Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Its simplicity and fun nature make it a hit with players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're new to the game or just curious about how it's played, this guide will walk you through the basics of pickleball.
The Basics of Pickleball
1. Equipment
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Paddles: Pickleball paddles are smaller than tennis rackets but larger than ping-pong paddles. Modern paddles are made from materials like wood, composite, or graphite.
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Ball: The ball is a lightweight, perforated plastic ball similar to a wiffle ball.
- Court: A pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with a 7-foot non-volley zone on each side of the net, often referred to as "the kitchen."
2. Objective
The goal of pickleball is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court without them successfully returning it. Points are only scored by the serving team. Games are typically played to 11 points, and players must win by 2 points.
How the Game is Played
1. Starting the Game
Serve: The game begins with an underhand serve, where the paddle contacts the ball below the waist. The server must serve diagonally to the opponent’s service court. The serve must clear the net and avoid landing in the kitchen.2. The Double-Bounce Rule
After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it. Then, the serving team must also allow the ball to bounce once before playing it. This rule prevents aggressive net play right after the serve and encourages longer rallies.
3. Volleying and "The Kitchen"
Players can hit the ball in the air (volley) but not while standing in the kitchen. Entering the kitchen is only allowed if the ball bounces there first. This rule ensures fair play and keeps the game strategic.
4. Scoring Points
-Points are earned only by the serving team.
-The server continues serving until they fault (e.g., failing to clear the net or hitting out of bounds). In doubles, both players on a team get a chance to serve before the serve passes to the opposing team.
Pickleball Strategy
- Placement Over Power: Unlike some racquet sports, pickleball rewards precision over brute force. Aim for the corners or target your opponent’s weaker side.
- Master the Dink: A dink is a soft shot that lands just over the net into the opponent’s kitchen, forcing them to move forward and disrupting their rhythm.
- Stay Out of the Kitchen: Avoid stepping into the kitchen unless absolutely necessary. Instead, position yourself at the baseline or midcourt for better control.
Why Pickleball is So Popular
Pickleball is easy to learn, affordable to play, and offers a great workout. It's also incredibly social, making it a favorite among communities and families.
Ready to Start Playing?
Pickleball is not only fun but also highly accessible. Grab a paddle, find a local court, and give it a try! Looking for high-quality pickleball paddles and gear? Check out our collection at Racket Central to get started with the best equipment.
