Excited to play pickleball but don't live near any courts? You’re in luck — with a bit of creativity, a driveway, and some chalk, you can easily build your own pickleball courts.
The first step? Knowing the answer to "How big is a pickleball court?" Read on as we dive into the nitty-gritty of pickleball court dimensions and how you can bring the game right to your doorstep.
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How Big Is a Pickleball Court?
A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet in width and 44 feet in length, including lines. The net splits the court into two, hanging at 36 inches on the sidelines and slightly dipping to 34 inches in the middle.
These dimensions make pickleball accessible in various spaces, be it your backyard or a converted tennis court.
Building Your Own Pickleball Court: 4 Tips
Transforming your space into a pickleball court can be a fun weekend project! Beyond knowing what are the dimensions of a pickleball court, keep these bonus tips in mind:
Choose the right location: Look for a flat, smooth area in your backyard or driveway. Concrete, asphalt, or a similar hard surface works best.
Size matters: Remember the official dimensions: 20 feet by 44 feet. Use chalk or tape for temporary lines, or paint for a more permanent setup.
Safety first: Allow extra space around the court for movement — at least 10 feet is recommended.
Net setup: Invest in a portable net or set up a permanent one at the correct height (36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the middle).
Best Way to Adjust a Tennis Court to Play Pickleball
Transforming a tennis court into a pickleball court is surprisingly simple, and a fantastic way to enjoy both sports without needing extra space.
Here’s how to make the switch:
Net adjustments: Lower the tennis net to 34 inches at the center.
Court lines: Use temporary tape or chalk to mark the pickleball court within the tennis court.
Multiple courts: You can fit up to four pickleball courts on a single tennis court!
Respect the tennis lines: Be mindful not to permanently alter the tennis court.
Snag more tips on how to adjust a tennis court to play pickleball here.
Drawing a Pickleball Court: How To Make Your Mark
Drawing your court is the final step in bringing your pickleball dream to life. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you mark your court like a pro:
Outline the perimeter: Start by marking the outer boundaries of the court, which are 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. These are your sidelines and baselines.
Add the centerline: Draw a line dividing the court into two equal halves, each 22 feet long. This line runs from the baseline to the non-volley zone on each side and helps in positioning during singles play.
Don’t forget the kitchen: Mark the non-volley zone, 7 feet from the net on both sides.
Your Pickleball Court Awaits
Now that you know the answer to “How big is a pickleball court?” and how to set one up, you're all set to start your pickleball adventure! Whether you're drawing lines on your driveway, tweaking a tennis court, or building a court from scratch, the joy of pickleball is just a few steps away.
Embrace this exciting sport and remember, the court you create is not just a playing area, it's the backdrop for fun, fitness, and fantastic memories. So, grab your coach, get those paddles ready, and pickleball away.
