If you haven't yet heard of Pickleball, don't worry—you’re not alone. But once you dive into this quirky, high-energy game, you’ll quickly see why it’s one of the fastest-growing sports across Australia (and the globe)! It’s a little bit of tennis, a little bit of badminton, and a whole lot of fun.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what Pickleball is, a few key rules, and some top advice on choosing the right equipment. Ready to paddle up? Let’s go!

So, What Exactly Is Pickleball?

No, the name doesn’t mean you’re whacking pickles over a net—though that would be fun to watch. Pickleball is a mashup of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. Played on a smaller tennis-like court with paddles and a plastic ball, it’s a sport that’s easy for beginners to learn but challenging enough to keep seasoned players on their toes.

With fast-paced rallies, light-hearted competition, and minimal equipment, it’s a game that anyone can enjoy—regardless of age or skill level. It’s especially popular because it combines elements of various racquet sports, making it accessible yet unique.

How to Play: Basic Rules & Flow of the Game

One of the best parts about Pickleball is that the rules are simple and easy to follow. Here’s a quick rundown:

Court & Teams

Court size: Same as a badminton court (6.1m x 13.4m).
Net: Slightly lower than a tennis net.
Players: Play singles or doubles (2 vs. 2 is most common).

How to Play

Serve: Serves are made underhand and must land diagonally in the opposite service area.
Double Bounce Rule: Each team must let the ball bounce once before volleying it. This keeps the game tactical and ensures longer rallies.
The Kitchen: The non-volley zone (the first 2 metres on either side of the net) is called the "kitchen." You can’t stand inside it and smash the ball mid-air. No “kitchen crimes” allowed!
Winning: Games are typically played to 11 points, but you have to win by 2.

The game is designed to be fast and fun, with players moving back and forth between dinks (soft shots) and power hits, keeping everyone on their toes.

What Equipment Do You Need?

If you’re new to Pickleball, getting started is easy. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

Paddles

Pickleball paddles are bigger than ping-pong paddles but smaller than tennis racquets.

Pickleball Balls

These are hollow, lightweight plastic balls with holes, similar to a wiffle ball.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Balls: Indoor balls are softer with fewer holes, while outdoor balls are harder and more durable for windy conditions.

Nets

If you’re setting up your own court, portable Pickleball nets are available and easy to assemble. Some parks and gyms already have Pickleball courts, so check around before buying one.

Tips for Beginners: Get the Ball Rolling

Start with Doubles Playing doubles makes it easier to cover the court and helps you learn the basics without getting too winded.

Master the Dink The dink (a soft, controlled shot) is key in Pickleball. It forces your opponents to move up, setting you up for the perfect power shot.

Stay Out of the Kitchen Watch your feet—stepping into the kitchen while hitting a volley is an easy way to lose a point.

Have Fun! At the end of the day, Pickleball is about having a blast, meeting new people, and staying active.

Final Thoughts: Give Pickleball a Go!

Whether you're looking for a new sport to master or just want something fun to play with friends on the weekend, Pickleball is worth a try. It’s easy to pick up, keeps you active, and guarantees plenty of laughs.

HART Sport offers a range of Pickleball gear—paddles, balls, and nets—so you can jump into the game with confidence. Give it a go, and we promise you’ll be hooked after your first match.

See you on the court—and remember: no kitchen fouls!