Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK and the world – it’s an approachable and engaging game that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, making it ideal for new players and seasoned racket sport enthusiasts. Whether you’re a pickleball beginner or a curious tennis player looking to explore a fresh challenge, learning how to start playing pickleball can be a simple and rewarding experience.
At Bluecoat Sports, we offer the perfect environment to get started. Book a class or hire a pickleball court today and discover why so many people make it their new favourite sport.
For more information on pickleball court hire and booking classes, please call 01403 247572.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that blends key elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a compact court roughly one-third the size of a standard tennis court. It uses a lightweight plastic ball with holes (similar to a wiffle ball) and a solid paddle, larger than a table tennis paddle but smaller than a tennis racket.
The game is played as singles or doubles, with players serving diagonally and aiming to win points by rallying the ball over a net and landing it within the opponent’s court. Unique rules like the double bounce rule and the non-volley zone (also known as the kitchen) add strategic depth while keeping the pace of play manageable.
Pickleball is especially popular with players of all ages and fitness levels thanks to its simple rules, slower ball speed, and sociable format, making it one of the easiest racket sports to learn and enjoy.
Find out how does pickleball compare to tennis?
Get the right equipment to play
To start playing pickleball, you only need a few essentials:
- A pickleball paddle – lighter and easier to handle than a tennis racket.
- A plastic ball with holes (different from a tennis ball or a ping pong ball).
- Supportive footwear – similar to what you’d wear on a tennis court or for other court-based sports.
At Bluecoat Sports, we have paddles and balls available for use, so you can give the game a go without buying your own gear right away.
Choose comfortable clothes and footwear
Pickleball is active, but you don’t need a specialist kit. When you play, it’s recommended to wear:
- Comfortable gym wear, such as a breathable top, moisture-wicking t-shirt, and shorts or leggings that allow full range of motion.
- Non-marking trainers with good grip and ankle support – ideally designed for court sports like tennis or badminton.
- Optional accessories like a hat, visor, or headband can help keep hair and sweat out of your eyes, especially during long rallies or indoor sessions.
While pickleball suits all fitness levels, it’s surprisingly energetic, so dressing for comfort and movement is key. As with any sport, supportive footwear is arguably the most important item to get right, as it helps prevent injury and improves agility on the court.
Learn the basic rules
One of the reasons pickleball has become so popular is its simple and easy-to-follow rules. Here are the key rules that every new pickleball player should know:
1. Underhand serving
The game starts with an underhand serve hit diagonally across the court. The serve must clear the non-volley zone (the kitchen line) and land within the opponent’s service area. The ball must be struck below waist level and with an upward motion.
2. The double-bounce rule
Also known as the two-bounce rule, the ball must bounce once on each side following the serve before players can volley it in the air. This rule applies only to the first two shots of the rally and helps encourage longer rallies and more strategic play.
3. The non-volley zone
Players must avoid hitting volleys within the non-volley zone, a seven-foot area extending from the net on both sides, where only groundstrokes are permitted. This rule prevents constant smashes at the net and adds a layer of strategy to the game.
4. Scoring system
Pickleball games are typically played to 11 points, with a team needing to win by at least 2. Only the serving team can score. In doubles play, each player on the serving team takes a turn to serve until a fault is committed by both, which results in a side out, passing the serve to the opposing team.
5. Singles vs doubles
While the court size remains the same, singles play can be more physically demanding, requiring more court coverage. Doubles play is generally more social and tactical, with teamwork playing a larger role.
Find somewhere to start playing
The best way to begin is by finding a local venue that offers beginner-friendly sessions. At Bluecoat Sports, our social pickleball sessions are designed to make learning the game enjoyable, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow players.
Playing with others is one of the fastest ways to build your skills, boost your comfort on the court, and, most importantly, have fun. You might try:
- Pickleball singles matches to sharpen your footwork and court awareness.
- Doubles play to develop strategy and teamwork.
- Friendly rallies to practise your shots and build consistency.
No matter how you start, pickleball is a sport that rewards learning through play, and there’s always room to grow.
Keep improving your game
Once you’re comfortable on the court, there are plenty of ways to take your pickleball skills to the next level. Focus on refining the fundamentals and adding variety to your play. Key areas to work on include:
- Serving with consistency and accuracy in the correct service area.
- Controlling your shots around the kitchen line (non-volley zone).
- Knowing when to volley and when to let the ball bounce.
- Developing a versatile shot selection, including drop shots, drives, and dinks.
Watching experienced players, practising regularly, and challenging yourself in different match situations are all great ways to build confidence and sharpen your game.
Final tips for beginners
- Don’t worry about mistakes – the game is designed to be fun and accessible.
- Focus on having a go, learning the basics, and enjoying yourself.
- Ask other players about their experience playing the sport.
- Be open to trying new formats and learning as you go.
One of the best things about pickleball is how inclusive, welcoming and social it is for beginners. You’ll find players of all ages and backgrounds – from retired tennis players, to people looking for a way to stay active and boost mental health, to younger people discovering their new favourite activity.
Get started today at Bluecoat Sports
Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to transition from other sports, pickleball is an exciting way to stay active, socialise, and challenge yourself. With welcoming sessions and great facilities, Bluecoat Sports makes it easy to start playing pickleball in a relaxed and supportive setting.
Hire a court or book a session online, and if you have any questions, please speak to our friendly team to learn more.
