Here’s How to Play Pickleball So You’re Prepared for Some Friendly Competition
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Pickleball is having a moment, and for good reason! This fast-paced, easy-to-learn sport is popping up everywhere—from neighborhood parks to pro-level tournaments. Whether you’re an avid athlete or just looking for a fun new outdoor game to play when summer starts, pickleball delivers an exciting mix of strategy, speed, and friendly competition. But what exactly is pickleball, and why is it getting so much attention right now?
This fun and easy game combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong for a unique activity all its own. If you’ve ever wondered how to play pickleball, the rules of the game, what you need to get started, or why your friends won’t stop talking about it, then you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down everything you need to know, from court dimensions and the history of the game to the best gear for your next match. So grab a paddle and get ready, because pickleball just might become your new favorite sport!
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is the ultimate combination of your favorite racket sports, all rolled into one dynamic game! Picture this: You’ll get all the speed and excitement of tennis, the sneaky net shots of badminton, and the strategic gameplay of ping pong. (Drew and Jonathan are pro ping pong players, by the way!) It all comes together on a court that’s slightly smaller than a traditional tennis court, where players take turns hitting a perforated plastic ball over a net using paddles. The game can be played in singles or doubles format and is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.
What to Wear to Play Pickleball
Having the right pickleball gear can make all the difference in your game. Comfortable, breathable athletic wear is always a great choice, and don’t forget about accessories like a pickleball bag to carry your paddles and balls. Proper footwear is key, too—pickleball shoes offer better grip and support for quick side-to-side movements, which can help prevent slips and injuries on the court. We included some recommendations below!
Can You Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court?
Absolutely! A lot of people use tennis courts for pickleball, especially when dedicated pickleball courts aren’t available. Since tennis courts are much larger, you’ll just need to adjust the playing area by marking off smaller boundaries with tape or chalk and setting up a portable net if needed. Some courts even have lines for both sports, making it easy to switch between pickleball and tennis.
Why Is It Called Pickleball?
There’s some debate about how pickleball got its name, but the origins of pickleball date back to the mid-1960s when it was invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum in Washington state. One story goes that the sport got its name from Pritchard’s dog, Pickles, who would chase after the balls during the game.
Another theory is that it comes from the term “pickle boat,” which refers to a crew of leftover rowers—kind of like how pickleball is a mix of different sports. Either way, the quirky name has stuck, and pickleball is only getting more popular.
What Are Pickleball Court Dimensions?
The dimensions of a pickleball court are typically 20 feet wide by 44 feet long for doubles play and 20 feet wide by 22 feet long for singles play. These dimensions give players enough space to move around the court safely and engage in fast-paced rallies, while still allowing for strategic placement of shots. The pickleball court is divided into specific zones, including the volley zone, non-volley zone (or “kitchen”), and service areas.
What Are the Pickleball Rules?
Like any good game, pickleball has its rules. It starts with a serve diagonally, and players must let the ball bounce once before volleying. Here’s a quick rundown of how to play pickleball and its basic rules:
- Serve: The serve must be made underhand and diagonally across the net to the opponent.
- Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, both the serving and receiving teams must let the ball bounce once on each side before hitting it.
- Non-Volley Zone Rule: Players are not allowed to volley (hit the ball before it bounces) while standing within the non-volley zone.
- Faults: A fault occurs when a player violates a rule, such as stepping on or over the baseline during the serve, hitting the ball out of bounds, or volleying in the non-volley zone. Faults result in a point for the opposing team.
- Scoring: Pickleball games are typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points. Points can only be scored by the serving team. If the serving team commits a fault, the serve rotates to the opposing team, and they gain the opportunity to score points.
- Serve Rotation: In doubles play, both members of the serving team get the chance to serve before the serve rotates to the opposing team. If the serving team wins the rally, they score a point and continue serving. If the receiving team wins the rally, they gain the opportunity to serve.
What Are Some of the Best Pickleball Paddles and Gear?
Choosing the right paddle and gear is crucial for pickleball success. Look for paddles with a comfortable grip and lightweight design, allowing for swift movements. It’s also a good idea to invest in high quality balls and appropriate footwear for better traction on the court (and added safety).
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