Padel looks social and accessible, but repeated overhead shots, quick changes of direction and short explosive rallies can place real demands on the elbows, shoulders, knees, ankles and lower back. Here is what players over 30 should realistically know about collagen.
Padel has grown rapidly across Britain, attracting both complete beginners and experienced racquet-sport players. Its smaller court and doubles format can make it feel easier to enter than tennis, but that does not mean the body experiences no load.
Padel combines repeated acceleration and deceleration, lateral movement, rotation, overhead shots and frequent changes in body position. Recreational players may also increase their weekly playing time quickly because the sport is social and easy to book.
A systematic review of padel injuries included populations with mean ages ranging from 31 to 57. Across the limited studies available, the elbow was the most frequently reported injury location, followed by the knee, shoulder and lower back. Tendon and muscle injuries were commonly reported.
Being over 30 does not automatically make padel unsafe or mean that injury is inevitable. It does make it sensible to respect accumulated training history, previous injuries, work-related sitting, strength levels and how quickly playing volume is increased.
Collagen Basics
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body. It is present in tissues including skin, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Hydrolysed collagen supplements contain smaller collagen peptides and amino acids including glycine, proline and hydroxyproline.
Consumed collagen does not travel directly to an uncomfortable elbow, sore knee or stiff shoulder. Like other dietary proteins, it is digested.
Collagen is also not a complete protein and should not replace whey, eggs, dairy, meat, fish, soy or other complete protein sources used to meet overall protein and essential amino-acid requirements.
Research context
Research relevant to padel players uses specific collagen peptide ingredients, doses, study designs and participant groups. Findings should be interpreted within those study conditions rather than treated as proof of a guaranteed result for every reader.
Published findings relate to the ingredient and outcomes studied. Revayo Prime is a food supplement and is not a substitute for professional advice, rehabilitation or medical care.
Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage, bones, skin, blood vessels, gums and teeth. This authorised claim relates to the Vitamin C in Revayo Prime.
There is no proven universal timing rule for padel. Follow the directions for the specific product and choose a repeatable time that fits your routine. Consistency is more practical than trying to identify one perfect pre-match window.
- Warm up properly: include gradual movement, controlled hitting and progressive overhead preparation before hard points.
- Use suitable footwear: choose footwear appropriate for the court surface and replace it when grip and support deteriorate.
- Build shoulder and forearm capacity: include controlled pulling, pressing, rotation and grip work away from the court.
- Train the lower limbs: strengthen the calves, knees, hips and trunk for repeated stopping and direction changes.
- Respect persistent symptoms: recurring elbow pain, swelling, instability, weakness or reduced movement deserves proper assessment.
- Manage volume: social matches still count as training load, especially when combined with the gym, running or another sport.
Revayo Prime
FORTIGEL® collagen peptides with Vitamin C. Made in the UK using a named, traceable ingredient.
Can collagen prevent padel elbow?
No evidence shows that collagen prevents elbow injuries in padel. Repeated load, racket technique, playing volume, strength and previous symptoms may all be relevant.
Does collagen repair tennis elbow or padel elbow?
A food supplement should not be presented as repairing an injury or treating tendinopathy. Persistent elbow pain should be assessed appropriately, particularly if it is affecting grip strength or daily activity.
Should I take collagen before playing padel?
There is no padel-specific evidence proving an ideal pre-match window. Follow the product directions and choose a routine you can maintain.
Does collagen replace protein after padel?
No. Collagen is an incomplete protein and should not replace complete dietary protein or a complete protein supplement used to meet essential amino-acid requirements.
Is collagen only relevant after age 30?
No. Age alone does not determine whether someone needs a supplement. Diet, goals, training load, previous injuries, budget and consistency are more relevant considerations.
Can I take collagen and creatine together?
For most healthy adults, collagen and creatine can be used within the same daily routine when taken according to their respective product directions. They are different ingredients and should not be treated as interchangeable.
Related reading: Collagen for BJJ · Collagen for wrestling · Collagen vs whey protein
Dahmen J et al. Incidence, prevalence and nature of injuries in padel: a systematic review. 2023.
Belmar-Arriagada H et al. Padel-related injuries: prevalence and characteristics in amateur players. 2025.
LTA Annual Report and Accounts: participation and court growth in Britain, 2025.
Great Britain Nutrition and Health Claims Register: authorised Vitamin C claim.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical, physiotherapy or dietetic advice. Seek appropriate assessment for significant or persistent pain, swelling, instability, weakness, loss of movement or suspected injury. Speak to a healthcare professional before using supplements if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescribed medicines or are under 18. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
FORTIGEL® is a registered trademark of GELITA AG.