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Are paddle sports your favorite way to re-energize and exercise? With pickleball, you can enjoy a fun, fast-paced game that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s easy to learn but harder to master, making it perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Let’s discover why this fun sport is a favorite pastime for many.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a smaller court than tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net. The game is known for its social aspect and quick, exciting rallies. It’s a less intensive sport than racquet sports like tennis but still provides a great workout.
Pickleball Equipment
Before you hit the court, it’s best to make sure you have the right gear so you’re comfortable and prepared. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Pickleball Paddles
Pickleball paddles are larger than ping-pong paddles but smaller than tennis rackets. They’re usually made of lightweight materials like graphite or composite. The size and weight can affect your game, so choose one that feels comfortable in your hand.
Pickleball Ball
The ball used in pickleball is unique. It’s a plastic ball with holes, similar to a Wiffle ball. Indoor and outdoor pickleball balls differ slightly, with outdoor balls having more holes that are also smaller. This helps them withstand any wind better.
Pickleball Net
A pickleball net is similar to a tennis net but a bit lower, standing 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. The net is crucial for gameplay, dividing the court and creating the challenge of getting the ball to your opponent’s side.
The Perfect Shoes for Pickleball
Wear court shoes with good lateral support and non-marking soles. These will help you move quickly and change direction without slipping. Pro tip: Look for shoes specifically designed for racquet sports, as they help with better performance on the pickleball court.
The Pickleball Court Explained
A pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court, measuring 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. It’s divided into sections by lines, each with a specific purpose:
- “Kitchen” or Non-Volley Zone: Unique 7-foot area on each side of the net
- Service Courts: Located on either side of the centerline (or net), behind the kitchen line
- Backcourt: Area between the kitchen line and baseline
Unlike tennis, serving is done underhand in pickleball. This levels the playing field and makes the game more about strategy than power. The smaller court size also means less running, making it easier on the joints and ideal for all ages!
Pickleball Rules for Beginners
Because pickleball requires good strategizing, there are a few basics to keep in mind before you step out on the court:
- Serve underhand and diagonally to the opponent’s service court.
- Both sides must let the ball bounce once before hitting it.
- After these two bounces, the ball can be volleyed or played off a bounce.
- You can’t volley (hit the ball without a bounce) while standing in the kitchen zone.
- You can hit volleys, ground strokes, and serves from the backcourt.
- If the serving team commits a fault, they lose their serve but don’t give up a point.
- Each side gets only one fault before losing the serve.
- Only the serving team can score points.
- Games typically last until 11 points, with a two-point lead from the side that wins.
Remember, a point is only scored if the team that’s serving wins a rally or if the receiving team commits a fault. Faults include hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net or volleying from the kitchen zone.
Game on at The Rams Head Inn
Looking to match this exciting and energetic game with tranquil settings? Reach out to The Rams Head Inn on Shelter Island. Our waterfront activities include space for pickleball, which is perfect for practicing your new skills while enjoying breathtaking views of Coecles Harbor. So grab a paddle, round up your friends and family, and get ready for some fun in the sun!
