court requirements

Courts used for wheelchair padel need two access points, one on each side, wide enough for a wheelchair to pass through freely, and no obstacles that would block entry or exit during play.

Where to play and compete

In Spain, wheelchair padel is organised through the Federación Española de Deportes de Personas con Discapacidad Física (FEDDF) alongside regional associations and clubs such as Asociación de Pádel para Todos (ASPADO) and Padel Integra. The Campeonato de España de pádel en silla de ruedas is the top national competition, and most padel-heavy regions now have at least a few clubs running regular adapted sessions, worth checking with your local federation or club for the closest one.