Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America, with courts popping up everywhere across Florida! If you are looking to get in the game, this guide will help you learn the rules and find out where to go to play.
Pickleball Rules: A Beginner’s Guide
Pickleball is an easy-to-learn, fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Whether you’re a total beginner or just need a refresher, here are the essential rules to get you started.
The Basics
- Pickleball is played on a 20’ x 44’ court (same size as a badminton court).
- You can play singles (1v1) or doubles (2v2).
- Games are played to 11 points, and you must win by at least 2 points.
- Only the serving team can score points.
Serving Rules
- The serve must be underhand and struck below the waist.
- The ball must be hit diagonally into the opponent’s service box.
- The server must stand behind the baseline and cannot step into the court while serving.
- The ball must clear the non-volley zone (aka the “kitchen”) and land in the opponent’s service court.
- If the serving team wins a point, the same server switches sides and serves again. In doubles, both players on a team get a chance to serve before the other team gets the ball.
Double Bounce Rule
- When the ball is served, the receiving team must let it bounce before returning it.
- The serving team must also let the return bounce before hitting it back.
- After these two bounces, players can hit the ball out of the air (volley) or off a bounce.
The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)
- The kitchen is the 7-foot area on both sides of the net.
- Players cannot volley (hit the ball out of the air) while standing in the kitchen.
- Players can step into the kitchen only if the ball has bounced first.
- If a player volleys while in the kitchen or steps into it after volleying, it’s a fault.
Faults & Let Calls
A fault occurs when:
- The serve lands outside the correct service box.
- The ball is hit out of bounds.
- The ball does not clear the net.
- A player volleys in the kitchen.
- The ball is volleyed before the double bounce rule is satisfied.
A “let” may be called if:
- The serve hits the net but still lands in the correct service box. (Some places allow a redo, others do not.)
Scoring System
- Only the serving team can score points.
- In doubles, the server announces three numbers:
- Their score
- The opponent’s score
- Server number (1 or 2)
- Example: “5-3-1” (meaning the serving team has 5, the receiving team has 3, and the first server is serving).
- Games are played to 11 points, win by 2 (some competitive games go to 15 or 21).
Strategy & Tips
✅ Hit to the kitchen – Drop shots force opponents to hit upward, giving you an advantage.
✅ Stay out of the kitchen – Unless you’re hitting a bounce shot, avoid stepping in!
✅ Communicate – In doubles, call shots and let your partner know who’s taking the ball.
✅ Stay ready – Keep your paddle up and be prepared for quick returns.
Pickleball is easy to learn, but mastering it takes time. Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, understanding these rules will help you enjoy the game and improve quickly!
