So, you’ve finally decided to learn how to play pickleball . . . the sport that has taken over country clubs, driveways and your uncle’s Facebook posts. Good choice.
But before you step onto the court with zero clue what’s happening (and risk getting schooled by a 75-year-old with the reflexes of a ninja), let’s break it down:
✔ Pickleball rules (without making it sound like homework).
✔ Scoring system (so you don’t embarrass yourself).
✔ Winning strategies (a.k.a. how to crush your opponents without breaking a sweat).
By the end of this, you’ll be serving, dinking and dominating like a pro . . . or at least looking like one (because that's all that counts)!
So pay attention, rookie. We've got work to do.
What is pickleball? (and why is everyone obsessed?)
The math is simple:
Pickleball = Tennis + Ping Pong + A Sport You Can Actually Win At.
- Played on a badminton-sized court with a plastic perforated ball.
- Uses a solid paddle (not a stringed racket like tennis).
- Can be played as singles (1v1) or doubles (2v2).
- You don’t have to be an athlete to dominate (huge win!)
Translation?
It’s easy to learn, fun to play and dangerously addictive. You’ve been warned people!
Related read: "Why Is Pickleball So Popular? (And Why You’ll Soon Be Obsessed Too)"
Pickleball court layout (a.k.a. where the magic happens)
- Baseline - Where you serve from. If you step over it, expect judgmental glares from seasoned players.
- Non-Volley Zone (the kitchen) – A sacred 7-foot area near the net. NO volleys allowed. Step in at the wrong time? Instant shame.
- Sidelines - If the ball lands outside, congratulations - you just gifted your opponent a point.
- Service boxes - Where the ball must land after a serve. Get it right, or risk looking clueless.
Related read: "What is the Kitchen in Pickleball? The Hilarious Rule That Baffles Everyone."
How to serve in pickleball (without looking like a total rookie).
Serving in pickleball isn’t complicated, but mess it up and you’ll instantly look like a newbie (and who wants that!?)
Golden rules of serving:
✔ Underhand only – No overhead serves. This isn't Wimbledon.
✔ Paddle must be below your waist - Think "polite tap", not "trying to obliterate your opponent."
✔ Diagonal serve – Must land in the opponent’s service box across from you.
✔ One chance only – No second serves like tennis. Miss? Tough luck!
Pro tip: A good serve sets up the point - don’t just lob it over like a wimp.
Pickleball’s double bounce rule (yes, you have to let it bounce).
Why does this rule exist we hear you ask?
To stop pickleball from turning into a chaotic, net-smashing free-for-all.
The double bounce rule explained:
1. The ball must bounce ONCE on each side before volleys (smashing it mid-air) are allowed.
2. After the two bounces, it’s open season - volleys, smashes, chaos ensue.
Related read: "What is the double bounce rule in Pickleball (and why it saves you from instant humiliation)."
Scoring in pickleball (a.k.a. how to keep up without crying).
The good news? Pickleball scoring is easier than tennis.
The bad news? It still confuses newbies.
✔ Games are played to 11, win by 2.
✔ Only the serving team can score. Lose a rally? No points lost, you just lose your serve.
✔ Doubles has its own weird numbering system (but don’t worry, you’ll get it).
Doubles Score Example:
- First number = serving team’s score
- Second number = opponent’s score
- Third number = first or second server (e.g., “7-5-2” = serving team has 7, opponent has 5 and the second server is up).
Pro tip: Still confused? Fake confidence, nod when the score is called and pray (works every time!)
Related read: "Pickleball rules: the unofficial, official guide to not looking like a rookie."
Winning at pickleball (a.k.a. how to dominate without making enemies).
Winning isn’t just about hitting the ball hard . . . it’s about playing smart.
- Master the Dink – Instead of smashing the ball, use soft shots (dinks) to force mistakes.
- Own the Kitchen Line – The closer you are to the net (without stepping in), the more control you have. Get there ASAP.
- Keep the Ball Low – High shots = easy smashes for your opponent.
- Doubles = Communication – Nothing screams "we’re losing" like two teammates swinging at the same ball.
Final thoughts: you’re officially ready to play!
You now know how to play pickleball - the sport that’s equal parts fun, strategy and highly competitive.
Ready to dominate? Step up your game with Nilk’s premium carbon fiber paddles - because if you’re going to play, you might as well play to win . . . and look good whilst doing it.
Final pro tip: If all else fails, just wear a visor and loudly discuss “dinking strategy” so you sound like a pro (works a treat!)