Ok, buckle up cause "how to play pickleball" is going to be a long one! Pay attention to the ToC (Table of Contents) below, and start from your topic of preference!
We are going to take a macro to micro approach, going from where to play all the way down to tips you should know about the game.
Contents
0. "I'm too afraid to ask now, but what is Pickleball?"
Don't worry if you don't feel 100% about it yet! If you want a refresher, here's our guide about it. When you have gone through it, get back here, ok? Let's continue!
1. Where can I play pickleball.
Find a pickleball or badminton court to play a game. Yes, badminton works as well. Pickleball and badminton courts have the same size measurements, but a pickleball court will have the net lowered to the ground so it’s at a height of 34 inches (or 86 cm).
Pickleball and badminton courts have the same size measurements, but a pickleball court will have the net lowered to the ground so it’s at a height of 34 inches (or 86 cm).
Bear in mind that pickleball courts can be located outside or indoors.
2. Who should I play pickleball with.
Play with 2 people for singles or 4 people for doubles. Pickleball can be played with 2 people competing against each other, (singles play), or with 2 teams of 2 people (playing against each other). That is called doubles play. Both games use the same court, have the same number of faults before losing their serve, and are often played to 11, 15, or 21 points.
(Doubles is the most popular way to play pickleball, but don't let it stop you from playing singles as well)
3. What equipment do I need?
To begin playing pickleball, you will need a pickleball paddle and ball. Pickleball paddles are typically made of wood or composite materials, and they are available in a variety of sizes and weights. Pickleball balls are made of plastic with small holes, similar to wiffle balls. Pickleball equipment is available at most sporting goods stores and online.
4. How do I score?
Pickleball is an 11-point game that must be won by at least two points. The team that wins the rally receives a point. If the serving team wins the rally, they get a point and the opportunity to serve again. If the receiving team wins the rally, they get a point and the opportunity to serve.
5. Serving:
One player from each team begins on the right side of the court, while the other begins on the left side. The right-side player serves the ball diagonally across the court to the left-side opponent. The ball must be hit with the paddle below the waist and served underhanded.
6. Playing the Ball:
The object of the game is to hit the ball back and forth over the net without making mistakes. The ball can be hit with the paddle or with an open hand, but must be hit below the waist. The ball can be hit with a variety of strokes, including the forehand, backhand, and overhead.
7. Volley:
A volley is a shot taken before the ball has landed on the court. Volleys are permitted only in the non-volley zone and must be struck with the paddle. Volleys are not permitted in the kitchen, which is the area within 7 feet of the net on each side.
8. Strategy:
Pickleball is a fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination. A good strategy is to keep the ball in play as long as possible and try to force your opponents to make mistakes. It's also important to vary your shots and keep your opponents guessing.
9. Conclusion:
Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that is easy to learn and can be played by people of all ages.
With a basic understanding of the equipment, court setup, scoring, serving, and playing the ball, you'll be well on your way to becoming a pickleball pro.
Also, if you want to start right now, be sure to check out us on teachme.to/pickleball. You will find the best pros near you, with the best prices, and with the most frictionless process out there.
You will go from browsing to a lesson scheduled in less than three minutes. So, really, give it a whirl on teachme.to/pickleball and start today. You have nothing to lose, and lots of fun to win!