Pickleball is an amazingly fun sport that has elements of badminton, tennis and ping pong. The dimensions are similar to a badminton – sized court and has a modified tennis net. The sport can be played indoors and outdoors. Pickleball is played with a plastic ball with holes and hit with a wooden and/or composite paddle. It can be played as doubles or singles.

Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities — are credited for creating game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the US and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts. Click to read the complete history of pickleball.

Banging is part of the game. However, dinking (soft shot) is part of the game as well. There are strategic things that can be done to slow the pace of the game. As an instructor, I can offer multiple ways to force “bangers” to play the soft game. Likewise, what we want is a balance of dinking and banging. This balance will help you be competitive in any game.

Pickleball is a sport that embraces individuals regardless of their athleticism and skill level. Initially, it would be advisable to play others at your own skill level. As you progress, you will want to play with others’ whose skills are higher than yours. This will allow your game to go to the next level. I can help you with basic fundamentals that will assist you in improving your game. As an instructor, I would work on drills that would simulate game play so that the moves and strokes become comfortable for you.

You have a right to just play recreationally. However, most people want to improve their play by hitting various shots consistently and with better accuracy. The only way a player can improve their game is to drill. In every sport, practicing and drilling is key to growth! Pickleball is no exception. As an instructor, it is important to have an outsider observe, analyze and advise your play in order to see better play results. I can help you get better!!

Choosing a paddle is a very personal endeavor. There are many who advise you to choose pickleball paddles because of brand names and various differences that each entails. I recommend you choose a paddle that feels comfortable to YOU. This means that you will need to try out paddles before investing in them. Watch this video to help you choose a paddle that is right for you.

As with any other sport, there are multiple brand names that present their pickleballs as the best. I think you should try as many pickleballs as possible. If you play at a center or use a public venue, you might be at the mercy of whatever the facility uses. However, it is important for you to understand the differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs. Watch this video to find out more about the differences in picklballs.

You should begin wearing clothes that are comfortable for you. Also, I would suggest wearing clothes made out of material that have moisture wick fabric. A court shoe is preferable, particularly when playing indoors. Please click here to gain additional information about shoes and clothing.