Could you start by giving us a short introduction about yourself?

My name is Julio Pulido, I am from Cádiz (El Puerto de Santa María) and I am 31 years old.

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What was the first introduction you’ve got to Padel?

I started playing padel when I was 7 years old and have been competing ever since. When I turned 18, I joined the professional circuit, competing in the World Padel Tour. Currently, I’m competing in FIP tournaments for the world ranking and for the past 3 years I’ve also played in the KNLTB (National Federation of the Netherlands).

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What motivated you to start teaching padel and how would you describe your style of coaching?

I started coaching at 16 years old at the club where I grew as a player (Pádel Las Marías, El Puerto de Santa María) to save money and to be able to travel for high-level competitions. I began by teaching kids and some adults and realized I was good at it and enjoyed helping others improve. During that time I began my official studies, earning all the certifications from the FEP (Federación Española de Pádel) approved by the CSD (Consejo Superior de Deportes). I also had the privilege of training with some of the best coaches and players in the world.

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In what way do you feel the sport is different in Spain and did you have to adapt in any way to this?

Padel started a long time ago in Spain, so Spanish players and coaches have more experience. On the other hand, in the Netherlands, the sport is “new” and growing rapidly. On the courts, I noticed that many beginner students and among advanced players, they come from a tennis background. Their style is different and they often play to win points with hard shots, but they lack tactical game plans. Spanish players however, build the point, connecting shots, they’re changing pace and using tactics. With experience and time I believe that Dutch players will also develop this as well. As a coach, I first analyze my students’ knowledge and provide the advice and tips they need.

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How do you structure your training routine to improve both your physical endurance and technical skills?

I train on the court for an hour and a half each day with a padel coach, then an hour with a personal trainer and visit the physio once or twice a week. On the mental side, I do exercises at home to improve concentration and also practice visualizing matches.

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How do you approach coaching children who are interested in starting to play padel?

When you’re young, the main objective is for the child to have fun through educational games and helping them to see sport as something they can enjoy. As the child progresses, their skills become clearer and we can see if they would like to compete.

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What do you consider the most important aspect of a lesson for your clients?

In this sport, the tactical and mental aspects are some of the most important. Padel is like a game of chess and we’re better players when we use game plans, connect shots and control the rhythm of the game. This gives us an advantage over our opponents.

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Can you tell us a little more about you as a professional padel player?

I am an aggressive, physical and creative player. These are the defining aspects of my game. I compete for the FIP ranking (where I’m in the top 400 players globally) and at the national level in the Netherlands (top 10 in the KNLTB ranking).

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Since when did you start competing (and why)?

My parents started playing padel at a club near our house, which is why I started lessons at a very young age. They noticed my competitiveness early on and I began competing at 7 years old.

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What do you eat and drink to maintain your fitness and overall health as a padel player? What specific areas of your game are you currently focusing on improving, and what steps are you taking to get better?

I hydrate a lot, eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and carbohydrates and focus on my pace changes. I feel better at fast and aggressive play, so I focus on training defense, changing pace and improving my mental game to make better decisions.

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How do you mentally and physically prepare yourself before a padel match?

The day before a match, I visualize the different possibilities that could occur. If I have any information about my opponents then I study it to think of possible tactics that will adapt to their game. On the day of the match, I warm up with mobility exercises, explosive drills and heart rate-raising activities. I do this all accompanied by music to help me focus and perform at my best.

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How do you stay focused and motivated when you’re down in a match or when things aren’t going your way?

In tense moments I take a few seconds to lower my heart rate and find a positive mindset so I can think of tactical solutions and continue performing at my best, fighting for every ball.

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What is the best tip or advice you would give to your client who is:

A beginner player: Enjoy the sport because it’s a great way to socialize and have fun. Don’t let mistakes frustrate you and just enjoy the game!

A intermediate player: Padel isn’t just about hard shots. It’s a tactical sport, so start thinking about connecting shots and building game plans.

A advanced player: Focus on enjoying the process, not just the result. Results will come with consistent effort. Stay focused and enjoy what you do!

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