It’s like tennis, ping-pong, and badminton had a very fun baby. All you need is a paddle, a wiffle-like ball, and a few friends (or future rivals). It's social, easy to learn, and a great workout — perfect for players of all ages. Its growth has skyrocketed thanks to its fun and inclusive vibe.

Pickleball is easy to learn, promise! Here’s the quick version: games go to 11 (win by 2), you serve underhand, and each side has to let the ball bounce once before anyone starts volleying. Only the serving team scores points, and smashes from inside the kitchen (a no-volley zone near the net) are a no-go. It's like polite chaos — with a paddle.

• Call the score before every serve
• Don’t walk onto other courts mid-rally
• Be cool in open play (rotate, share courts)
• Compliment a good shot — even if it wasn’t yours

Pickleball is competitive, but it’s also super social. Keep it kind out there!

Pickleball lives somewhere between tennis and ping-pong, but with its own flair. The court’s smaller, the paddle’s solid (no strings!), and the ball’s kind of like a wiffleball. It’s easier on the body, quicker to
learn, and highly addictive — in the best way.

Only the serving team can score points, games go to 11 (win by 2), and trust us — it makes sense after a couple games. Until then, just smile and fake it till you dink it.

Totally. It’s one of the most accessible sports around — people of all ages and skill levels can jump in and have fun from day one.

Not much — and that’s the beauty of it. You can usually borrow or rent a paddle when you're just getting started, and courts are popping up everywhere. But if you're playing more than once (you will be), you’ll want your own paddle, a few balls, and some grippy sneakers. Throw on something comfy you can move in, bring water, maybe a towel, and most importantly — bring your good vibes. That's the real must-have gear.

Yes! Lots of players use tennis courts with portable pickleball nets or tape down temporary lines. Some places even have both sets of lines painted already — just bring your crew and you’re good to go.

Absolutely! Doubles is the most common format, but singles pickleball is totally a thing — and a great workout, too.

Indoor balls are lighter, softer, and have fewer holes — perfect for control and a quieter game. Outdoor balls are a bit tougher, with more holes to handle wind and rougher surfaces.

TL;DR: they’re both round, but built for different vibes.

If you’re new, start with a lightweight paddle with a nice wide face — it gives you more control and helps build confidence. As you level up, you’ll start noticing things like paddle weight, grip size, and core material. Translation: your dream paddle is out there.

Ah, the dink — the gentle ninja move of the pickleball world. It’s a soft shot that lands in your opponent’s kitchen, just over the
net. It slows things down, resets the point, and keeps your opponents guessing.
Paddle low, wrist relaxed, vibes high.

This is the shot you hit after the serve + return — usually soft and arcing into the kitchen. Why? It gives the serving team time to move up and get into position. Think of it as your slow, sneaky power move.

The “kitchen” is the non-volley zone — a 7-foot area on each side of the net. You can step into it, just don’t volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing inside. It keeps things interesting. And yes, you’ll hear
someone shout “YOU WERE IN THE KITCHEN!” eventually. It’s a rite of passage.

Skill ratings help match you with players at a similar level.

• 1.0–2.5 = Just starting out
• 3.0–3.5 = Comfortable with the basics, starting to play smarter
• 4.0+ = Bringing the heat with strategy and consistency

No matter your number, there's always fun to be had.

Check apps like Places2Play or PicklePlay, or search for local parks and rec centers. Chances are, there’s a court closer
than you think.