How to Play Pickleball

Pickleball is a fun and easy-to-learn paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It can be played as singles (one player per side) or doubles (two players per side).

The Basics

The objective is to hit the ball over the net and win points by forcing your opponents to make an error.

Players use solid paddles and a lightweight plastic ball with holes.

The game is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court.

Serving

The serve must be hit underhand and below waist level.
The server stands behind the baseline and serves diagonally into the opponent’s service court.
Only the serving team can score points.

The Double Bounce Rule

After the serve:

The receiving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it.
The serving team must also let the return bounce once before playing it.
After these two bounces, players may volley (hit the ball before it bounces) or play it after a bounce.

The Non-Volley Zone (“Kitchen”)

The area within 7 feet of the net on each side is called the kitchen.
Players cannot volley the ball while standing in the kitchen.
Players may enter the kitchen to play a ball that has bounced there.

Scoring

Games are usually played to 11 points, with a team needing to win by at least 2 points.
Points are scored only by the serving team.
In doubles, both players on a team serve before the serve passes to the opposing team, except at the start of the game.

Why People Love Pickleball

Pickleball is social, inclusive, and suitable for all ages and abilities. It provides great exercise, encourages friendly competition, and is a fantastic way to meet new people and be part of a community.

Whether you’re playing for fun, fitness, or competition, pickleball is a sport that everyone can enjoy.