Key takeaways:
Master essential pickleball techniques and strategies with expert guidance and elevate your game.
Improve your skills through consistent practice, supportive drills, and engaging with fellow pickleball enthusiasts.
Choose the right Pickleball equipment for success on the court.
Pickleball participation has surged by 158.6% in the past three years, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in America. So it comes as no surprise as to why you’ve taken a keen interest in the sport! So, how do you play pickleball?
In the easiest words - practice, good equipment, and some more practice would be the way to go. However, to play pickleball at high levels, there are drills, shots, and rules you need to master. And that’s what we cover in this 7-step guide to playing pickleball like an expert!
Here at PB5star, we're all about helping you play your best on the pickleball court. Our performance-driven apparel makes you feel confident every time you pick up your paddle. Our durable clothing stands up to intense gameplay, while our PB5 Court2 shoes give you the edge you need for those quick moves and sharp turns.
Master the basic rules and scoring
Jumping into pickleball starts off like any other sport—you’ve got to grasp the game’s basic rules and scoring system. This dynamic sport blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, creating an experience that's both challenging and incredibly fun.
The game is set on a court similar to badminton with a net that is similar, but slightly lower, to a tennis net. One of the first skills you'll master is the serve - an underhand hit diagonally across the court, landing beyond the non-volley zone or "kitchen" zone.
Scoring in pickleball is slightly different than that of the other sports. Only the serving team can score points, with games typically played to 11 points and a 2-point lead needed for victory.
Part of the fun is calling out the score before each serve, creating a rhythm that keeps everyone engaged. In doubles, you'll use three numbers: your team's score, the opposing team's score, and the server number (1 or 2).
As you dive into the pickleball community, you'll quickly pick up lingo like "dink" (a soft shot into the kitchen), "volley" (hitting the ball before it bounces), and "fault" (any rule infraction). These terms not only help you communicate on the court but also connect you with fellow pickleball enthusiasts, making every game a social and enjoyable experience.
Develop a consistent serve
A powerful, reliable serve is the cornerstone for gaining an advantage over your opponents in pickleball. The secret to a good serve lies in proper technique and body mechanics. Start by holding your paddle with a relaxed grip and positioning your feet shoulder-width apart. Remember, the serve must be executed underhand, with the highest point of your paddle head below your wrist joint.
Engage your core and use your entire body to generate power, not just your arm. This approach will help you achieve both dependability and depth in your serves. Practice is the key to developing a solid serve. Set aside time during each session to focus solely on your serve. Try aiming for specific targets on the court to improve your accuracy. As you become more comfortable with the basic serve, experiment with different types, such as the power serve or the slice serve. This variety will keep your opponents guessing and give you more options during play.
Enhance your footwork
Footwork is central to your pickleball game. Precise positioning and agile moves can turn near-misses into thrilling winning shots.
Ladder drills: Use an agility ladder (or mark lines with tape) and work through patterns like high knees, in-and-outs, and lateral shuffles to improve quickness and coordination.
Mirror drills: Pair up with a partner and mimic their movements side-to-side and front-to-back. This helps boost your responsiveness and ability to change direction quickly.
Side shuffles: Practice side-to-side movements across the court to get used to moving laterally, which is essential for reaching wide shots.
Cone drills: Set up cones and sprint or shuffle between them to build your speed and foot control in multiple directions.
Wearing supportive, non-marking court shoes can also enhance stability and reduce the risk of injury on the court. Our PB5 Court2 shoes are built with Dynamic Stability Assist™ and are packed with features to deliver the traction and control needed for quick sprints and sharp pivots.
Perfect your dinking game
Mastering the art of dinking is a game-changer for your pickleball skills. This soft, controlled shot keeps the ball just over the net, challenging your opponent and creating exciting rallies. To refine your dinking technique, focus on keeping your paddle in front of your body and ensure your shots clear the net with confidence.
Practicing dinking drills with friends or at local pickleball meetups can significantly boost your accuracy and consistency while fostering a sense of community. Try standing at the non-volley zone line and exchanging gentle shots, aiming for precision and control. This drill builds muscle memory and enhances your feel for the ball. As you progress, introduce "dead dinks" - shots with minimal spin that drop quickly after crossing the net, adding an extra challenge for your practice partners.
Dominate at the net
Controlling the net is one of the most important skills in pickleball. When you're up at the net, you're in a prime position to cut off angles, respond to fast-paced volleys, and apply pressure to your opponent. To succeed here, it's all about staying alert, keeping your paddle up, and maintaining an athletic stance with knees slightly bent and weight on the balls of your feet. That way, you're always ready to move in any direction at a moment’s notice.
Here are a few other focused drills you can use to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence at the net:
Rapid-fire volley drill: Stand at the kitchen line with a partner and exchange quick volleys, trying not to let the ball drop. Focus on short, controlled movements and quick paddle responses.
Target volley drill: Place cones or markers on the opposite side of the net and try to volley the ball toward those targets. This helps build accuracy and precision.
Block and reset drill: Practice blocking fast-paced shots and softly resetting the ball into the non-volley zone. This drill improves your control under pressure.
Regular practice will help you stay agile and develop smart playing strategies to win on the court.
