New to Pickleball? Gain some basic paddle insights here

In today’s edition, we’re diving into the world of Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the US. Whether you're new to the game or just curious to try it out, we’ve got some tips to help you get started, covering basic equipment, warm-up exercises, and general advice for a smooth start. 

What you will need:

For equipment, you will need a paddle, pickleball ball, tennis shoes(ideally), water bottle(to stay hydrated), and comfortable light-weight clothes to wear for easy movement. Please note that pickleball paddles and balls are different from tennis, so we recommend you to avoid using alternatives such as table tennis paddles, etc.

Tips

1. Learn the Basics of the Game

• Objective: The goal is to score points by hitting the ball over the net so the opposing team can’t return it. Games are typically played to 11 points, and you must win by 2.
• Scoring: Only the serving team can score. Serve diagonally to the opponent's side and aim to keep the rally going.

2. Grip and Stance

• Grip: Use the “shake hands” grip, holding the paddle like a handshake to give you control and flexibility. This grip works well for forehands and backhands.
• Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight on the balls of your feet. This stance keeps you balanced and ready to move in any direction.

3. Mastering the Serve

• Serve Basics: The serve is underhand and must be hit below the waist. Aim for the opposite service box diagonally across the net.
• Serve Consistently: Focus on consistent, controlled serves rather than power. A good serve puts you in a strong position to start each rally.

4. Understand the “Double Bounce Rule”

• Both the serving and receiving teams must let the ball bounce once before volleying. This rule prevents immediate rushes to the net and encourages controlled play.

5. Get Comfortable with the “Kitchen” or Non-Volley Zone

• The 7-foot area near the net is known as the “kitchen,” where you cannot volley (hit the ball before it bounces).
• Tip: Avoid stepping into the kitchen unless the ball bounces in that zone. This keeps you ready for quick, accurate shots while staying on your toes.

6. Focus on Control over Power

• Beginners often focus on hitting hard, but control and placement are more effective. Try to place shots away from opponents or just over the net, making them harder to return.

7. Practice Dinking

• Dinking is a gentle, controlled shot aimed just over the net, especially useful when your opponent is near the back of the court.
• Tip: Practice dinking to force your opponent into the kitchen area, setting you up for an offensive shot if they leave an opening.

8. Communicate with Your Partner

• If playing doubles, communicate on who will cover which shots and who will take center balls. Clear communication helps prevent collisions and missed shots.

9. Stay at “Ready Position”

• After each shot, return to a ready position with your paddle up and centered, knees slightly bent, and focus on the ball to react quickly to the next shot.

10. Have Fun and Keep Practicing

• Pickleball is a social and fun game, so don’t worry about making mistakes. Enjoy the process, practice regularly, and you’ll notice improvement quickly.

Curious on where to play Pickleball in the Bay? You can refer to the list SF Recreation Park has made here and you can know the location, no. of courts, court type, nets, and availability.

Wanna see more pickleball groups on our app? You can easily search for existing groups or create your own, lead or join a pickleball group. To learn more, you can check out our app right now.