The 8 Basics of Pickleball for Beginners
What Are the Basic Rules for Pickleball? 8 Key Rules to Know
Rule #1 – You Can Play Pickleball Singles or Doubles
Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles. In doubles, there are four players on the court, with two teams of two. In singles, it's a one-on-one match. According to USA Pickleball, most games are played as doubles, which is often more beginner-friendly as it reduces the amount of movement required on the court. Doubles also make it easier to cover the court, allowing beginners to get to the ball with less effort. Whether you prefer singles or doubles, both formats offer their unique challenges and fun!
Rule #2 – Only the Serving Side Scores a Point
In pickleball, points can only be scored by the serving side. There are two roles: the server, who serves the ball, and the receiver, who returns it. In doubles, the first server begins on the right side (the even side) of the court and serves diagonally to the opponent. If they score, they switch to the left side and continue serving until they fault. Once a fault occurs, the second server on the team takes over. In singles, after a fault, the serve switches to the opponent, who continues until they fault.
Rule #3 – The First Server Is Determined by a Coin Flip or Other Random Methods
Who serves first in pickleball? It's determined randomly, often by a coin flip. The winner of the coin toss or paddle spin gets to serve first. Alternatively, some players rally for the first point to decide who serves.
Rule #4 – The Ball Needs to Bounce Once Per Side
Pickleball has a "two-bounce rule." After the serve, the ball must bounce once on the receiving side before it can be returned. Then, it must bounce once on the serving side before it can be hit back. After these two bounces, players can either volley the ball (hit it before it bounces) or let it bounce before returning it. This rule only applies to the start of each rally.
Rule #5 – Volley Serves Must Be Underhand
In pickleball, serves must be underhand. This is called a volley serve, and it's the traditional serving method in the game. When serving, your paddle arm should move upward in an arc-like motion, and the ball must be struck below your waist. The serve must go diagonally across the court and land within the opponent's service area. Each player only gets one serve, so if you fault, the serve goes to your partner (in doubles) or your opponent (in singles).
Rule #6 – You Have to Serve from Behind the Baseline
When serving, you must stand behind the baseline, which runs the width of the court parallel to the net. Both feet must be behind the baseline at the moment of serving, and at least one foot must be in contact with the ground. It's important to avoid stepping on or over the baseline or centerline until after the ball is struck.
Rule #7 – The Ball Must Stay In Bounds
The lines on a pickleball court aren't just for serving—they define the boundaries for play. If the ball lands out of bounds, it's a fault. The non-volley zone, also known as the "kitchen," is a seven-foot area on both sides of the net. If the ball lands in the kitchen on a serve, it's a fault. However, you can enter the kitchen anytime during play, just don't volley the ball while in the kitchen.
Rule #8 – The Game Is Usually Played to 11 Points
Pickleball is typically played to 11 points, with the winning side needing at least a 2-point lead. In tournaments, games might be played to 15 or 21 points, or as a best 2 out of 3 games. However, in casual play, 11 points is the most common winning score.
You've Got the Basics, Now Build on Them
These 8 rules are the foundation of pickleball, giving you what you need to start playing. As you become more familiar with the game, you can delve deeper into its nuances. But the best way to learn is to get out there and play—pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. for a reason!
