Pickleball is a fun sport for all ages. It is easy to learn and play. You can play it inside or outside. Many people enjoy it because it is simple and fast. This guide will help you understand the basic rules and how to play pickleball.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a game like tennis and badminton. It uses a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The court is smaller than a tennis court. You can play singles (one player on each side) or doubles (two players on each side). The goal is to hit the ball over the net and score points.
Pickleball Court Layout
The court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. It has a net in the middle. The net is 36 inches high at the sides and 34 inches high in the center.
There is a special area near the net called the non-volley zone. It is also called the “kitchen”. This zone is 7 feet from the net on each side. You cannot hit the ball in the air while standing in the kitchen.
| Area | Size | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Full Court | 20 ft x 44 ft | The entire playing area |
| Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) | 7 ft from net on each side | Area where volleying is not allowed |
| Service Boxes | Located behind the kitchen on each side | Where the serve must land |
How to Serve in Pickleball
The serve starts the game and each point. You must serve underhand. Hold the paddle below your waist and swing it gently. You serve from behind the baseline.
The ball must go diagonally to the opposite service box. The ball must bounce once before the receiver hits it back.
If the serve goes into the net or outside the service box, it is a fault. The other team gets the serve.
The Two-Bounce Rule
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can hit it in the air (volley). This means:
- The ball bounces on the receiver’s side after the serve.
- The ball bounces on the server’s side after the return.
After these two bounces, both teams can hit the ball in the air or let it bounce.
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The Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) Rules
The kitchen is the 7-foot area near the net. You cannot hit the ball in the air while standing in this zone. You can only hit the ball here if it bounces first.
This rule prevents players from standing close to the net and smashing the ball without a fair chance for the opponent.
How to Score in Pickleball
Points can only be scored by the serving team. If your team wins the rally, you get one point and keep serving.
If the receiving team wins the rally, they get the serve, but no point.
The game usually goes to 11 points. You must win by at least 2 points.
| Condition | Result |
|---|---|
| Serving team wins rally | Scores a point and serves again |
| Receiving team wins rally | Gets the serve, but no point |
Basic Pickleball Rules Summary
- Serve underhand, diagonally to opposite service box.
- The ball must bounce once on each side after serve.
- No volleying in the kitchen (non-volley zone).
- You can only score points when serving.
- The game goes to 11 points, win by 2.
Pickleball Doubles and Singles
You can play pickleball as singles or doubles. In singles, one player plays against one player. In doubles, two players are on each team.
The rules are the same for both. But in doubles, players take turns serving. This means each partner serves before the serve goes to the other team.
Tips to Play Better Pickleball
Here are some simple tips to help you play well:
- Hit the ball low and soft. This makes it hard to return.
- Stay near the middle of your side. This helps you cover more court.
- Practice a soft shot called a “dink” near the net. It helps control the ball.
- Move quickly and be ready for the ball.
- Watch your opponent’s moves to guess their shots.
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How a Rally Works
A rally is the time when players hit the ball back and forth. It starts with a serve. Then the ball bounces once on each side. After that, players can volley or let it bounce.
The rally ends when the ball goes out of bounds, hits the net, or a player fails to return it. The winning team scores a point if they are serving.
What You Need to Play Pickleball
To start playing pickleball, you need some basic equipment:
- A pickleball paddle. It is smaller than a tennis racquet.
- A pickleball. It is a plastic ball with holes.
- A court with a net. Many parks have pickleball courts.
- Comfortable shoes and clothes.
Why Pickleball Is Great
Pickleball is easy to learn and fun. It does not need too much running. It is good for your health. You can play it with friends or family. It helps you stay active and meet new people.
Summary
Pickleball is a simple and fun sport. You serve underhand and hit the ball over the net. The two-bounce rule keeps the game fair. You cannot volley in the kitchen. You only score points when serving. The game usually ends at 11 points. Try to hit the ball low and soft. Stay near the middle of your court. Use soft shots near the net to control the game. Pickleball is a great way to have fun and exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Basic Rule To Start A Pickleball Game?
You serve underhand diagonally to the opposite service box, and the ball must bounce first.
How Does The Two-bounce Rule Work In Pickleball?
The ball must bounce once on each side before players can volley.
Where Is The Non-volley Zone In Pickleball?
The non-volley zone, called the kitchen, is near the net where volleying is not allowed.
How Do You Score Points In Pickleball?
Points are scored only by the serving team when they win a rally.