Pickleball has gained popularity over the years due to the sport’s simplicity, low impact, and fun nature. It’s a game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. In this article, we’ll go over the rules and basics of Pickleball, the court dimensions, equipment needed, and how to keep score.
Basic Rules of Pickleball
This racket sport is played on a court with a net in the middle. The game can be played as singles or doubles, with each player or team taking turns to serve and return the ball. The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court without them being able to return it.
The Serve
The serve is made underhand and must be hit diagonally across the court. The serve must clear the net and land in the opponent’s service court. If the serve hits the net and lands in the service court, it’s considered a “let” and the server gets another chance to serve. If the serve goes out of bounds, it’s a fault and the opponent gets a point.
Once the serve is made, the game continues with players hitting the ball back and forth until one team faults. A fault occurs when a player hits the ball out of bounds, into the net, or fails to clear the net. The opponent gets a point if their opponent faults.
Court Dimensions
The court dimensions for Pickleball are 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. The court is divided into two halves by a net, which is hung at a height of 36 inches at the ends and 34 inches in the middle. The court is also marked with lines to define the different zones.
The service area is the box on each side of the net that extends 7 feet back from the net and 20 feet wide. The non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen, is the area that extends 7 feet on each side of the net. Players are not allowed to hit the ball while standing in the kitchen unless the ball bounces first.
Equipment
To play Pickleball, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. The most important equipment is the paddle, which is similar to a ping pong paddle but larger. Paddles are typically made of wood, composite materials, or graphite. Players also need a Pickleball, which is a plastic ball with holes in it. The ball is slightly larger than a tennis ball but lighter.
Scoring
Pickleball is played to 11 points, and a team must win by two points. Points are only scored by the serving team. When the serving team wins a rally, they get a point and the right to serve again. If the receiving team wins the rally, they get the serve.
Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that is easy to learn and suitable for players of all skill levels. With a few pieces of equipment, a Pickleball court, and an understanding of the basic rules, you’ll be able to enjoy the basics of pickleball with your friends and family. Whether you’re playing for fun or competitively, Pickleball is a great way to stay active and have fun.
