Welcome to the exciting world of pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis to create a game that’s fun for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a new way to stay active, meet new friends, or simply have a blast, pickleball has something for everyone. From its intriguing origins to its simple rules and growing popularity, let’s dive into everything you need to know about this captivating game.
By the end of this article, you’ll not only understand what pickleball is and how it started but also know where you can play it in London and why it’s called pickleball. So grab your pickleball paddle and let’s get started!
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that combines parts of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball that has holes in it, similar to a wiffle ball. The game can be played by two people (singles) or four people (doubles) on a court that is similar in size to a badminton court but with a lower net.
- Court Dimensions: The pickleball court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. The area near the net, called the “kitchen,” is 7 feet from the net on both sides.
- Net Height: The net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the middle.
- Equipment: Players use paddles that can be made from wood, composite, or graphite, and a plastic ball with holes.
Who Invented Pickleball?
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three dads named Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. They created the game on Bainbridge Island, which is near Seattle, Washington. The dads were trying to find something fun for their kids to do during the summer. Using parts of badminton, tennis, and table tennis, they invented a new game that everyone could enjoy.
Why is it Called Pickleball?
There are a couple of stories about how pickleball got its name. One popular story is that Joel Pritchard’s dog, Pickles, would chase after the ball and that’s how it got the name “pickleball.” However, according to Joel’s wife, Joan Pritchard, the game was named after a term in rowing called “pickle boat.” In rowing, the pickle boat is the last boat to finish a race, and it’s often made up of leftover rowers from other boats. Since pickleball is a mix of different sports, they thought it was a fitting name.
Where Can I Play Pickleball in London?
Pickleball is becoming very popular in London, and there are many places where you can play. Here are some of the best spots:
Popular Locations
Paddington Recreation Ground
- Location: Randolph Ave, London W9 1PD
- Facilities: Multiple outdoor courts where you can play pickleball.
- Booking: You can book the courts online through their website or in person.
Will to Win Hyde Park Tennis Centre
- Location: South Carriage Drive, London W2 2UH
- Facilities: Outdoor pickleball courts and you can rent equipment.
- Booking: You can book the courts on the Will to Win website.
David Lloyd Clubs
- Location: There are several David Lloyd Clubs across London.
- Facilities: Indoor pickleball courts and they offer professional coaching.
- Membership: You need to be a member to use the facilities regularly, but guest passes are available.
Pickleball England Events
- Details: Pickleball England hosts events and open play sessions at different places in London.
- Booking: Check their website for event schedules and registration details.
The Westway Sports & Fitness Centre
- Location: 1 Crowthorne Rd, London W10 6RP
- Facilities: Indoor courts and sessions for different skill levels.
- Booking: You can book the courts and sessions through the centre’s website or in person.
Community Groups and Clubs
Joining a local pickleball club or community group is a great way to find regular playing opportunities and meet other players. Websites like Meetup or local sports forums often have listings for groups and clubs dedicated to pickleball in London.
How to Play Pickleball | A Step-by-Step Guide
Playing pickleball is easy and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Setting Up the Court
- Find a pickleball court or set up your own on a badminton or tennis court. Use tape or chalk to mark the boundaries if needed.
- Set up the net so that it is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the middle.
Step 2: Equipment Check
- Make sure you have pickleball paddles and a pickleball (a plastic ball with holes).
Step 3: Serving
- The game starts with a serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball underhand.
- The serve must go diagonally across the net and land in the opponent’s service court.
- Only one serve attempt is allowed, except in the case of a let (when the ball hits the net but lands in the correct service court).
Step 4: Playing the Rally
- After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can hit it in the air. This is called the double bounce rule.
- Players hit the ball back and forth across the net, trying to make their opponents miss or hit the ball out of bounds.
Step 5: Scoring Points
- Points are only scored by the serving team.
- Games are usually played to 11 points, and a team must win by 2 points.
- When the serving team wins a point, the same server continues to serve but switches to the other service court.
Step 6: The Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)
- The kitchen is the 7-foot area on both sides of the net.
- Players are not allowed to hit the ball in the air if they are standing in the kitchen.
- Players can step into the kitchen to hit a ball that has bounced but must exit the zone before hitting the ball in the air again.
Fun Pickleball Strategies and Tips
Here are some strategies and tips to help you improve your pickleball game:
Dinking
- Dinking is a soft shot that lands in your opponent’s kitchen.
- It forces your opponent to hit the ball upwards, making it easier for you to win the point.
Volleys
- Volleys are quick shots taken out of the air before the ball bounces.
- Good volleys keep your opponents on the defensive and help you control the game.
Third Shot Drop
- The third shot drop is a soft shot from the serving team that lands in the opponent’s kitchen.
- This allows the serving team to move up to the net and take control of the game.
Positioning
- Controlling the net is crucial in pickleball.
- Both partners should aim to stand just behind the non-volley line, allowing for aggressive play and quick reactions.
Advanced Pickleball Techniques
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can start to explore advanced techniques:
Spin Shots
- Adding topspin or backspin to your shots can make them more difficult for your opponents to return.
- Practice hitting the ball with different spins to see how it affects the flight and bounce.
Lobs
- Lobs are high, deep shots that push your opponents back to the baseline.
- Use lobs to create space for yourself and disrupt your opponents’ positioning.
Erne Shot
- The Erne shot is an advanced technique where a player jumps around the kitchen to hit a volley.
- This catches opponents off guard and can be very effective if executed correctly.
Pickleball Etiquette
Playing pickleball is not just about winning; it’s also about having fun and being respectful. Here are some important etiquette rules to follow:
Call the Score
- Always call the score before serving. This helps avoid confusion and keeps the game fair.
Respect Your Opponent
- Call close shots fairly and honestly. If you’re not sure, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponent.
Be Courteous
- Be positive and encouraging, even if you’re losing. Good sportsmanship makes the game enjoyable for everyone.
Benefits of Playing Pickleball
Playing pickleball has many benefits, including:
Physical Fitness
- Pickleball provides a great workout, helping you stay fit and healthy.
- It improves cardiovascular health, strength, and agility.
Mental Health
- Playing pickleball can reduce stress and improve your mood.
- It’s a fun way to socialize and make new friends.
Easy to Learn
- Pickleball is easy to learn, making it accessible for people of all ages and skill levels.
- You can start playing and having fun right away.
Conclusion
Pickleball is a fantastic sport that combines the best elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Whether you’re in London or anywhere else, there are plenty of opportunities to play and enjoy this exciting game. So grab a paddle, find a court, and start playing pickleball today!
