The game of padel has taken the world by storm, and it's becoming the fastest growing sport in the US. A Forbes article titled "Gen Z Will Help Padel Become The Next Hot Sport" reported that "...padel will likely be the next huge sport, with a 26% growth in courts in 2023 alone. More than 4.5 million rackets were sold last year."
With an large influx of new players every day and professional athletes grasping for titles, many are asking "what are the best supplements for padel players?"
In this article, we'll give you the top 5 science-backed supplements that are best suited for padel players. These are confirmed by Jaclyn Sklaver, MS, CNS, LDN, ISAK-1, a professional formulator who has designed supplements for over 500 professional athletes.
Top 5 Supplements for Padel Players
#1: Electrolytes
This one might seem obvious, but electrolytes are #1 for good reason. They're essential for rapid rehydration, preventing cramps and for maintaining strong muscle contractions during long rallies and hot court conditions.
The main electrolytes to include in your pre-match drink are:
Sodium:
- The primary extracellular ion that's critical for fluid balance, blood pressure and nerve conduction.
- Optimizes nerve signaling for quick, coordinated movements.
- Replaces sweat that is lost during long and intense rallies.
Potassium:
- The intracellular electrolyte that balances sodium and supports cardiac and muscle function.
- Helps reduce fatigue and cramping during high-intensity play.
- Helps regulate heart rate under continual physical stress.
Magnesium:
- The cofactor electrolyte in 300+ enzymatic reactions that is key for muscle relaxation, nerve health and ATP production.
- Supports energy production for sustained performance.
- Helps calm down the nervous system to help you maintain focus.
For all high intensity physical activity, electrolytes are a must.
#2: Cordyceps
Sitting in the silver position are Cordyceps mushrooms. Cordyceps have been used in China for centuries and Chinese Olympic runners in the 1990's credited them for their record breaking endurance and recovery capabilities.
- Increases VO₂ max, boosts ATP production and enhances oxygen utilization.
- Nicknamed "the third lung" for it's ability to boost oxygen intake.
- Acts as an adaptogen to help improve stress resilience and decrease performance anxiety during competitive matches.
If you want to maintain controlled breathing while your opponent is winded and gasping for air, cordyceps are your secret weapon.
#3: Alpha GPC
Standing tall in the bronze position is Alpha GPC, a choline compound naturally found in the human body. It was originally developed as a prescription nootropic in Europe before it went mainstream.
- It's a neurotransmitter that enhances cognitive functions and muscle performance.
- Enhances focus and mental clarity for optimal shot selection.
- Improves reaction speed so you can return fast serves off the glass.
If you want to catch an edge on the court and maintain resilience while the opposing team loses steam, Alpha GPC should be added to the mix.
#4: Caffeine
Novak Djokovic famously stated "I like a good quality coffee.. It's a ritual," and has been seen drinking espressos on the sidelines during tournaments. There's a reason why a ton of athletes drink caffeine before they play, after all it's the world's most consumed stimulant.
- Enhances alertness and promotes quick reaction time while playing.
- Gives you some pep-in-your-step and helps you 'wake up' for those morning matches.
- Reduces perceived exertion, helping you trick your body into pushing a higher output level.
The key to caffeine comes down to dosing. Too little (50mg) and you probably won't feel it. Too much (150mg+) and you'll feel jittery and lack composure.
#5: L-Citrulline
L-Citrulline is the lesser known of the top 5's, but is quickly becoming a game-changing ace up your sleeve on the padel courts. It's a naturally occurring amino acid found in watermelons that helps boost nitric oxide production.
- Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels which improves blood flow, oxygen delivery and nutrient transport to your muscles.
- Helps reduce fatigue so you can battle longer during those long deuce runs.
- Supports faster recovery for extended rallies or back-to-back matches.
L-Citrulline is hidden gem when it comes to peak performance in racket sports. It doesn't make the headlines much, but it can give you a step up on the competition.
Meet Vibras: The Ultimate All-In-One Padel Supplement
Designed by padel players, chemists and a Certified Nutritionist Specialist with a racket sport concentration... Vibras includes all of the top 5 supplements for padel players along with three other ingredients for peak performance.
Best Padel Supplement for Peak PerformanceVibras: Hydration + Energy Drink Mix
Lab Testing Results
Why It's The Best:
Pros & Cons