Pickleball is known for being one of the easiest sports to learn, which is one of the reasons it has become so popular around the world. However, if you are new to the game, the rules can seem a little confusing at first.
The good news is that the basic pickleball rules are quite simple. Once you understand a few key ideas like serving, scoring, and the kitchen rule, you will be ready to start playing.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most important pickleball rules for beginners so you can quickly understand how the game works.
Basic Pickleball Rules for Beginners
Pickleball is played either as singles (one player on each side) or doubles (two players on each side). Doubles is the most common format, especially for beginners.
Players use paddles to hit a plastic ball over a net and into the opponent’s side of the court. The aim is to score points when the other team cannot return the ball.
The court is smaller than a tennis court, which makes the game easier to play and more accessible for beginners.
Serving Rules in Pickleball
Every point in pickleball starts with a serve. The serve must be hit underhand and the paddle must make contact with the ball below the waist.
The ball must be served diagonally across the court and land in the opponent’s service area. If the serve lands outside the service area or hits the net, it is considered a fault.
Only the serving team can score points in pickleball. If the serving team loses a rally, the serve passes to their partner in doubles. After both players have served and lost a rally, the serve then passes to the opposing team.
How Scoring Works
In most recreational pickleball games, players compete to reach 11 points. However, a team must win by at least two points. For example, if the score reaches 10–10, play continues until one team leads by two points.
Only the serving team can score points in pickleball.
In doubles, both players on the serving team get the chance to serve before the serve passes to the other team. The only exception is the very first serving team at the start of the game, where only one player serves before the serve switches sides.
What Is the Kitchen in Pickleball?
One of the most unique rules in pickleball involves an area of the court called the “kitchen”, also known as the non-volley zone.
This area is located on both sides of the net and prevents players from standing close to the net and smashing the ball.
Players are not allowed to volley the ball while standing inside the kitchen. However, they are allowed to step into the kitchen to return a ball after it has bounced.
Singles vs Doubles Rules
The basic rules of pickleball are the same whether you play singles or doubles.
The main difference is court coverage. In doubles, each team has two players who share the court, while singles players must cover the entire court themselves.
Because of this, doubles tends to involve longer rallies and more strategic play, which is why it is the most popular format for beginners.
Common Beginner Rule Mistakes
Common beginner mistakes in pickleball include:
- stepping into the kitchen when hitting a volley
- serving above the waist
- forgetting that only the serving team can score points
- serving to the wrong side of the court
These mistakes are very normal when first learning the game.
How Beginners Can Learn the Rules Quickly
The fastest way to learn pickleball rules is simply by playing the game. Many clubs offer beginner sessions where new players can learn the rules in a relaxed and social environment.
In the UK, organisations such as Pickleball England help promote the sport and support local clubs that welcome beginners.
After a few games, most players find the rules become second nature and the game becomes even more enjoyable.
Learn More About Pickleball
If you are completely new to the sport, you may want to start with our guide explaining what pickleball is.