Pickleball Rules Explained: How to Play and Win

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Nov 20, 2024

Advertisement

Pickleball is a unique sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played with a wiffle ball on a court similar in size to a badminton court, pickleball’s rules share similarities with tennis but come with a few tweaks. The simplicity and ease of play make it popular among all age groups and skill levels. It’s an inexpensive sport, accessible at various community centers, gyms, parks, and schools. Anyone can jump into pickleball with a few basic items and an understanding of the game.

The History of Pickleball

Pickleball was created in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Congressman Joel Pritchard, along with friends William Bell and Barney McCallum, came up with the game to entertain their children who were bored one summer day. With only some badminton paddles, an old court, and a wiffle ball at hand, they started hitting the ball over the net, and pickleball was born. Over time, the game evolved from a simple way to pass the time into a sport beloved by millions.

Advertisement

Accessible for All Ages

One major reason behind pickleball’s growing popularity is that it’s suitable for people of all ages. Older adults particularly enjoy the game because it provides cardiovascular exercise with minimal risk of injury. The smaller court size means players don’t need to cover as much ground, which helps reduce fatigue and the chance of injury. The lightweight ball and underhand serve make the game more manageable, even for beginners. Plus, with an average game lasting only about 12 minutes, frequent breaks are easy to take.

Advertisement

The Name’s Origin Story

There are two popular stories about how pickleball got its name. The first is connected to the Pritchards’ dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball during games and run away with it. The second version credits Joel Pritchard’s wife, Joan, who claimed the name came from “pickle boat,” a term referring to a boat crewed by leftover oarsmen and typically last to finish a race. The name fits because pickleball was pieced together using bits of other sports.

Advertisement

The Objective of the Game

Pickleball is played with paddles and features elements borrowed from badminton, tennis, and table tennis. The game takes place on a court divided by a raised net. Players use their paddles to hit a ball that resembles a wiffle ball over the net, aiming to score points similarly to tennis or badminton. The objective is simple: score more points than your opponent to win the match.

Advertisement

Health Benefits

Pickleball isn’t just fun; it’s also a great workout. As an aerobic activity, it boosts cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart disease. It helps build muscle strength and improves energy levels while burning calories. Because it’s a low-impact sport, it’s easy on the joints and focuses on balance and agility. The combination of physical activity and social interaction also contributes to better mental health, improving mood and overall well-being.

Advertisement

Rising Popularity

Pickleball is currently the fastest-growing sport in the United States, boasting over 2.8 million players and an annual growth rate of 12%. A major reason for this rapid increase is that many former tennis players are switching to pickleball due to its lower risk of injury. The sport has particularly gained traction among the retired community, where it offers both exercise and a way to socialize in a low-pressure setting.

Advertisement

Equipment Needed

To play pickleball, you only need a few basic items: a paddle, a ball, a net, and appropriate footwear. The court is about the size of a badminton court and has a net dividing the playing area. Pickleball paddles resemble oversized table tennis paddles and are made of materials like wood, composite, or graphite. The ball has holes like a wiffle ball and is made of hard plastic. For indoor play, squash or badminton shoes are recommended, while tennis shoes are suitable for outdoor games.

Advertisement

Common Pickleball Terms

Advertisement

A Social and Friendly Game

While many people start playing pickleball to stay fit, they often find that its social benefits are just as valuable. The smaller court size keeps players close, making conversation easy and encouraging camaraderie. Unlike the formality of tennis, pickleball has a more relaxed atmosphere, fostering inclusivity and a strong sense of community. It’s common to see friendly matches turn into opportunities for socializing and building connections.

Advertisement

Pickleball vs. Tennis

Though similar, pickleball and tennis have key differences. Both can be played as singles or doubles, and both sports share similar scoring systems. However, pickleball uses different equipment, including a unique paddle and a lighter, perforated ball. The court is also smaller than a tennis court. Unlike in tennis, pickleball requires serves to be underhand and mandates that the ball must bounce once on each side before volleying. Players also need to stay clear of the 7-foot no-volley zone near the net. These distinctions make pickleball more approachable and accessible for players of all levels.

Advertisement

You May Also Like