Heard the word pickleball everywhere lately and wondering what the hype’s all about?
You’re not alone — pickleball has exploded in popularity across the UK and beyond. What started as a fun paddle game played in driveways is now one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, have fun, or join something social and low-impact, pickleball might just be your next obsession.
Here’s your no-fluff, high-level guide to everything a beginner needs to know.
🏓 What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a racket sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
It’s played on a court roughly half the size of a tennis court, using solid paddles and a perforated plastic ball (like a wiffle ball). You can play singles or doubles, and it’s just as much fun competitively as it is casually.
Think: less running than tennis, more laughs than squash.
💥 Why Is It So Popular?
It’s easy to learn – You don’t need previous racket sport experience.
It’s social – Games are quick and fun, so it’s perfect for meeting people.
It’s accessible – Great for all ages and fitness levels.
It burns calories – Without you noticing, because you’re having fun.
It’s growing fast – Courts are popping up everywhere, especially across the UK in gyms, parks, and sports halls.
🧠 The Basics You Need to Know
Court Size
20 x 44 feet (smaller than tennis)
You serve underarm cross-court
There’s a “no-volley zone” called the kitchen (yes, really)
Scoring
Only the serving team can score
Games are played to 11, win by 2
Gear
Paddle: lighter than a tennis racket
Ball: plastic, with holes
Shoes: any court trainer will do to start
🔑 Beginner Tips to Get You Started
- Start with doubles – More forgiving and easier to cover the court
- Learn the kitchen rule early – No volleys in the non-volley zone
- Focus on control, not power – Dinks win games
- Watch a few matches online – Learn the rhythm
- Don’t take it too seriously – You’ll improve fast just by playing
📍Where Can You Play?
In the UK, pickleball is booming. Look for:
Leisure centres and gyms (David Lloyd, PureGym, and others are adding courts)
Local sports halls
Outdoor converted tennis courts
Meetup groups and beginner sessions
Not sure where to start? Sites like PickleballEngland.org have a court finder for the UK.
🧠 Is Pickleball Right for You?
If you’re looking for:
A low-impact way to stay active
A social sport to meet people
A fun way to build fitness without the gym slog
Then yes, it’s for you.
You don’t need to be “sporty” to enjoy pickleball — just curious and up for a laugh. And who knows? You might just get hooked.
🚀 Final Word: Try It Before It Goes Mainstream
This isn’t just a passing trend. Pickleball is growing fast in the UK — and now’s the perfect time to get involved while it’s still fresh, welcoming, and community-driven.
If Unleashed Performance ever adds a court (👀), you’ll be the first to know.