Pickleball is a fun sport for all ages. It is easy to learn and great for friends and family. In this article, you will learn how to play pickleball doubles. We will explain the rules, how to serve, score, and some simple strategies. Let’s start!
What is Pickleball Doubles?
Pickleball doubles means two players on each team. So, four players play at the same time. Each team works together to win points. The court is the same size as singles pickleball. But teamwork is very important in doubles.
Pickleball Court and Equipment
Before playing, know the court and equipment.
- Court size: 20 feet wide and 44 feet long.
- Net height: 36 inches high at the ends and 34 inches in the middle.
- Paddles: Use a paddle to hit the ball.
- Ball: Use a lightweight plastic ball with holes.
Basic Rules of Pickleball Doubles
Let’s learn the main rules of pickleball doubles. These rules help keep the game fair and fun.
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Serve | Serve underhand, below waist. Hit to opposite diagonal court. |
| Serve Attempts | Only one attempt allowed per serve. |
| Serve Position | Stand behind the baseline to serve. |
| Double Bounce Rule | Ball must bounce once on each side before volley. |
| Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) | No volleying in the 7-foot kitchen area near net. |
| Scoring | Only serving team can score points. |
| Out of Bounds | Ball outside court lines is out. |
How to Start the Game
At the start, only one player from the serving team serves. The serve starts from the right side of the court. The server hits the ball to the opposite side diagonal. The ball must clear the kitchen and land inside the service box.
The receiving team must let the serve bounce. Then, the serving team must also let the return bounce. After these two bounces, players can volley or hit the ball before it bounces.
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Serving Rules in Doubles
- The server must stand behind the baseline.
- The serve must be underhand and below the waist.
- The serve must go to the opposite diagonal service box.
- Only one serve attempt per turn.
- When the first server loses the serve, the partner serves next.
- If both players lose the serve, the other team serves.
Scoring in Pickleball Doubles
You score points only when your team is serving. If the receiving team wins the rally, they get the serve but no points. Games usually play to 11 points. You must win by 2 points.
When calling the score, say three numbers:
- Your team score
- The other team score
- Which server is serving (first or second)
For example, say “5-3-2” means your team has 5 points, the other team has 3, and the second server is serving.
Movement and Positioning in Doubles
Good movement is key in doubles. Players should cover their side of the court. One player covers the left side, the other the right. Stay close to the middle to cover more area.
When serving and receiving, players stand near the baseline. After the return, move forward to the net. The net area is best for volleys and quick shots.
The Kitchen Rule
The kitchen is a seven-foot area near the net. You cannot step into the kitchen to hit a volley. You may enter the kitchen to hit a ball that bounces there. This rule prevents quick smashes close to the net.
Simple Strategies for Doubles Pickleball
Here are some easy strategies to help your team play better.
- Communicate: Talk to your partner during the game.
- Attack the middle: Hit the ball between your opponents to confuse them.
- Stay close: Stand close to your partner to cover the court well.
- Use soft shots: Try dinking, which is a soft shot into the kitchen.
- Move quickly: Be ready to move forward and back fast.
How to Play a Volley
A volley is hitting the ball before it bounces. You must stay out of the kitchen to volley. Volleying helps keep pressure on the other team. Stay balanced and watch the ball closely when volleying.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some mistakes players often make in doubles:
- Stepping into the kitchen while volleying.
- Not letting the ball bounce after the serve.
- Serving from the wrong side.
- Hitting the ball out of court boundaries.
- Not communicating with your partner.
Practice Tips for Pickleball Doubles
To get better, practice these skills:
- Serving underhand and accurate.
- Returning the serve with control.
- Volleys near the net.
- Dinking softly into the kitchen.
- Moving quickly to cover your area.
- Talking with your partner during the game.
Why Play Pickleball Doubles?
Pickleball doubles is fun and social. You get to play with a partner. It is easier to cover the court together. Doubles games tend to be faster and more exciting. It is also good exercise for your body and mind.
Summary
Pickleball doubles is easy to learn with some practice. Remember these key points:
- Serve underhand and to the opposite diagonal.
- Let the ball bounce once on each side after serve.
- Do not step into the kitchen to volley.
- Only the serving team can score points.
- Communicate and move well with your partner.
- Use soft shots and attack the middle of the court.
Pickleball doubles is a great way to have fun and stay active. Grab a paddle, find a partner, and enjoy the game!
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Play Double Pickleball Rules?
In doubles pickleball, serve underhand diagonally, starting behind the baseline. Let the ball bounce once each side before volleying. Avoid stepping into the non-volley zone (“kitchen”) to volley. Only the serving team scores points. Each team member serves once per turn except the first server.
What Is The Golden Rule Of Pickleball?
The golden rule of pickleball: Let the ball bounce once on each side after the serve before volleying.
What Are The 5 Rules Of Pickleball?
1. Serve underhand below the waist into the opposite diagonal service court. 2. Let the ball bounce once on each side after the serve before volleying. 3. Avoid stepping into the kitchen (non-volley zone) to hit volleys. 4. Only score points while serving.
5. Serve from behind the baseline.
What Is A Nasty Nelson In Pickleball?
A Nasty Nelson in pickleball is a sneaky shot aimed at catching opponents off guard near the net. It involves quick, aggressive plays to disrupt their positioning. This tactic often forces errors, giving the attacking team an advantage during doubles play.