How to Play Pickleball: From Novice to Pro

If you want to start playing pickleball but don’t have a plan, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the game step by step, making it easy to learn even if you are a total beginner who is looking for a detailed explanation. We will start with the correct pickleball terms, explain your first serve, and cover everything else you need to start your first game. So grab your paddle, and let’s get started.

Step 1: Learn the 7 Main Rules of Pickleball

Pickleball has a few unique rules that make it different from other paddle sports, and understanding them is the key to affecting your gameplay. Here are the seven main rules every player should know:

1. The serve must be underhand – Players must serve underhand with the paddle below their waist and make contact with the ball before it bounces. The serve must also be hit diagonally across the court.

2. The double bounce rule – After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce before hitting it, and the serving team must also let it bounce once before returning. This rule prevents immediate volleys and encourages longer rallies.

3. The non-volley zone (the kitchen) rule – Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing inside the 7-foot non-volley zone, commonly called "the kitchen." This prevents players from smashing shots too close to the net.

4. Scoring is only for the serving team – A team can only score a point when serving. If the receiving team wins a rally, they gain the serve instead of a point.

5. Games are played to 11, 15, or 21 points – The standard game is played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points. Tournament games may be played to 15 or 21.

6. A fault ends a rally – A fault occurs when the ball is hit out of bounds, into the net, or a player violates a rule (like stepping into the kitchen on a volley). Faults cause a turnover of serve or a point for the opponent.

7. Double-player serving rotation – Both teammates get a chance to serve before the serve switches to the opposing team, except at the start of the game when only one player on the serving team serves before switching sides.

Step 2: Learn Pickleball Scoring

Pickleball scoring may seem complex at first glance, but understanding its basics is fundamental. Remember, in pickleball, points are scored only by the serving team. Each game is played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points.

The serving team continues to serve until they lose both serves and at this point, the opponent team gains the serve. The serving team scores a point when the receiving team faults, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.

Step 3: Remember the Pickleball Shot Types

Mastering different shot types in pickleball is essential if you want to become an intermediate or advanced player and participate in competitive matches. Each shot serves a unique purpose and can help you control the game's pace, keep your opponents off balance, and gain winning points. Here are the key shots you need to know:

• Drives – A fast, powerful shot hit with topspin or flat to force your opponent to make errors or set up an easier follow-up shot.

• Volleys – Hitting the ball out of the air before it bounces, often used near the net to maintain pressure and control the rally.

• Drop shots – A soft, controlled shot that lands just over the net, typically used to transition from the baseline to the kitchen line.

• Lobs – A high-arching shot that sends the ball deep into the opponent’s court, useful for resetting the point or pushing opponents away from the net.

• Dinks – A short, precise shot that stays low over the net and lands in the kitchen.

• Overheads – A strong, downward shot (similar to a smash in tennis) used to finish points when an opponent hits a high ball.

Step 4: Check the Common Mistakes

Every new pickleball player makes mistakes and goes through a learning curve. Watching beginner pickleball videos and learning common beginner missteps can help you improve faster and build a strong foundation for your game. Many new players struggle with positioning, shot selection, and mastering the basic rules, which can slow down their progress or even discourage them from continuing. 

Learning proper technique, movement, and game strategy will significantly improve your confidence and performance. Paying attention to common pickleball mistakes will not only make you a better player but also help you enjoy the game more.

Step 5: Understand the Pickleball Court Dimensions

A standard pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with a non-volley zone or "kitchen" that extends 7 feet from the net on both sides. The net is positioned at the center of the court, standing 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. Understanding court boundaries is especially important for new players as it helps them to visualize the playing area and avoid disputes during matches.

Step 6: Ensure You Have the Necessary Equipment

The first and most crucial piece of equipment is a pickleball paddle, which comes in various materials and sizes. Compare different paddle prices and choose a paddle that suits your skill level and feels comfortable.

• Custom and personalized pickleball paddles are a great choice for beginners as they allow you to choose specific materials and grip sizes. Custom paddles allow the printing of unique designs and colors.

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• Having the right type of pickleball balls is another important investment. Pickleball balls are specifically designed for the sport, featuring hole patterns and materials that affect their bounce and flight. Ensure your balls are in good condition, as worn-out or damaged balls can greatly impact the game's quality.

• Comfortable and supportive athletic shoes shouldn’t be overlooked. Pickleball involves lateral movements, so shoes with good grip and ankle support can prevent injuries and affect your performance on the court. 

Step 7: Find a Pickleball Court

Local community centers, parks, and sports clubs are typical places to find pickleball courts. Contact these facilities directly or check their websites for court schedules, reservation information, and any associated fees. Some cities have dedicated pickleball clubs or groups that organize regular games. Joining these communities can provide valuable information on court locations and availability.

You can also find dedicated websites where you can locate courts in your area. They often have big enough directories, enabling you to filter results based on location, court type, and availability.

Social media platforms can also be a valuable source of information. Joining pickleball-related groups or forums allows you to connect with local players who can offer insights into court locations and playing times or arrange friendly games.

Step 8: Follow Pickleball Etiquette

Following pickleball etiquette is the foundation for a positive and enjoyable gameplay.

• Always wait for a clear and appropriate time to enter the court, ensuring not to disrupt ongoing games. 

• When a game is in progress, it is customary to maintain a respectful distance and avoid unnecessary noise to prevent distractions.

• Promptly retrieve and return balls that have strayed onto your court for a smooth flow of play.

• Respect for the order of play is paramount, so you must wait for your turn and avoid unnecessary delays. 

• In the event of line calls or disputes, handle conflicts calmly and follow the rules established for fair play. Good sportsmanship includes acknowledging opponents' good shots and maintaining a positive attitude, contributing to a friendly and inclusive atmosphere on the pickleball court.

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Step 9: Win the Game

Winning the pickleball game requires a combination of skill, strategy, and mental focus. Firstly, master the basic techniques that we explained in this article.

After learning the basics and using your skills during a real game, focusing on the opponent's strengths and weaknesses is key to adjusting your gameplay. Observing their tendencies, exploiting weaknesses, and adapting strategies during matches can give you extra points.

Don’t forget that overall fitness and endurance play a role in sustaining peak performance throughout the game. Regular conditioning drills, agility exercises, and cardiovascular training contribute to overall physical preparedness that will help you win your next match, even if you are only a beginner player.