Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Whether you’re just getting started or want to brush up on the basics, this guide will help you understand the key rules of the game.
The Court and Equipment
Pickleball is played on a court that’s similar to a badminton court, measuring 20 by 44 feet. The net is 36 inches high at the edges and 34 inches in the center. You’ll need a paddle, which is larger than a ping-pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racquet, and a plastic ball with holes, similar to a Wiffle ball.
Serving Rules
To start the game, a player must serve the ball diagonally across the court. The server must stand behind the baseline and serve the ball underhand. The ball must clear the net and land in the opponent’s service court. Players get only one serve attempt, unless the ball touches the net and lands in the correct court, which is called a “let,” and the serve is replayed.
The Double-Bounce Rule
One of the most unique rules in pickleball is the double-bounce rule. After the serve, both the serving team and the receiving team must let the ball bounce once on their side of the court before hitting it. Once both teams have allowed the ball to bounce, they can hit the ball in the air (volley) or after it bounces again.
The Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen)
Another important area of the court is the non-volley zone, commonly called “the kitchen.” This 7-foot area on both sides of the net prohibits players from volleying the ball while standing inside it. You can step into the kitchen to hit a ball after it bounces, but you must exit immediately after.
Scoring System
Pickleball uses a unique scoring system. Only the serving team can score points. Games are typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points. Points are scored when the opposing team commits a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds, failing to return the ball, or volleying in the kitchen.
Faults in Pickleball
Several actions are considered faults in pickleball, which lead to losing the point or the serve. Common faults include:
- Hitting the ball out of bounds.
- Not letting the ball bounce on the first two shots.
- Volleying in the non-volley zone (the kitchen).
- Failing to serve the ball into the correct service area.
Strategies for Beginners
While learning the basic rules is essential, beginners should also focus on some fundamental strategies to improve their game. Here are a few tips:
- Master the Serve: A strong, consistent serve can give you a great advantage.
- Control the Kitchen: Try to stay close to the kitchen line, as it gives you better control over the ball and angles.
- Communicate in Doubles: If you’re playing doubles, communication with your partner is key to covering the court effectively.
- Stay Patient: Rallies in pickleball can be longer than in other sports, so don’t rush your shots.
Pickleball is an easy sport to pick up, but mastering the rules and strategies will improve your gameplay quickly. By following the rules, focusing on serving, and controlling the kitchen, you’ll be ready to enjoy this fun and competitive game.