So, what is pickleball? Pickleball is fast becoming one of the most popular racket sports in the world. It’s a fun, low-impact sport, which is easy to pick up, making it really social and suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Pickleball brings together the best elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis and can be enjoyed as both singles and doubles.
How is a pickle ball court different?
Pickleball is played on a court the same size as a badminton court (44ft x 20ft). There are right and left service areas and a non-volley zone that runs the full length of the net. This is called “the kitchen”. Whilst the court is similar to badminton, the net is positioned closer to tennis height.
What equipment is needed for pickleball?
Pickleball is played with paddles that have a solid face – like table tennis, rather than rackets with strings. The ball is plastic and full of holes. If you book a court at the Manor & Ashbury Resorts all equipment will be provided for you.
Looking for a ‘Pickleball court near me’?
The Manor & Ashbury Resorts are pleased to offer pickleball courts for all resort guests, as well as offering the courts for hire to locals. A new pickleball club will also be starting soon at the Ashbury resort. For more details please click here
If you want to improve your pickleball skills, why not try out a dedicated pickleball coaching break at the Manor Resort? Click here for more information.
Pickleball: What is it that makes it so popular?
The smaller court size means that pickleball is far more enjoyable for beginners, than tennis. There is less running about, and players are closer to each other. Former tennis pro Rick Witsken states ‘With tennis, players might need a few lessons before they can successfully hit the ball back and forth three times in a rally. But with pickleball, you’re doing that in the first five minutes. And the longer the rally, the more the excitement builds, and the more fun it becomes’.
Top tip for beginners?
Don’t take big swings! If you’ve played tennis before you might be inclined to take a big back swing. However, due to the smaller court size, and the fact that the pickleball equipment is ‘bouncier’, you are better to take short swings and try to control ball placement. This will improve with practice.
