Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and it's taking India by storm. Whether you're a tennis player looking for something new, a fitness enthusiast seeking a fun workout, or simply curious about the sport everyone's talking about - this guide will get you started.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It's played on a court smaller than tennis, with a solid paddle and a perforated polymer ball. The game is easy to learn but offers enough depth to keep you challenged for years.
Why Pickleball is Perfect for Beginners
- Smaller court means less running - great for all fitness levels
- Underhand serve is easier to master than tennis
- Social by nature - doubles is the most popular format
- Quick to learn - you can start playing in your first session
- Low impact on joints compared to other racquet sports
Basic Pickleball Rules
Don't worry - pickleball rules are simpler than they seem. Here are the essentials:
Serving
- Serves must be made underhand
- The paddle must contact the ball below waist level
- Serves must be diagonal, landing in the opposite service area
- Only one serve attempt is allowed (no second serve like tennis)
The Two-Bounce Rule
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can volley (hit it in the air). This prevents serve-and-volley tactics and makes rallies longer.
The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)
The 7-foot zone on each side of the net is called the "kitchen." You cannot volley the ball while standing in the kitchen - this prevents players from smashing at the net.
Scoring
- Games are typically played to 11 points
- You must win by 2 points
- Only the serving team can score points
- In doubles, both players get to serve before the serve goes to the other team
Equipment You Need
- Paddle: Start with a mid-weight paddle (7.3-8.4 oz). Composite or graphite paddles are great for beginners.
- Ball: Outdoor balls are heavier with smaller holes; indoor balls are lighter with larger holes.
- Shoes: Court shoes with good lateral support. Tennis or volleyball shoes work well.
- Comfortable athletic clothing
💡 Tip: At Two88, we provide paddles and balls, so you can try the sport without any upfront investment!
Where to Play Pickleball in Gurugram
If you're in Gurugram or Delhi NCR, Two88 is the premier destination for pickleball. Our indoor facility offers:
- Premium indoor courts with professional-grade flooring
- Clean air filtration - escape the pollution while you play
- 24/7 access for members
- Equipment provided for beginners
- Coaching sessions for all skill levels
- A welcoming community that helps newcomers learn
Tips for Your First Pickleball Session
- Start slow - focus on getting the ball over the net, not power
- Practice your dinks (soft shots that land in the kitchen)
- Stay patient at the net - wait for attackable balls
- Watch experienced players and learn from their positioning
- Have fun! Pickleball is social - chat with your opponents
Remember, everyone was a beginner once. The pickleball community is known for being welcoming and helpful. Don't be afraid to ask questions!