pickleball rules UK for beginners

Try the sport everyone is talking about! Pickleball is now the UK’s fastest growing sports and we know why! Pickleball is a fun game that mixes tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It's popular because it's simple, inclusive, and fast-paced. In this blog, we'll dive into what pickleball is and provide a beginner's guide on how to play this addictive game. 

what is pickleball?

Pickleball is played on a rectangular court divided by a net, much like tennis. Enthusiasts can play the game both indoors and outdoors, which makes it accessible to a wide range of people. Pickleball is different because it uses a wiffle ball and solid paddles, making it fun and exciting to play.

how to play pickleball

Pickleball court dimensions: Pickleball courts look like small tennis courts. But it does have its own rules to follow! Measuring 20 feet by 44 feet for doubles and 20 feet by 22 feet for singles. The net stands at a height of 36 inches on the sidelines and 34 inches at the centre.

Equipment: To begin, you only need a pickleball paddle, a wiffle ball, and suitable activewear. Beginners should try different paddles made of different materials and weights to find their preferred way of playing.

Scoring: Pickleball typically follows a rally-scoring system, with points scored only by the serving side. Teams conduct matches up to 11 points, and a team must secure a victory by a margin of two points.

rules of pickleball

To serve the ball, the serving team must use an underhand motion. They should stand on the right side of the court. The ball must be hit diagonally into the opponent's serving area. The ball must clear the non-volley zone (the first seven feet from the net also known as the kitchen) and bounce once on the opponent's side.

Volleying: The pickleball rules do not allow players to strike the ball in the air without it bouncing first within the non-volley area. This rule spices things up a bit and makes the game a tactical dance between offence and defence. Saying that, volleying can be the perfect execution for the perfect point!

The Kitchen: Also known as the non-volley zone, the rule was designed to prevent players from standing right up against the net. Simply put, you can't step into the non-volley zone and hit a volley or step into the kitchen after hitting the ball. Your momentum from hitting a volley outside the kitchen can't carry you in to the non-volley zone.

Two-Bounce Regulation: The serving team and the receiving team both have to let the ball bounce once before hitting or sending it back. Following these initial two bounces, the ball can be either volleyed or hit after bouncing. Pickleball's charm lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

When you start playing your first game, remember to enjoy yourself. The more you play the more the rules make sense, trust us, we've tried!

Pickleball is a game for all, whether you're experienced in racquet sports or new. It's a fun hobby that anyone can enjoy!

You can book pickleball, the same way you book badminton or squash. At any of our Brio centres here in Cheshire West who offer racquet sports! Book online, via the app or speak to a member of the team today. See you on the court!