Pickleball 101

Every point starts with a serve. The serve must be hit underhand with the paddle contacting the ball below waist level. You serve diagonally cross-court, clearing the net and landing in the opposite service box. Both feet must stay behind the baseline until the ball is struck. Only one serve attempt is allowed (no let serves in standard play). A “drop serve” (bouncing the ball first) is also permitted.

This is pickleball’s signature rule. After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce before returning it. Then the serving team must also let it bounce before playing their shot. That’s two bounces — one on each side. After those two bounces, both teams can either volley (hit it out of the air) or play it off the bounce. This rule eliminates the serve-and-volley advantage and extends rallies, making the game more strategic and accessible.

The “Kitchen” is the 7-foot zone on each side of the net. You cannot hit a volley (a ball out of the air) while standing in the Kitchen or touching its line. Even if your momentum carries you into the Kitchen after a volley, it’s a fault. You can enter the Kitchen at any time — you just can’t volley from there. You’re free to hit balls that have bounced while in the Kitchen. This rule prevents players from camping at the net and slamming every shot, keeping the game strategic.

A fault ends the rally. Common faults include: hitting the ball out of bounds, failing to clear the net, volleying from the Kitchen, violating the two-bounce rule, or the ball hitting a player. If the serving team commits a fault, the serve passes to their partner (in doubles) or to the opposing team. If the receiving team faults, the serving team scores a point. A ball that lands on any line is considered in, except the Kitchen line on a serve (which is out).

Games are played to 11 points, and you must win by 2. In traditional (side-out) scoring, only the serving team can earn points. Tournament games may be played to 15 or 21. Some formats use rally scoring where either team can score on any rally — a newer format that’s gaining popularity for faster-paced play and broadcast-friendly match lengths.

A typical game to 11 takes about 15–25 minutes depending on skill level and rally length. Tournament matches (best of 3 games) can run 45 minutes to over an hour.

Indoor courts tend to have a smoother surface and no wind, which allows for more controlled play. Indoor balls are softer with larger holes. Outdoor courts deal with wind and sun, and outdoor balls are harder and heavier. The fundamentals are the same, but strategy shifts slightly between the two.

Not at The PB Jar — we have loaner paddles and provide all the balls for open play. Just wear athletic clothing and court shoes with non-marking soles. Once you’re hooked, our pro shop can set you up with your own gear.

DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is the standard rating system for pickleball. It ranges from 2.0 (beginner) to 8.0 (professional). You don’t need a rating to play — it’s only required for certain leagues and tournaments. You can get rated by playing in DUPR-verified events or getting assessed by a DUPR coach.

Absolutely. A typical hour of pickleball burns 400–600 calories, improves cardiovascular health, builds agility and balance, and is easy on the joints compared to higher-impact sports like tennis or running. It’s also great for mental sharpness — the strategy keeps your brain engaged.

Yes — pickleball is great for kids. The smaller court, lighter ball, and simple rules make it easy for children as young as 6–8 to pick up. Many clubs and schools now have youth programs and junior leagues.