How to Play Pickleball: The Beginner’s Guide
You may have come across this sport with a peculiar name and wondered, "Is it a sport or a tasty snack?" Well, welcome to the most captivating game in the world that has no connection to pickles! It's easy to learn, endlessly fun, and comes with a side of giggles (and maybe a touch of competitiveness). Here’s everything you need to know to get started and not accidentally hit someone in the head.
What the Dill Is Pickleball?
Pickleball can be likened to a scenario where tennis, badminton, and ping-pong all matched with each other and enjoyed a great time together. It’s played on a court about a quarter of the size of a tennis court, which means less running and more chances to show off your paddle skills (or lack thereof).
The objective? To strike a plastic ball with holes across the net and onto your adversary's side of the court without them being able to send it back. Simple, isn't it? However, here's a spoiler: it's more challenging than it appears.
Gear Up, Rookie
To play pickleball, you’ll need:
A Paddle – Not a tennis racket. Not a ping-pong paddle. A pickleball paddle. It’s flat, lightweight, and surprisingly good at making you feel like a pro.
Pickleballs – They’re light, perforated, and deceptively bouncy. Don’t let their harmless look fool you—these little spheres can be sneaky.
Comfortable Shoes – Running shoes are great, but court shoes will make you feel legit (and reduce your chances of a graceful tumble).
A Sense of Humor – Optional, but highly recommended.
Simplified Rules
Let's make it easy:
Serve Underhand – Pickleball isn’t about power; it’s about finesse. Serve underhand from behind the baseline, aiming diagonally.
Double Bounce Rule – The ball must bounce once on each side before anyone can volley. This means you can't smash it at your friend right after the serve.
Stay Out of the Kitchen – The “kitchen” is the 2 metre area near the net where volleys are not allowed. Step in only if the ball bounces there or prepare to be scolded by your fellow players.
Game to 11 (or 15 or 21) – Games are typically played to 11 points, but only the serving team can score. And yes, you must win by two points.
Tips for Not Looking Like a Total Noob
Grip it and Rip it (but gently). A soft touch beats wild swings.
Master the Dink. This is a gentle shot that lands just over the net, frustrating your opponent to no end.
Communicate if You’re Playing Doubles. Calling “Mine!” is a lot better than both of you staring at the ball as it bounces on your side.
Don’t Fear the Net. Be brave, but not reckless. Nobody likes the person who smashes every ball into the net.
What Makes Pickleball So Fun?
Besides being easy to pick up (pun intended), pickleball has a built-in community vibe. Everyone is there to have fun, whether they’re beginners or seasoned players. Plus, it’s a sport where “smack talk” and “snack talk” often go hand in hand—because post-game snacks are just as important as winning.
Ready to Play?
All you need now is a paddle, a partner, and an open court. (Pro tip: many courts are free, but arriving early guarantees you’ll avoid the pickleball rush hour.)
And if you lose your first game? Don’t worry—you’ll still look cool saying, “Good game!” as you plot your revenge in the next round. Pickleball is about learning, laughing, and maybe, just maybe, becoming the king or queen of the court.
Now go forth and dink with confidence!
Check out your Pickleball gear here.
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