Padel Changeovers and Rest Times
Also known as: padel changeover time, padel rest between games, time between points in padel, can you drink between points in padel, padel drinking rule, padel break between sets, how long is a padel changeover
Under FIP rules you get up to 20 seconds between points and up to 90 seconds when you change ends. There is no rest after the first game of a set. The break at the end of a set is up to 120 seconds. The 2026 rules also say you may not eat or drink between points, so save your water for the changeovers.
Rule 2 of the FIP rules sets the clock for a match. Play should run on from the first serve to the last point. A match is not paused so a player can recover or get advice.
Between points you have up to 20 seconds. When you change ends after an odd game, you have up to 90 seconds. After the first game of each set, play is continuous. You change ends without a rest. At the end of a set, the break is up to 120 seconds. In a tie-break you change ends after every six points, with 20 seconds for each change.
The 2026 rules add a line that changes club habits. No food or drink may be taken between points. Drinks and snacks now belong in the changeover breaks. The clock runs from the end of one point to the serve of the next.
Time limits are enforced by the umpire. A first time violation brings a warning. A repeat costs the first serve if your pair is serving, or a point if not.
Tips by skill level
Keep your bottle and towel by the bench and use them only at the changeovers.
Use the 90 seconds in a set routine. Drink first, then agree one tactical point with your partner, then stand up early so you start the next game ready.
Example
Ana is thirsty after a long rally at 2-1. She waits for the changeover at 3-1, then drinks and towels off in the 90-second break.
Why it matters
Knowing the breaks helps you plan when to drink, when to talk tactics with your partner and how to keep your rhythm.
Common mistakes
- Stopping for a drink between points
- Taking a rest after the first game of a set
- Using the whole changeover to chat instead of planning the next game
- Letting the 20 seconds between points stretch out in a match with an umpire
Frequently asked questions
When do you change ends in padel?
After the first, third and every later odd game of the set. In a tie-break you change ends after every six points.
Can you drink between points in padel?
No. The 2026 FIP rules say no food or drink may be taken between points. Drink at the changeovers or the set break instead.
How long is the break between sets in padel?
Up to 120 seconds under FIP rules. A changeover between games is up to 90 seconds, and there is no rest after the first game of a set.
Sources
Related terms
- Padel Serving and Receiving OrderIn padel, players take turns serving whole games. A coin toss decides which pair serves first, and at the start of every set each pair chooses which of its players serves first. Each game starts from the right side, and the server switches sides after every point. On the receiving pair, each player keeps the same side for the whole set.
- Padel TiebreakA padel tiebreak is played at 6-6 in a set. Scoring runs 1, 2, 3, and the first pair to reach 7 with a 2-point lead wins the set 7-6. The first server serves once, then each player serves twice in turn, and players change ends every 6 points. Some events replace the third set with a match tiebreak to 7 or a super tiebreak to 10.
- Padel Scoring SystemPadel uses the same point, game, and set structure as tennis. That means 15, 30, 40, game, best of three sets, with a tiebreak at 6 games all. The common difference is how deuce is played. The FIP rules allow advantage scoring, Star Point (two chances at advantage, then a deciding point) or the Golden Point (one deciding point at 40–40).
- Padel Warm-UpA good padel warm-up starts before you step on court. Begin with light movement to raise your heart rate, then dynamic moves for the shoulders, hips, calves and ankles. On court, rally from the net and the back, then hit a few volleys, lobs, overheads and serves at easy pace. Stop if something hurts.
- Playing Padel in Hot WeatherIn the heat, the padel ball bounces higher and plays faster. Choose control over power, keep your lobs deep and give balls off the back glass extra room. Drink at regular intervals, wear sun protection and play early or late in the day when you can. If you feel dizzy, unwell or unusually tired, stop and rest in the shade, and get medical help if you don't feel better soon.
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