So you’ve been invited to play pickleball, and instead of admitting you don’t know what a dink shot is, you’ve Googled it.
Welcome to the new world of pickle, girlies – be ready to fight for fully booked courts!
Step One: The Gear
- Paddles:
- Wooden: You’re here for vibes, not victory.
- Composite: Middle ground – like driving a Honda Civic. Reliable, nothing fancy.
- Carbon fibre: You’re flexing. You probably also wear performance socks.
- Balls: Yes, they have holes. Outdoor balls = smaller holes (because wind). Indoor balls = bigger holes (because physics).
Step Two: Learn the “Rules”
- Underhand Serve Only: If you thought this was your Wimbledon moment – sorry, it’s not.
- Two-Bounce Rule: Basically, nobody trusts you to volley right away. Ball must bounce once on each side before you get serious.
- The Kitchen: The 7-foot “no volley” zone. Step in if you like, but try smashing the ball there and you’ll be roasted harder than your burnt espresso.
- Scoring: Only the serving team scores. First to 11, win by 2. Don’t worry, someone else will keep track while you look stunningly confused.
Step Three: The Social Side
This is where pickleball really shines.
It’s less “sweaty competition,” more “gossip with cardio.”
Retirees, celebs, teenagers – it’s the only place you’ll find them all sharing a court.
If you can hold a paddle and resist diving for the ball like you’re auditioning for the Olympics, you’re good.
Step Four: Fun Facts to Sound Legit
- It’s not in the Olympics yet. But, if breakdancing can get in, pickleball’s got hope.
- “Pickleball” might be named after a dog called Pickles – or a “pickle boat.” No one agrees, and honestly, who cares?
- Longest rally ever? Over 10,000 shots and recognised by the Guinness World Records.
Congrats. You now know enough to fake it till you make it!