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About
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a court with a net that is similar to a tennis court but smaller, and the rules and equipment are also different from tennis. The game is usually played with two or four players, and the objective is to hit a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball, over the net and into the opponent's court. The ball can only be hit once on the bounce, and the serving team must serve underhand and diagonally to the opponent's court. The opposing team must return the ball before it bounces twice and then the rally continues until one team fails to return the ball, hits the ball out of bounds, or commits a fault. Pickleball is popular among people of all ages and skill levels because it is easy to learn, relatively low-impact, and can be played both indoors and outdoors. It is also a social game that encourages players to interact and make new friends while playing.
Difficulty
Beginner
Time
1-3 hours per session
Cost
$50–$300
Social
Small Group
Location
Indoor/Outdoor
Popularity
95/100
Why Try This Hobby?
Low-impact cardio
Social and community-based
Easy for beginners
Fast-growing sport
Getting Started
Master the Serve
Practice your serve to make it accurate and consistent. Aim to hit the ball low over the net and into the service court diagonally opposite you. Start with our How to Play Pickleball guide for an easy introduction.
Learn Positioning
Learn how to position yourself on the court effectively. Maintain a balanced stance, and anticipate your opponent's shots to be in the right position to return them. Make sure you are familiar with the Pickleball Rules like the non-volley zone (kitchen).
Practice Communication
If playing doubles, communicate with your partner to coordinate your shots and cover the court efficiently.
Use Soft Shots
Utilize soft shots like dinks and drop shots to place the ball strategically and force your opponents into difficult positions.
Focus on Placement
Focus on ball placement rather than hitting the ball with maximum power. Placing the ball well can give you an advantage during rallies.
Gear & Equipment
Essential
Pickleball Paddle
Look for a paddle that suits your playing style and skill level. Consider factors like weight, grip size, and material (graphite, composite, or wood). Popular brands include Selkirk, Paddletek, and Engage. Unsure what to buy? Check out our guide to the Best Pickleball Paddles.
Pickleballs
Get a set of outdoor or indoor pickleballs depending on where you'll be playing. Outdoor balls are durable and have larger holes, while indoor balls are quieter and have smaller holes.
Court Shoes
Invest in a pair of court shoes that provide stability, cushioning, and good traction on the court. Brands like ASICS, Adidas, and Nike offer pickleball-specific shoes.
Protective Eyewear
While not mandatory, wearing protective eyewear can help protect your eyes from stray balls and accidental hits.
Videos
The Beginner's Guide on How to Play Pickleball
15:20
Complete beginner's guide explaining the basics of what is pickleball and how to start playing.
A Comprehensive Guide to Pickleball for Beginners
18:45
Comprehensive introduction to pickleball for new players.
How to Play Pickleball: The Ultimate Guide on Rules
12:30
Ultimate guide covering all pickleball rules and gameplay.
Complete Guide To Playing Pickleball In 2024
22:15
Everything you need to know about playing pickleball.
Related Guides & Articles
how tos
Mastering the Dink Shot: Technique & Drills
Learn the fundamental dink shot technique and progressive drills to control the kitchen line and force opponent errors.
How to Play Pickleball (Beginner Guide)
Learn how to play pickleball with this step-by-step beginner guide. Understand the court, rules, and basic strategy in 5 minutes.
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