How to Play Pickleball: Tips for Beginners

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that's easy to learn and a lot of fun to play. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, it’s a great game for all ages and skill levels. If you’re new to pickleball, here are some tips to help you get started and improve your game.

Basic Rules and Objective

1. Court Layout:

   - Court Size: A pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, divided into two halves by a net that’s 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center.

   - The Kitchen: The non-volley zone, commonly known as "the kitchen," is a 7-foot area on both sides of the net. Players are not allowed to volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing in this zone.

2. Scoring:

   - Points and Games: Pickleball is typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by 2 points. Only the serving team can score points.

   - Serving: The serve must be made underhand, with the paddle below the waist, and the ball must be hit diagonally across the court into the opponent’s service area. The serve must clear the net and not land in the kitchen.

3. Game Play:

   - Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side of the net before players can start volleying (hitting the ball in the air without letting it bounce).

   - Rallies: Players continue to hit the ball back and forth until one side makes a fault (e.g., hitting the ball out of bounds, not clearing the net, or volleying in the kitchen).

Tips for Beginners

1. Master the Basics:

   - Start with the Serve: Practice serving underhand with control rather than power. Aim to get the ball over the net and into the correct service box. Consistency is key.

   - Focus on Placement: Rather than trying to hit the ball hard, work on placing your shots strategically, such as aiming for your opponent’s weaker side or hitting the ball deep to keep them at the baseline.

2. Get Comfortable with the Non-Volley Zone:

   - Respect the Kitchen: Understand the rules of the non-volley zone and practice staying out of it when volleying. It’s tempting to step in, but doing so can result in a fault.

   - Dinking: A dink is a soft shot that lands just over the net in the opponent’s kitchen. Practice this shot to control the pace of the game and force your opponents to move.

3. Develop Your Strokes:

   - Forehand and Backhand: Focus on developing a strong, consistent forehand and backhand. Start with short swings and gradually add more power as you gain confidence.

   - Volleying: Work on your volleying skills, making sure you can control the ball and place it effectively when it comes to you in the air.

4. Work on Footwork and Positioning:

   - Stay Ready: Always be on the balls of your feet, ready to move in any direction. Good footwork is essential for getting to the ball quickly and maintaining balance.

   - Positioning: In doubles, stay side by side with your partner rather than one behind the other. This positioning covers the court more effectively and reduces the chances of leaving gaps.

5. Understand the Strategy:

   - Patience: Pickleball is a game of strategy, not just power. Be patient, wait for the right opportunity to attack, and don’t rush your shots.

   - Communication: If you’re playing doubles, communicate with your partner. Call shots, let each other know if you’re taking a shot, and stay coordinated.

6. Practice Regularly:

   - Drills: Spend time practicing specific skills like serving, dinking, volleying, and footwork. Repetition will help you improve faster.

   - Play with Others: The best way to improve is to play regularly with different people. This helps you get used to various playing styles and strategies.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

1. Hitting Too Hard:

   - Control Over Power: Beginners often try to hit the ball too hard, leading to errors. Focus on control and placement rather than just power.

   

2. Not Moving to the Net:

   - Approach the Net: Many beginners stay too close to the baseline. Moving up to the net after the double bounce gives you better control and puts pressure on your opponents.

3. Failing to Communicate in Doubles:

   - Teamwork: In doubles, it’s crucial to communicate with your partner. Decide in advance who will take shots down the middle and keep talking throughout the game.

4. Standing in the Non-Volley Zone:

   - Mind the Kitchen: Be mindful of your position on the court, especially near the non-volley zone. Remember, you can’t volley the ball while in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Pickleball is a fun and social sport that’s easy to pick up but can take time to master. As a beginner, focus on learning the basic rules, practicing your skills, and enjoying the game. With time and practice, your confidence and abilities will grow, and you’ll find yourself getting better with each match. So, grab a paddle, hit the court, and have fun playing pickleball!