📐 Pickleball Court Layout 

Before you hit the court, it helps to understand the layout. Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• Court Size: 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (same for singles and doubles) 

• Net Height: 36 inches at the sidelines, 34 inches in the center 

• Baseline: The back boundary of the court 

• Sideline: The side boundary 

• Non-Volley Zone (NVZ): Also called “the kitchen,” this 7-foot zone on either side of the net prohibits volleying 

• Service Areas: Each side has left and right service boxes, separated by a centerline 

🎯 How to Play Pickleball: Basic Rules 

Starting is simple, but mastering the strategy can take time. Here’s how a basic game flows: 

🏁 Serving Rules 

• The serve must be made underhand, from behind the baseline 

• It must go diagonally across the court into the opposite service area 

• Only one serve attempt is allowed (except for a let serve, which is replayed) 

⛔ The Double Bounce Rule 

• After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce once 

• The serving team must also let the return bounce before hitting it 

• Only after this can players start volleying 

🍳 The Kitchen Rule 

• Players can’t volley (hit the ball out of the air) while standing in the NVZ 

• You can enter the kitchen to hit a ball that has bounced 

🧮 Scoring 

• Only the serving team can score 

• Games are typically played to 11 points (must win by 2) 

• Points are scored when the opposing team faults (e.g., misses, hits out, steps into the NVZ on a volley) 

🧠 Common Pickleball Terms to Know 

Understanding the language of the game helps you learn faster and communicate better on the court. Here are key pickleball terms every beginner should know: 

• Dink: A soft, controlled shot that lands in the opponent’s kitchen 

• Volley: Hitting the ball out of the air before it bounces 

• Groundstroke: Hitting the ball after it bounces 

• Side Out: When the serving team loses the rally and the other team gets the serve 

• Erne: A surprise volley hit near the net by jumping around the kitchen 

• Poach: Intercepting a shot that’s headed toward your partner 

• Stacking: A doubles strategy where players position themselves to favor their dominant side 

💡 Beginner Tips for Success 

Ready to hit the court? These beginner tips will set you up for success: 

• Prioritize Control Over Power: A well-placed dink or soft shot is often more effective than a hard smash. 

• Master the Serve: Keep it low, deep, and consistent. It doesn’t need to be fast. 

• Avoid the Kitchen (Unless You Have To): Remember, no volleying in the NVZ! 

• Communicate with Your Partner: Talk about who’s taking which shots. 

• Practice the Double Bounce: Get used to letting the ball bounce early in the rally. 

• Watch and Learn: You’ll pick up strategy quickly by observing experienced players. 

🥒 Why Is It Called “Pickleball”? 

Believe it or not, the name has nothing to do with actual pickles. According to one version of the origin story, it was named after the founders’ dog, Pickles, who loved chasing the ball. Another explanation is that the name came from the term “pickle boat” in rowing, where leftover rowers are thrown together—much like this sport’s combination of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. 

🏅 Best Pickleball Gear for Beginners 

To get started, you don’t need fancy equipment—but quality gear can improve your game and comfort. Here are some beginner favorites:  

🎾 Franklin Sports X-40 Outdoor Pickleballs 

If you’re looking for tournament-quality balls trusted by top players and amateurs alike, the Franklin X-40s are your go-to. As the official ball of the US Open Pickleball Championships and USA Pickleball, they’re known for their true flight, excellent visibility, and long-lasting durability. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Endorsed by major tournaments 

• Consistent bounce and flight 

• Overwhelmingly popular—tens of thousands sold monthly 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

🏓 JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddle Set 

Want to dive into pickleball with gear that’s beginner-friendly but plays like the pros? The JOOLA Essentials Set includes two USAPA-approved paddles and balls, featuring technology you’d usually find in higher-end gear—making it perfect for new and intermediate players. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Includes everything you need to get started 

• USAPA-approved with premium paddle design 

• Highly rated (4.7/5 stars) by thousands of players 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

 🥇 GARYE Pickleball Paddles Set 

Great gear doesn’t have to break the bank. The GARYE Pickleball Set includes two carbon fiber paddles, balls, and a carrying case—making it an unbeatable value for both casual and competitive players looking for balanced performance and comfort. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Carbon fiber paddles with great grip 

• Balanced power and control 

• Perfect for players of all levels 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

🌟 MTEN Pickleball Paddles Set 

Consistently rated as an “overall top pick,” the MTEN Set comes with USAPA-approved fiberglass paddles, balls, and a carry bag. Players love its quality construction, ergonomic grips, and universal appeal for all skill levels. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Fiberglass paddles offer great responsiveness 

• Ergonomic handles and lightweight feel 

• High user ratings (often 4.8/5 stars) 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

👟 Skechers Women’s Viper Court Pro Pickleball Shoes 

Designed specifically for pickleball, the Skechers Viper Court Pro shoes offer serious support, breathability, and comfort—making them a standout choice for women who want to move confidently and comfortably on the court. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Arch Fit insole for added support 

• Breathable mesh upper with great traction 

• Top-rated performance shoe for women (4.7/5 stars) 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

👟 K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoes 

Comfort meets court-readiness in the K-Swiss Express Light shoes. Designed for agility, breathability, and long-lasting wear, these shoes are popular among beginners and seasoned players alike. 

🎁 What makes it great: 

• Lightweight and supportive for fast footwork 

• Durable build, designed for daily play 

• Solid choice for men new to pickleball 
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

🎯 Pickleball Tutor Mini Ball Machine

The Pickleball Tutor Mini is a compact, portable ball machine designed to help players of all skill levels practice shots, improve consistency, and build muscle memory. With adjustable speeds and oscillation, it’s a favorite among beginners and seasoned players alike.

🎁 What makes it great:

• Shoots balls up to 50 mph with adjustable arc and speed

• Random oscillation to simulate real-game conditions

• Lightweight and portable—perfect for solo training

• Highly rated (4.6/5 stars)
  👉 Buy now on Amazon

 🏓 Boulder Portable Badminton & Pickleball Net System 

This foldable and extendable net system by Boulder is perfect for pickleball players on the go. Lightweight, durable, and easy to set up in under five minutes, it’s ideal for driveways, backyards, or temporary courts at the park. Great for casual games, practice, or introducing friends and family to the sport.

🎁 What makes it great:

• Adjustable height for pickleball, badminton, and kids’ tennis

• Sets up in minutes—no tools required

• Compact, foldable frame with carry case for easy transport

• Highly rated for portability and ease of use (4.7/5 stars)
  👉 Buy now on Amazon 

✅ Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Pickleball 

Pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a fun, social, and accessible way to stay active and connected. Whether you’re returning to fitness or just looking for something new, it’s easy to learn, exciting to play, and full of friendly competition.

What really makes pickleball special is the community. From local parks to recreation centers, players of all ages and skill levels come together for laughs, exercise, and lasting friendships.

So if you’re searching for a beginner-friendly sport that offers fitness, fun, and fellowship, grab a paddle and hit the court. You might just discover your new favorite way to move and connect.

Ready to play? Pickleball is waiting.