Views

How to get into pickleball as a beginner

Following on from his previous article where Jack Shaw explained the rise of Pickleball, our American Writer focuses on how older people can start playing the sport and the benefits it can have.

Pickleball is a fun, social and low-impact sport. It’s perfect for staying active at any age. If you’re new to the game, here’s how to start and enjoy every moment on the court.

If you’re looking for a new way of staying active, making friends and trying something different, pickleball is a great choice. It’s easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and is accessible to players of all skill levels.

Is Pickleball Easy for Beginners?

One of the best things about pickleball is how little you need to start. A pair of comfortable trainers, a lightweight paddle and a few balls are all you require. Many community clubs and leisure centres across the U.K. offer beginner-friendly pickleball sessions, so you won’t have to look far to find a welcoming group.

A highlight of pickleball is that it’s a game of strategy rather than speed. The underhand serve and slower ball movement reduce the strain on joints. This smaller court means less running compared to traditional tennis.

Watching a few games can ease any nerves if you’re unsure about stepping onto the court. Also, consider talking to experienced players, who are usually more than happy to help beginners. It is also a fantastic way to meet new people and build confidence.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a casual game of tennis or a round of badminton on the lawn, you are already halfway to understanding pickleball. This fast-growing sport is easy to learn, kind on the joints, and — most importantly — a brilliant way to stay social and active. Pickleball originated in the 1960s and has gained popularity in the U.K., especially among older adults looking for a fun and engaging way to stay fit.

The pickleball court is smaller than the tennis version, and the sport requires a paddle and a perforated plastic ball, making it accessible for all fitness levels. Whether picking up a paddle for the first time or returning to sport after a long break, pickleball offers the perfect mix of movement and camaraderie.

What Are the Rules of Pickleball?

The first rule is that serving must be underhand. Unlike tennis, pickleball requires an underhand serve, meaning the paddle must strike the ball below waist level with an upward motion. It must travel diagonally and clear the non-volley zone, called the “kitchen.”

The second rule is to stay behind the baseline while serving. The server must start from behind the baseline and hit the ball diagonally into the opponent’s service box. If the ball clips the net but lands in the correct service area, it’s still in play.

The third rule is to play to 11, 15 or 21 points. Standard games go to 11, but the team must win by at least two points. Games may extend to 15 or 21 points in tournaments, following the “win by 2” rule.

The fourth rule is to keep serves out of the non-volley zone. The ball must not land in the kitchen. If the ball touches the kitchen line on a serve, it’s out.

The fifth rule is alternating serves in singles and doubles. In singles, players serve from the right when their score is even and from the left when it’s odd. Each team gets a turn to serve in doubles, rotating after losing a rally

What Are the Social and Health Benefits of Pickleball?

From a health perspective, pickleball can improve balance, coordination and cardiovascular fitness without the high impact of running-based sports. The steady movement and quick reflexes help keep both mind and body sharp. A pickleball session can burn up to 600 calories per hour. Regular activity like pickleball can support mental and physical well-being while reducing age-related conditions.

Beyond the physical benefits, pickleball offers something even more valuable: a sense of connection and community. It’s a naturally sociable sport, with double play encouraging teamwork and friendly competition. Many clubs host regular meetups and post-game gatherings, turning each session into a social highlight.

Whether you play casually or aspire to join a local club, pickleball is an open and welcoming sport. Many clubs offer beginner sessions where you can learn the rules, practice techniques and build confidence at your own pace. As you improve, you may feel drawn to friendly competitions or enjoy the game as a relaxed and social pastime. Any way you play it, you’ll come out ahead.

As an accomplished writer and Fitness editor at Modded, Jack Shaw has established his reputation as a respected authority on sports and their effect on physical health. His work can also be found in publications such as SportsEdTV, Better Triathlete and Senior Lifestyle Magazine.