Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.—and for good reason. It’s easy to pick up, fun to play, and offers a great way to stay active while connecting with a friendly and welcoming community. Whether you’ve watched a match from the sidelines or just heard about the sport from a friend, getting started might feel a bit intimidating at first—but it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help new players build confidence, develop foundational skills, and get ready to take their first (and best) steps onto the court.
Start with people, not just paddles. The best way to learn pickleball is to surround yourself with others who are excited to play and help.
Connect with experienced players or coaches: A little guidance goes a long way. Pickleball is easy to learn, and many players are eager to help new faces.
Look for beginner-friendly locations: Parks, YMCAs, and community centers often offer beginner clinics or open play specifically for newcomers.
Don’t be afraid to ask: The pickleball community is known for being inclusive and approachable. A simple “Can I join you?” or “Any tips for a beginner?” often leads to warm welcomes and valuable insight.
Pickleball rewards patience and precision over power. Start by building a strong foundation.
Master the basics: Work on your grip, stance, and underhand serve before diving into advanced techniques.
Prioritize technique over speed: Rather than smashing the ball, focus on body positioning and paddle control. The goal is consistency, not just winning points.
Be patient with mistakes: Everyone starts somewhere. Each missed shot or fault is a chance to grow and understand the game more deeply.
You don’t need a full gear bag to begin your pickleball journey—just the essentials.
Start simple: A basic paddle (wood or composite, around $20–$30) and a set of indoor or outdoor balls is enough to begin.
Invest in proper shoes: Court shoes (not running shoes) offer the stability and grip needed for lateral movement, helping prevent injury.
Consider a beginner-friendly paddle: There are many beginner friendly paddles built to make learning easier by offering control and forgiveness. These are easily available with just a short amount of research online to discover beginner friendly brands.
Practice doesn’t have to mean hours of drilling—but focused time can speed up your improvement.
Work on key skills: Start with the soft game—dinks, volleys, and reflexes. These are often more important than power shots in real play.
Mix up your partners: Playing with and against people of different skill levels will challenge you and help you learn faster.
Watch and learn: Take time to observe high-level play online or in person. Seeing strategies in action will sharpen your court awareness.
The heart of pickleball lies in its fun, fast-paced, and social nature.
Celebrate your progress: From landing your first serve to winning a rally, each small win is a step forward.
Soak in the community vibe: Pickleball thrives on connection. Laugh, compete, and enjoy the moments shared on and off the court.
Once you’ve hit a few balls and found your rhythm, the best way to build confidence is by putting your new skills to the test. Whether it’s casual round robins or entry-level tournaments, playing competitively—at your own pace—can be one of the most fun and rewarding ways to grow in the game.
Find beginner-friendly leagues, tournaments, and open play near you at Pickleball.com. It’s your one-stop destination to discover local events, track your progress, and connect with the growing community of players just like you.