How to start playing pickleball: A beginner’s guide for women

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. It’s a social recreational activity designed for players of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds.

Pickleball stands out because of its fast-paced yet accessible nature. The game’s simple rules, coupled with its emphasis on strategy over physical power, make it an ideal choice for beginners.

Whether you’re looking for a recreational outlet or a competitive challenge, pickleball is a sport that truly has something for everyone!

What is pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into one unique game. Played on a court similar to a badminton court but with a lower net, the game uses a perforated plastic ball and paddles specifically designed for the sport.

The standard pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, making it smaller and less intimidating than a tennis court.

Originally invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, pickleball has evolved into a sport enjoyed by millions worldwide. While many players approach it as a casual, recreational activity, the game also has a competitive side, complete with tournaments and official rules laid out by USA Pickleball.

What makes pickleball so appealing is its simplicity. The rules are easy to understand, allowing new players to quickly learn the game. It’s a versatile sport that can be played by singles or doubles, indoors or outdoors.

How to get started: Essentials for playing pickleball

Equipment

Paddle: Lighter than tennis rackets but sturdier than ping-pong paddles, pickleball paddles are made from materials like wood, composite, or graphite. A good paddle should provide balance, control, and enough surface area to hit the ball effectively.

Ball: Pickleball uses a perforated plastic ball, often called a wiffle ball. Its holes make it less aerodynamic, which slows down gameplay and allows for better control. Wiffle balls come in different colors and densities, suitable for indoor or outdoor play.

Bag: To keep your gear organized and protected, investing in pickleball bags is a smart choice. These bags are designed specifically to carry paddles, balls, shoes, and accessories with ease, making them ideal for players on the go.

Pickleball Net and Court: The pickleball court is a scaled-down version of a tennis or badminton court. It’s 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with a net height of 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. Key areas of the court include the service courts and the non-volley zone (aka “kitchen”).

Finding a Place to Play

Another great thing about pickleball is its accessibility. Many existing tennis or badminton courts are now being converted into pickleball courts to meet growing demand. Additionally, community centers, gyms, and parks often have dedicated courts or host open play sessions for beginners and seasoned players alike.

If you’re just getting started, check local recreational facilities to see if they offer pickleball programs or court reservations. You can also book a court through apps or websites designed to help you find and join games in your area.

For top-notch equipment, consider checking out Velocity Paddle for paddles and other essentials to enhance your gameplay experience.

Basic pickleball rules you need to know

Serve in Pickleball

The serve in pickleball must be underhand, with the paddle contacting the ball below the waist. Players must serve diagonally across the court, aiming for the opponent’s service area.

The serve must clear the non-volley zone and land within the opposing service court to be valid. If a serve hits the net but still lands in the correct area, it’s a fault, and the serve moves to the other team.

Scoring

Pickleball games are typically played to 11 points, with a two-point margin required to win. Only the serving team can score points; when they lose a rally, the serve moves to their partner or, in singles, to the opponent. Doubles games rotate serve between players to keep the game engaging and fair.

Gameplay

Key rules include respecting the kitchen, where players cannot volley the ball. The ball must bounce once on each side during the first two hits after a serve. Afterward, players can choose to volley or let the ball bounce, adding strategic depth to the game.

Points are scored when the opponent makes an error, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.

Singles and Doubles Format

In singles, the court feels larger, requiring more movement and precision. Doubles games, on the other hand, emphasize teamwork and strategy, with players sharing court coverage. While singles offer a faster-paced, high-intensity experience, doubles games are often more social and accessible for beginners.

Tips for beginners

Start with Recreational or Open Play: Ease into the game by joining beginner-friendly sessions. These provide a relaxed environment to learn the rules and meet other new players.
Practice Hitting the Ball: Work on paddle positioning and consistent ball contact. Practicing against a wall or with a partner helps build confidence.
Learn the Kitchen Rules: Familiarize yourself with the non-volley zone to avoid common faults and penalties during games.
Play Against Similar Skill Levels: Competing against players with comparable experience allows for balanced and enjoyable matches.
Join Local Leagues or Groups: Find pickleball communities or clubs that host regular events, offering opportunities for learning, camaraderie, and skill-building.

FAQs about pickleball

What Makes Pickleball So Popular? Pickleball’s blend of accessibility, social interaction, and strategic gameplay appeals to players of all ages and skill levels. Its low-impact nature also makes it suitable for those seeking a fun yet gentle workout.
Is Pickleball Easy for Beginners? Yes! Pickleball’s simple rules and smaller court size make it easy to learn and enjoy, even for those with no prior experience in paddle sports.
How Do I Book a Court? Many community centers, gyms, and parks offer court reservations online or via apps. Some facilities also have open play times where no reservation is required.
Can It Be Played by Players of All Ages and Backgrounds? Absolutely! Pickleball is a welcoming sport that accommodates players from various age groups and skill levels, making it ideal for families, friends, and community events.

Benefits of playing pickleball

Physical Benefits

Pickleball offers low-impact cardio, improving reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and overall fitness. It’s an excellent way to stay active without putting undue stress on your joints.

Mental Benefits

Pickleball fosters social interaction, teamwork, and stress relief, and can be a great mental health boost. Those are just some of the many benefits of playing pickleball.

Pickleball for women: Why it’s the perfect sport

Pickleball is especially appealing to women because of its low-impact and social nature. If you’re considering introducing younger family members to the game, check out the different types of sports for teens for more inspiration.

Discover the joy of playing pickleball

Pickleball is a fun, accessible, and rewarding sport for women looking to try something new. With its simple rules, welcoming community, and numerous physical and mental benefits, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the fastest-growing sports today. So grab a paddle, find a local court, and jump into the game!