A Beginner’s Guide to Pickleball

Looking for a fun new way to stay in shape this Summer? Pickleball has been climbing the charts in popularity over recent years and is now a prominent amenity at many active-adult communities across the United States. Whether you’ve never heard of the sport before, or just want to learn a bit more before taking a swing, we’re here with your ‘Beginner’s Guide to Pickleball!’

How it Began

If you’re wondering why you only started hearing about Pickleball in recent years, it’s because it’s a relatively new sport. Pickleball was invented by three dads in 1965 on Brainbridge Island, after their kids were getting bored of the usual summer activities. Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum are credited with creating the game, which has evolved from their original handmade equipment and grown in popularity throughout the US and Canada. Curious about the name? Apparently, it’s because the original wiffle ball used belonged to one of the families’ dogs, named Pickle.

Court & Equipment

The sport is played on a court relatively the same size as a badminton court, but with a net lowered to 36” on the ends and 34” at the center. There is a no-volley zone (also referred to as the kitchen) seven feet on either side of the net. The paddle used is about twice the size of a typical table tennis paddle, and squarer in shape with rounded corners. The ball is also very similar to a wiffle ball though smaller in size.

Basic Rules

Pickleball is different than most net sports, in that a match is not won with a powerful serve. Instead, serves must be made underhand and the ball has to bounce once on each side of the net before a return volley. This modified serve slows the pace of the game, allowing more people to participate in a match. The serving team continues until they hit the ball out of bounds, or if they allow the ball to touch the no-volley zone. To win the game, a team must score 11 points and lead the opposing team by no less than two points.

Whether you’re looking to play with your partner, or make a competition of it with your neighbors, Pickleball is a fun and exciting way to stay active and enjoy the outdoor this Summer. So grab some friends and hit the courts, ‘cause we guarantee this is a game you’re going to love! For more tips on summertime activities, ‘like’ Lennar on Facebook.

Anna Young