FAQ’s

If you’re a beginner pickleball player or simply want to learn about pickleball, you’ve come to the right place. On this page, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about pickleball, including pickleball history, pickleball rules, and pickleball strategies for improvement.

Even if you’re already a seasoned pickleball player, we hope this page will provide you with the information you need to enjoy this exciting and fun sport. So grab a paddle and let’s dive in!

• • What is pickleball?
  Pickleball is a racquet sport played on a court with paddles and a ball. It combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, but is played on a court about 1/3 the size of a tennis court.

• • What is the origin of pickleball?
  Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three fathers in Washington State who were looking for a new backyard game to play with their families on a summer day on Bainbridge Island.

• • How is pickleball different from tennis?
  Pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis and with a lower net. The ball used in pickleball is made of lightweight plastic and has holes punched through it, making it slower and easier to control than a tennis ball. Pickleball is also played with solid paddles instead of strung rackets. In pickleball, the ball is served underhand, whereas tennis requires an overhand serve.

• • How do you play pickleball?
  To play pickleball, two or four players hit a perforated ball over a net using paddles. The ball is served diagonally across the court and players try to rally the ball back and forth over the net, similar to tennis. Points are scored by the serving team when a player on the opposing team is unable to return the ball or hits it out of bounds, or commit another fault (like hitting it out of the air in the kitchen).
• • What is the double bounce rule in pickleball?
  After the ball is served, it must bounce once on the receiving side and one on the return. This is why it’s called the “double bounce rule,” as it must bounce twice. After the return, players may hit the ball out of the air before it bounces on their side, as long as they are not standing in the kitchen (also called the non-volley zone).

• • What is the ball used in pickleball?
  The ball used in pickleball is made of durable plastic and has holes punched through it. It is similar in size to a wiffle ball, but is slightly heavier. The ball is designed to fly slower and have less bounce than a tennis ball, making it easier for players to hit and control.
• • What is the difference between outdoor pickleballs and indoor pickleballs?
  Outdoor pickleball balls have 40 holes and indoor pickleball balls have 26 holes. Both balls look similar and can be any color for visibility or court conditions.

• • How do you learn to play pickleball?
  To learn how to play pickleball, you can take lessons from a coach or watch instructional videos online. You can also practice your skills by hitting the ball against a wall or playing against a partner. Many recreational centers, senior centers, and cities in the United States have pickleball learn-to-play programs, leagues, and classes.

• • How do you win at pickleball?
  The goal of pickleball is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and within the boundaries of the court, and to prevent your opponent from doing the same. The first player or team to reach 11 points and have a lead of at least two points wins the game.

• • What do you need to start playing pickleball?
  To start playing pickleball, you will need a pickleball court, pickleball paddles, and a pickleball. You can play doubles pickleball (with two players per side) or singles pickleball (one player per side). Some players may also choose to wear athletic shoes and clothing, but there’s nothing specific required.

• • How can I improve my pickleball skills?
  Practice regularly to improve your pickleball skills. Take lessons from a certified coach and watch instructional videos or attend clinics. You can also try to play against opponents who are better than you to challenge yourself and improve your skills. Additionally, working on your physical fitness and footwork can also help improve your pickleball game.

Pickleball Visalia is a group of Pickleball enthusiasts who love to play and socialize. We are a Tulare County group comprised mostly of local players of varying levels of gameplay. We encourage those interested in joining the group to contact us through our contact form at the bottom of this page, or better yet…. MEET US ON THE COURT!