Welcome Asensio
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to stay active, pickleball is an excellent option. This sport has gained popularity in recent years, and for a good reason. Pickleball is easy to learn, and it provides an excellent workout while at the same time developing your hand-eye coordination, balance, and reflexes. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to play pickleball, from the rules and equipment to the techniques and strategies necessary to excel.
Introduction
Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played with a paddle and a lightweight ball on a court that is one-third the size of a tennis court, making it an excellent option for players who don’t have a lot of space. Pickleball is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it a popular choice among families, seniors, and athletes.
The sport was invented in 1965 by three dads who were looking for a way to keep their kids entertained during the summer vacation. The dads used some scrap plywood to create paddles and a perforated plastic ball, and the game of pickleball was born. The sport’s unusual name comes from one of the inventor’s dogs, who was named Pickles and would constantly chase after the ball.
Since its invention, pickleball has evolved into a popular sport that is played worldwide. In 2020, the Pickleball Association estimated that there were over 4 million players in the United States alone. The sport has even caught the attention of the Olympic committee, with hopes of becoming an official Olympic sport in 2028.
Now that you have a bit of background on the sport let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of how to play pickleball
The Court
The pickleball court is one-third the size of a tennis court and measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. The court is divided into two halves by a net that is positioned at a height of 36 inches at the center and 34 inches on the ends. The court also has a seven-foot non-volley zone on each side of the net, which is commonly referred to as the “kitchen.”
| Dimensions of court | 20 feet wide by 44 feet long |
| Net height | 36 inches at the center and 34 inches on the ends |
| Non-volley zone | Seven feet on each side of the net |
The Equipment
To play pickleball, you’ll need some basic equipment:
- A pickleball paddle
- A pickleball
- A net
- A court
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
The paddle is slightly larger than a ping pong paddle and is made of lightweight materials such as graphite, carbon fiber, or a composite material. The pickleball is similar to a wiffle ball but slightly heavier and is made of plastic.
The Serve
The serve is the start of each point in pickleball. The serving player must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball underhand, making contact with the ball below their waist. The ball must land in the diagonal service court on the opponent’s side of the court. If the serve lands outside of the court or hits the net, it’s called a “fault,” and the opposing team earns a point. If the serve lands in the correct area, play continues.
Scoring
The scoring in pickleball is straightforward. Games are played to 11 points, and the winning team must win by at least two points. Points are scored only by the serving team, and if the non-serving team wins a point, they become the serving team for the next point. The first team to score 11 points and have a two-point lead wins the game.
Gameplay
Each point in pickleball begins with a serve and continues until one team either fails to return the ball or hits the ball out of bounds. The non-volley zone, or “kitchen,” is reserved for volleys and cannot be entered by players unless the ball first bounces outside the zone or on the line.
Strategy
There are different strategies that players can use to gain an advantage in pickleball. Some players prefer to take the offensive, hitting hard shots and trying to force errors from their opponents. Others prefer a more defensive style, staying back and returning their opponents’ shots. A common strategy in pickleball is to “dink,” which involves hitting soft shots that barely clear the net, putting pressure on the other team to hit difficult returns.
How to Play Pickleball
Step 1: The Serve
Place the ball in your non-dominant hand and hold the paddle in your dominant hand. Stand behind the baseline and hit the ball underhand, making contact with the ball below your waist. The ball must land in the diagonal service court on the opponent’s side of the court. If the serve lands outside of the court or hits the net, it’s called a “fault,” and the opposing team earns a point. If the serve lands in the correct area, play continues.
Step 2: Returns
After the serve, the opposing team must return the ball before it bounces twice. Players can hit the ball with their paddle, but the ball cannot be hit with their hand or arm. The ball must also clear the net and land in play. A point is awarded to the serving team if the returning team hits the ball out of bounds, hits the ball into the net, or fails to hit the ball back over the net.
Step 3: Non-volley Zone
The non-volley zone, or “kitchen,” is a seven-foot area on each side of the net. Players cannot enter the non-volley zone to hit the ball unless the ball first bounces outside of the zone or on the line.
Step 4: Scoring
Points are only scored by the serving team, and if the non-serving team wins a point, they become the serving team for the next point. The first team to score 11 points and have a two-point lead wins the game.
Step 5: Strategy
As mentioned earlier, there are various strategies that players can use to gain an advantage in pickleball. Some players prefer to take the offensive, hitting hard shots and trying to force errors from their opponents. Others prefer a more defensive style, staying back and returning their opponents’ shots. A common strategy in pickleball is to “dink,” which involves hitting soft shots that barely clear the net, putting pressure on the other team to hit difficult returns.
FAQs
What is the origin of Pickleball?
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three dads who were looking for a way to keep their kids entertained during the summer vacation. The sport’s unusual name comes from one of the inventor’s dogs, who was named Pickles and would constantly chase after the ball.
What kind of paddle do I need for pickleball?
The paddle is slightly larger than a ping pong paddle and is made of lightweight materials such as graphite, carbon fiber, or a composite material.
What kind of ball do I need for pickleball?
The pickleball is similar to a wiffle ball but slightly heavier and is made of plastic.
What are the dimensions of a pickleball court?
The pickleball court is one-third the size of a tennis court and measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long.
How many players are on a pickleball team?
Pickleball can be played with two or four players. When playing doubles, each team has two players, and when playing singles, each team has one player.
Can I hit the ball with my hand in pickleball?
No, players cannot hit the ball with their hand or arm. The ball must be hit with the paddle.
Can I step into the non-volley zone after hitting the ball?
No, players cannot enter the non-volley zone to hit the ball unless the ball first bounces outside of the zone or on the line.
What is a fault in pickleball?
A fault is when a player makes an error during the serve, such as serving the ball out of bounds or hitting the net.
How long does a pickleball game last?
Games are played to 11 points, and the winning team must win by at least two points.
Can I hit the ball out of bounds to win the point?
No, the ball must land in bounds to win the point.
Is there a way to score points while not serving?
No, only the serving team can score points in pickleball.
Is pickleball suitable for all ages?
Yes, pickleball is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Can pickleball be played indoors?
Yes, pickleball can be played indoors or outdoors.
What are the basic rules of pickleball?
The basic rules of pickleball include serving underhand, hitting the ball back over the net, and staying out of the non-volley zone.
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide on how to play pickleball has been helpful. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that provides an excellent workout and opportunities to connect with others. Remember to follow the basic rules, stay out of the non-volley zone, and have fun!
Take Action Today
So why not give pickleball a try today? Grab a paddle, a ball, and a friend, and head down to your local court. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you pick up the game and how much fun it is.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Before participating in any physical activity, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s safe for you to do so.