Pickleball has been gaining popularity rapidly in recent years, and for good reason. It's a fun, social, and accessible sport suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. If you're new to pickleball or considering giving it a try, this beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, including pickleball ratings. 

What Is Pickleball? 

Congressman Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell invented the game of pickleball one summer afternoon in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, WA as a fun activity for the whole family. Fast-forward to 2020, when the game’s popularity exploded across the U.S. as pandemic lockdowns as people craved exercise and community. 

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It's typically played on a badminton-sized court with a modified tennis net, using solid paddles and a perforated plastic ball. The game can be played as singles or doubles and is known for its friendly and inclusive community.

The objective of pickleball is simple: to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent's court without letting it bounce twice. The game begins with a serve, which must be made underhand and diagonally across the court. Once the ball is in play, players continue to volley until a point is scored or a fault is committed.

Basic Rules and Gameplay

Pickleball follows a set of straightforward rules to ensure fair play and enjoyable competition. Some key rules include:

• The non-volley zone, also known as “the Kitchen”, restricts players from hitting the ball while standing inside it.
• The serve must land within the opposite diagonal court and clear the non-volley zone.
• The ball must bounce once on each side of the net before players can begin volleying.
• Points can only be scored by the serving team.

Equipment and Attire

One of the appeals of pickleball is its minimal equipment requirements. All you need to get started are a paddle, a ball, and a pair of comfortable court shoes. Pickleball paddles come in a variety of materials and designs, so it's worth trying out different options to find one that suits your playing style. As for attire, breathable and moisture-wicking clothing is recommended, along with hats and sunglasses for outdoor play.

‍Tracking Your Skill Level and Player Rating

In pickleball, player ratings are used to assess skill levels and ensure balanced matches. The DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system is the most accurate and widely adopted pickleball rating system in the sport. Once you download the app and create an account (for free), DUPR takes into account your performance against opponents of varying skill levels, across recreational, club and league matches. With a personalized DUPR-score, you have a pickleball rating that reflects your abilities at any given moment.

To know more about how DUPR’s free algorithm and app works, check out this explainer from our data team.

How To Improve Your Game

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, there are always ways to improve your pickleball skills. Here are a few tips to help you level up your game:

• Practice regularly: Like any sport, consistent practice is key to improvement. Set aside time to work on your serves, volleys, and footwork.
• Take lessons: Consider taking lessons from a certified pickleball instructor to learn proper technique and strategy.
• Watch and learn: Watching videos of professional pickleball matches can provide valuable insights into tactics and gameplay.
• Play with better players: Playing against opponents who are more skilled than you can challenge you to elevate your game and adapt to different styles of play.
• Have fun: Above all, remember that pickleball is meant to be enjoyable. Don't be too hard on yourself and focus on having fun and making new friends on the court.

For more tips and content on how to improve your game, check out Aim7’s #1 free pickleball fitness app. 

Pickleball is more than just a sport; it's a community that welcomes players of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're looking for a new way to stay active or hoping to meet new people, pickleball offers something for everyone. With this beginner's guide, you'll be ready to grab a paddle, hit the court, and start enjoying all that pickleball has to offer. As the most accurate pickleball ratings system, DUPR is with you every step of the way along your pickleball journey. So what’re you waiting for? Create a free account now and hit the courts in no time!