Develop a winning strategy
Strategy in pickleball is what elevates your game from reactive to proactive. Rather than simply responding to shots as they come, developing a strategy helps you stay a step ahead, control the pace of the game, and take advantage of your opponent’s weaknesses. Here are a few actionable ways to build a solid game strategy:
Study your opponent: Pay close attention to how your opponent plays. Are they favoring one side? Do they struggle with backhand shots? Are they quick to the net or slow on their feet? Use this information to adjust your shot placement and force errors.
Communicate in doubles: Strategy in doubles starts with great communication. Decide who covers which areas of the court, discuss shot preferences, and constantly check in with your partner during and between points.
Mix up your shots: Predictability is the enemy of strategy. Alternate between dinks, lobs, drives, and drops to keep your opponent guessing and prevent them from settling into a rhythm.
Know when to be aggressive: Look for moments when you can take control—like a high return or a ball left in the middle of the court. But also know when to slow things down and play defensively, especially when you're out of position or under pressure.
Work the angles: Create openings by hitting sharp cross-court shots or stretching your opponent out wide, then capitalize on the space left open for your next shot.
Ultimately, strategy is something that evolves with experience. Every match teaches you something new about how to outplay your opponent—not just with power, but with precision and planning.
Maintain peak physical and mental fitness
Staying in top shape is crucial for excelling in pickleball and enjoying the game to its fullest. Here's how you can build a fitness routine that enhances your performance and keeps you sharp during play:
Cardio for endurance: Incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workouts. For example, try 30 seconds of sprinting followed by 60 seconds of walking, repeated for 10–15 minutes. This mirrors the fast bursts of play followed by brief rest periods during matches, helping you build stamina for long rallies.
Core workouts: Strengthen your midsection with exercises like forearm planks (hold for 30–60 seconds), Russian twists, and bird-dogs. Strengthening your core will allow you to play more powerfully.
Improve your balance: For balance, try standing on one foot while doing a light paddle swing or practice single-leg squats. These drills improve your body control, especially during quick lateral movements or reaching for shots on the run.
Stretch regularly: Make dynamic stretching part of your warm-up—leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists help loosen you up before you hit the court. Afterward, switch to static stretches, focusing on hamstrings, quads, hips, and shoulders. This routine helps reduce muscle soreness and lowers injury risk.
Mindfulness drills: Stay centered during gameplay by practicing box breathing: inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. You can also spend a few minutes before each session visualizing your game—picture yourself moving confidently and making strong, accurate shots.
Positive self-talk: The mental side of pickleball often separates good players from great ones. Use phrases like "I’ve got this" or "Focus on one point at a time" to quiet doubts and maintain a clear, competitive mindset.
Remember, a well-rounded fitness approach not only improves your pickleball skills but also increases your enjoyment of the game.
Equip yourself for success
If you’re just starting your pickleball journey, now is the best time to invest in good-quality gear. A solid setup—paddle, balls, shoes, and comfortable clothing—ensures you can focus on improving your game rather than worrying about discomfort or equipment issues. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Paddle: Find one that feels comfortable in your hand and matches your playing style, whether you prefer more control or extra power.
Pickleballs: Stock up on a few durable balls that offer consistent bounce and hold up well over time. Indoor and outdoor balls are slightly different, so grab the right type for where you play.
Court shoes: Go for a pair of non-marking shoes with good grip and lateral support—this helps prevent injuries and keeps you quick on your feet.
Apparel: Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes that let you move freely. Breathability is key, especially for long matches.
Accessories: A few extras can go a long way—bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, a sweatband to keep cool, and a roomy bag to carry your gear.
With the right setup, you'll be ready to jump into the game, play your best, and have a great time on the court! If you’re looking for high-quality gear, PB5star is your best bet!
Common questions about playing pickleball
New to pickleball? You're not alone! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you start your journey.
What's the best way to improve my pickleball skills quickly?
Focus on mastering the basics first. Practice your serve, dinks, and volleys regularly. Join local beginner clubs or find a more experienced player to practice with.
How do I choose the right paddle as a beginner?
Look for a paddle that's comfortable and suits your playing style. As a starter, opt for a mid-weight paddle (7-8.5 oz) with a medium-sized grip. Our PB5star Game Gear collection offers a range of paddles ideal for beginners, designed to help you develop your skills with confidence.
What should I wear for pickleball?
Comfort and mobility are key. Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that allow for easy movement. Our PB5star performance shirts are engineered specifically for active players, keeping you cool and comfortable during play.
How can I understand the scoring system better?
The pickleball scoring system is complex but becomes easier with practice. Remember, only the serving team can score points. Before each serve, call out your team's score, opponent's score, and server number (1 or 2 in doubles). With time, it'll become second nature.
How can I find other beginners to play with?
Connecting with fellow players is one of the best parts of pickleball! Check out local recreation centers, join pickleball Facebook groups in your area, or use apps like Places2Play Pickleball to find nearby courts. Many communities organize beginner-friendly events, which are great opportunities to meet other enthusiasts and improve your skills together.
Level up your pickleball game
Mastering pickleball is a journey of continuous improvement, community connection, and personal growth. By honing your dinking skills, perfecting your third shot drop, and maintaining peak physical fitness, you're well on your way to dominating the court.
But perhaps more importantly, remember that pickleball is about more than just winning points—it's about building community, staying active, and having fun. So grab your gear, find your local court, and enjoy the journey. With consistent effort and a great attitude, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your game improves.
If you're looking to upgrade your gear or find performance apparel that works as hard as you do, PB5star has you covered. From reliable paddles to court-ready shoes and activewear, we’re here to support your growth every step of the way.
