Bradford’s First Indoor Padel Centre Set to Open
Bradford is set to welcome its first indoor padel centre, marking a new era for sports enthusiasts in the city. The initiative, led by a team of professionals including two pharmacists and a dentist, aims to introduce this exciting sport to the local community.
Strike Padel is scheduled to open at Beckside Business Park in Lidget Green from late July. The centre will offer a range of services, including court bookings, coaching sessions, and a cafe serving a variety of drinks, such as matcha. In addition, the facility will host regular women-only session times, making it an inclusive space for all.
The venture was founded by clinical practitioners Fahad Qureshi and Mohammed Rashad, along with dentist Dr Mohammed Usman. Fahad, who grew up in the BD3 area of the city, expressed his pride in being born and raised in Bradford. He shared his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the importance of bringing new activities to the local community.
Padel, often described as a fun, fast-paced, and accessible sport, combines elements of tennis and squash. It has been recognized as the “fastest-growing sport in the world” by The Lawn Tennis Association. While there are existing padel facilities in nearby areas like Ilkley and Rawdon, this new business represents the first dedicated centre for the sport in Bradford.
The idea for the centre stems from the founders’ experiences in the health sector. Dr Usman, a local dentist, emphasized the impact of poor general health on the community. He noted that Bradford has some of the highest rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in the UK, with many residents facing challenges related to physical inactivity and mental health.
According to Dr Usman, padel offers a unique opportunity for people of all fitness levels to engage in a sport that promotes movement, teamwork, and friendly competition. He believes that trying a new sport like padel can be transformative, especially for adults who may find traditional exercise routines tedious.
“The key is to start small,” he said. “When movement becomes something you look forward to rather than something you ‘have’ to do, the motivation will come naturally.”
Padel is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental wellbeing. It provides a social environment where individuals can connect, reduce stress, and enjoy themselves. As a dentist, Dr Usman has always emphasized the importance of preventative care, which includes maintaining an active lifestyle.
He encouraged those looking to improve their health to consider starting with a new sport like padel. Its accessibility and fun nature make it an ideal choice for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether someone is seeking a way to stay active or simply looking for a new hobby, padel offers a welcoming and engaging experience.
With the opening of Strike Padel, Bradford is taking a significant step towards promoting health and wellness through sport. The centre is expected to become a hub for both locals and visitors, offering a unique blend of recreation, community engagement, and health-focused activities.
