How do you play pickleball?

Are you in search of an enjoyable, social, and easy-to-learn sport? Pickleball might just be what's needed! Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing paddle sports today, combining elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis into one fast-paced yet simple game suited for people of all ages and ability levels to join. But How do you play pickleball?

The Court and Equipment

Pickleball is played on an 8x20 badminton court measuring 44 feet long by 20 wide with an 18-inch net height; slightly lower than a tennis court net height which measures 34 inches on either side and 36 inches center. Key zones on this court include; 

Baseline: The rear line of play.

Sidelines: Lines running down either side of a court on either end

Centerline: Divides court into halves for left and right service courts

Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen): An area 7 feet on both sides from the net that restricts players from engaging in any volleying action while standing within it. Players cannot hit balls into the air from within this kitchen zone.

Pickleball paddles are small and light and the ball itself resembles a whiffle ball in that its holes serve to slow its momentum compared to tennis balls; you'll find all of your pickleball equipment needs right here at Gatorstrike - from high-quality paddles like our precision striker pickleball paddle or complete pickleball sets!

Game Play Basics

Pickleball requires strategy and finesse - here is an outline of its essential gameplay rules that you should know:

Serving: When performing the serve underhand, the server strikes diagonally crosscourt after it bounces once. Both serve and returns of serve must first bounce once before being volleyed - this rule is known as the double bounce rule.

The Rally: Once the serve has been returned and both teams have allowed it to bounce once, players may volley (hit the ball into the air) or continue with groundstrokes until one team commits an error such as hitting out of bounds, double bouncing on their side or volleying outside their non-volley zone - at which time play ceases until a fault occurs by one side or player.

Scoring: Pickleball games are played to 11 points with one team having to lead by at least two points to win; otherwise it continues until one side leads by two.

Essential Pickleball Techniques

Mastering some essential techniques will bring your pickleball game to the next level:

Grip: There are two primary grip styles - two-handed and single-handed holding styles. Beginners usually find two-handed gripping more comfortable and manageable than single-handed styles of holding onto your gun.

Footwork: Proper footwork is key to effective positioning and quick movement on the court. Take light steps with small shuffling movements to remain light-footed when reacting to the ball.

Forehand and Backhand Strokes in Pickleball: These are two fundamental strokes used for pickleball play. A forehand swing uses your dominant hand while backhand strokes may involve one- or two-handed gripping of the paddle.

Final Thoughts

Pickleball is an incredible sport that provides an accessible way for individuals of all ages and fitness levels to stay active, offering simple rules, exhilarating gameplay, and an ever-expanding community - and is sure to become your new pastime! 

So grab yourself a paddle (check out Gatorstrike for their selection of carbon pickleball paddles and accessories!), find your local court, and experience all that pickleball has to offer!