Are you hearing the word “pickleball” for the first time? If so, don’t worry – after reading this guide, you will be quite an expert in pickleball. Pickleball is a fun paddle sport that is growing in popularity worldwide. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, presenting a much more enjoyable experience for players.
Today, we will teach you everything you need to know about playing pickleball, from the basics of this game to how to improve your skills. So, get ready to pick up a paddle and have some fun – playing pickleball will be truly exciting!
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines badminton, tennis, and table tennis. You play pickleball on a court with the net like tennis and use pedals to hit a perforated polymer ball. Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, and it is an excellent game for all age groups. You might be surprised to know that pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and the majority of players like it because of its exciting nature. If you are looking for a competitive game or just a fun way to get some exercise, playing pickleball is a smart decision.
How is Playing Pickleball Different From Table Tennis and Badminton?
Pickleball is played with a perforated polymer ball, while table tennis is played with a soft sponge ball. Also, pickleball paddles are larger than table tennis paddles and have ridges on them (these ridges help you spin the ball more easily). The net in a pickleball game is lower than that in table tennis. As a result, it is easier to hit the ball over the net and into your opponent’s court in pickleball. While these two games might appear similar, they are inherently different but equally enjoyable. If you don’t want to be bound indoors with the table tennis set, start playing pickleball and get ready to love it.
Essentials of Playing Pickleball
To play pickleball, you will need the following:
- A pickleball paddle. Pickleball paddles are smaller and lighter than tennis racquets, with a perforated handle for better grip when your hands get sweaty.
- A pickleball. Pickleballs are similar to wiffle balls but with some differences. These balls are slightly larger than wiffle balls and have 26 holes instead of 8. On the outside, these balls look like small sponges.
- A pickleball net. Pickleball nets are lower than tennis nets and are typically about 20 feet long. If your tennis net is adjustable, that’s best. Otherwise, you can get a new net kit for playing pickleball.
- Pickleball shoes. Your comfort matters the most while playing pickleball, so don’t forget to get good-quality shoes. These shoes will help you maintain a good posture and play more confidently. Contoured pickleball shoes are essential for your learning and playing goals.
- Two or more people. You can play pickleball singles or doubles.
- A flat, level surface. You can start playing pickleball indoors or outdoors on various surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, or specially designed sports court surfaces.
Once this checklist of playing pickleball is complete, you’re all set to experience this sweat-breaking sport.
Steps to Play Pickleball
Pickleball is a fun and easy game to learn, and you can start it whenever feasible. By following these simple rules, you’ll be on your way to enjoying this great game in no time:
- Starting the game: Each player starts on their side of the net, opposite their partner. The server begins the game by serving the ball diagonally across the net into their opponent’s service box.
- Returning the serve: The receiver in pickleball must let the ball bounce once before hitting it back across the net. After the ball is hit, both players can move anywhere they want on their respective sides of the court.
- Hitting the ball: Players can hit the ball anywhere they want as long as it goes over the net and doesn’t touch any part of their own body or clothing. You can hit the ball with any part of the paddle, but you must hit it with an underhand stroke.
- Scoring points: You score a point when the opposing team fails to return the ball or hits the ball out of bounds. The first team to reach 11 points wins the game, but if the score reaches 10-10, then the next point will win the game.
- Rotating serve: After each point, the serving player rotates to the back of their team’s line, and the next player in line serves. This process continues until the end of the game.
These simple rules are enough to start playing pickleball and resolve your doubts. Sure, there’s more to playing pickleball, but these points will give you a good starting point. Once you understand how to handle the paddle and serve the pickleball, you’ll like how enjoyable this game is.
Is Pickleball Easy to Learn?
Pickleball is a trendy sport because it is easy to learn yet provides a good workout. Pickleball can be played either as singles or doubles. It’s a good sport for people of all ages because it’s not too strenuous and you can play at your own pace.
The basic rules in pickleball are simple: two or four players use paddles to hit a perforated ball over a net, and the first team to reach 11 points wins. However, there is more to the game than just hitting the ball back and forth. Players must also use strategy to place their shots and keep their opponents off balance. As with any sport, it takes some practice to master the basics of pickleball. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be hooked on this fast-paced game. Even if you have never played before, you can pick up the basics quickly.
Can Everyone Learn Pickleball?
Oh absolutely! Everyone can learn pickleball, though it may take a little more effort for some than others. The key is to find a learning method that works for you and then stick with it. For some people, that might mean taking lessons from a pickleball pro. Others might prefer to start by reading one of the many instructional books or watching online videos about pickleball techniques. Whichever route you choose, don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch on immediately. Pickleball is a relatively simple game, but it takes time and practice to become a pro at playing pickleball.
What are Some Challenges of Playing Pickleball?
Here are some of the potential challenges of playing pickleball that you may encounter:
- Lack of coordination: Many people play pickleball without too much coordination. This can be witnessed by how frequently people ‘sling’ their paddles at the ball instead of using a wrist snap to generate power. While playing, you will often see untrained players drop their paddles while running to the next shots.
- You may not have access to dedicated pickleball courts – While pickleball is played on a regular-sized badminton court, many players don’t have access to this type of court either. Before you learn what is pickleball and purchase its kit, make sure you have an easy-to-access court where you can practice.
Summing Up
Pickleball is a unique sport you can enjoy in your spare time. It’s an excellent way to get active, have a good time outdoors, and meet new people. Pickleball is a cross between tennis and badminton, and it’s played on a smaller court with a lower net. The game is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for family gatherings or social events. And because pickleball is relatively easy to learn, it’ll help you get introduced to the world of tennis or badminton. So, if you’re looking for a fun and adaptable sport to try out, pickleball is worth checking. Who knows, you might just develop a new favorite hobby!
Are you looking for another hobby to try outside? Start a paintball war!
