What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played on a court with a modified tennis net and uses a perforated plastic ball and paddle to hit the ball over the net.
The game can be played in singles or doubles, and the objective is to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent's court in a way that they cannot return it. The game is typically played to 11 points, and the winner must win by at least two points.
Pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors, and it is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Its popularity has been growing in recent years, with many communities and recreational centers adding pickleball courts and hosting tournaments.
How is pickleball played?
Pickleball is played on a court that is similar in size to a badminton court, but with a lower net and a few modifications. Here are the basic rules of how to play pickleball:
- The game can be played in singles or doubles.
- The server must stand behind the baseline and serve diagonally to the opponent's service court. The ball must land within the confines of the court on the opposite diagonal service court.
- The opponent must let the serve bounce once before returning it, and the server must let the return bounce once before hitting it back.
- After the first two shots, the ball can be volleyed in the air or played off the bounce.
- The ball must stay within the bounds of the court, including the lines, and cannot touch the net or the ground outside the court.
- The point is awarded when the opponent fails to return the ball or hits the ball out of bounds.
- The game is typically played to 11 points, and the winner must win by at least two points.
- If the score is tied at 10-10, the game continues until one player or team wins by two points.
- Players switch sides of the court after every odd-numbered point.
- A fault occurs if a player fails to serve the ball over the net or into the correct service court, hits the ball out of bounds, touches the net or the opponent's court, or makes any other infraction according to the rules.
What are the dimensions of a pickleball court?
The dimensions of a pickleball court are as follows:
- The court is rectangular in shape and measures 20 feet wide and 44 feet long.
- The court is divided into two equal halves by a net that is 36 inches high at the center and 34 inches high at the edges.
- There are no alleys in pickleball, so the court width is the same across the entire length of the court.
- The service area is located on each side of the court and measures 10 feet by 15 feet, with a line marking the front of the area.
- The non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen, is a 7-foot area on either side of the net where players cannot volley the ball.
- The baseline is located at the back of the court, and there is a 2-inch line that runs along the back of the court to mark it.
Overall, the dimensions of a pickleball court are smaller than those of a tennis court, making it a great sport for players of all ages and skill levels.
What kind of paddles are used in pickleball?
Pickleball paddles are typically made of lightweight materials such as graphite, composite, or wood. The materials used in the paddle can affect its weight, stiffness, and durability, as well as its overall performance on the court. Here are some common types of pickleball paddles:
- Graphite paddles: These paddles are lightweight and durable, with a high level of stiffness that can provide increased power and control. They are popular among advanced and competitive players.
- Composite paddles: Composite paddles are made of a blend of materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, and/or aluminum. They are durable and offer a good balance of power and control, making them popular among intermediate and advanced players.
- Wooden paddles: Wooden paddles are typically the least expensive option and are popular among beginner and recreational players. They are heavier than graphite and composite paddles, which can make them more difficult to maneuver, but they can still provide good control and touch.
- Polymer core paddles: Some paddles feature a polymer core, which can help absorb shock and provide a softer touch. These paddles are popular among players with arm or joint issues.
Pickleball paddles also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and grip styles, which can affect how they feel and perform on the court. Ultimately, the type of paddle a player chooses depends on their personal preferences and playing style.
How do I choose the right pickleball paddle for me?
Please see our post New Buyers Guide for Pickleball Paddles