Britain’s New Favourite Sport?
Move over tennis and badminton – there’s a new game in town! Pickleball is the quirky, fast-paced sport that’s sweeping across the UK, and the best part? Absolutely anyone can play it. Whether you’re a total newbie to racket sports or just fancy trying something a bit different, pickleball is the perfect blend of fun, fitness, and friendly competition.
So, grab your paddle, and let’s dive into the basics.
What on Earth is Pickleball?
Despite the funny name, pickleball has nothing to do with gherkins. It’s a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played on a smaller court (about a third the size of a tennis court), with a plastic ball full of holes and solid paddles, it’s easy to pick up – and seriously addictive.
You can play singles or doubles, but most people start with doubles because it’s more social and a little less running around.
How Do You Play?
Here’s the lowdown in plain English:
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Serve it up: The ball is served underhand from behind the baseline, diagonally across the court.
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Let it bounce: Each team must let the ball bounce once on their side before hitting it back – that’s the “double bounce rule.”
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Rally away: Once the ball has bounced once on each side, you can volley it (hit it before it bounces) – but not while standing in the “kitchen.”
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Mind the Kitchen: The kitchen is a no-volley zone close to the net. No smashing allowed from there!
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Score smart: Only the serving team can score points. Games are usually played to 11 points, and you must win by 2.
It might sound like a lot, but after one game, you’ll be hooked – and laughing, guaranteed.
Why is Pickleball So Popular?
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Low impact: Great for all ages and fitness levels.
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Super social: Easy to meet people and join local clubs.
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Quick to learn: Most players get the hang of it within one session.
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Affordable: You don’t need expensive gear or a gym membership.
Basically, it’s the sport you didn’t know you were missing out on.
What Do You Need to Get Started?
You don’t need much to begin:
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A pickleball paddle (lighter than a tennis racket)
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A few pickleballs (think wiffle balls)
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Comfortable trainers
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Access to a court – often found at leisure centres, parks, or community halls
Bonus: You don’t need to book a year in advance to play like you might with tennis courts in summer!
Where Can You Play in the UK?
Pickleball is growing fast, with new courts and clubs popping up all over the UK. Check out:
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Local leisure centres or sports halls
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Community clubs
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Facebook groups or Meetup for beginners’ sessions
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The Pickleball England website for clubs near you
Top Tips for Beginners:
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Start with doubles – less running, more fun!
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Watch your feet – stay out of the kitchen unless the ball bounces in it.
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Don’t worry about being perfect – everyone is learning, and mistakes are part of the fun.
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Laugh it off – it's a light-hearted game, so bring good vibes and enjoy.
Ready to Play?
Whether you’re looking to try something new, stay active, or just have a good laugh with mates, pickleball is the perfect game to get involved in. No pressure, no posh gear, and loads of fun.
So what are you waiting for? Go on – give it a whack!