# Padel: My New Cardio Hobby

> Padel is the fast-growing sport that delivers serious cardio and social benefits.
- Title: Padel: My New Cardio Hobby · Men's Health | Shortify
- Summary: Padel is the fast-growing sport that delivers serious cardio and social benefits.
- Keywords: padel, cardio, fitness, social interaction, longevity, tennis, racket sport, indoor courts, john candy, sweatpants, puffer vest, Men's Health
- Source: Men's Health — https://menshealth.com/fitness/a74315478/padel-cardio-raquet-sport
- Author: Richard Dorment
- Published: 2026-11-07T12:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: padel, cardio, fitness, social interaction, longevity, tennis, racket sport, indoor courts, john candy, sweatpants, puffer vest
## Shoulds vs. Action
I struggle with shoulds like 'I should work out' but find hobbies and cardio improve health.

> I really should work out. I really shouldn’t eat that.
## Padel: The Sport
Padel combines tennis, racquetball, and squash into a fast-paced, cardio-intensive game.
## Cardio Benefits
Padel provides intense cardio and anaerobic exercise that boost cardiovascular health and brain function.
## Social Connection
Playing padel with others builds community and reduces loneliness, linked to longer life.
## Tennis Comparison
Tennis is marketed as 'the world’s healthiest sport' but padel delivers more intense cardio and social benefits.
## First Experience
My first padel game left me sweaty, sore, and exuberant after two hours on an indoor court.
## Health Impact
Padel improves cardiovascular health, brain function, and reduces risk of heart disease through intense activity.
## Next Steps
I should start training for padel to meet the winter indoor courts and improve my health.
## Key takeaway

Richard Dorment found padel combines cardio, social interaction, and fun to improve health and longevity.