Welcome to the exciting world of pickleball! Whether you're new to the game or looking to brush up on your skills, understanding the rules is key to enjoying the sport. In this post, we'll delve into the basic rules of pickleball, and introduce you to two of our most popular paddles: the beginner-friendly "Neo Line One," and the more advanced "Pro Line Energy." Serving Up Pickleball Rules Pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is an accessible sport for all ages and abilities. The game is played on a badminton-sized court with a perforated plastic ball and a paddle that's larger than a ping-pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racquet. The basic rules are simple: Serving: The serve is made underhand from behind the baseline, diagonally to the opponent's service court. Importantly, only the serving team can score points. Double-Bounce Rule: When the ball is served, the receiving team must let it bounce before returning, and then the serving team must let it bounce before returning, thus two bounces. Non-Volley Zone: This is a seven-foot area on both sides of the net, commonly referred to as the "kitchen." Players cannot volley the ball while standing in this zone. Scoring: A pickleball game is typically played to 11, 15, or 21 points. The winning team must lead by at least 2 points. Points can only be scored by the serving team. Faults: Faults in pickleball result in a loss of serve or point. Faults occur when a ball is hit out of bounds, doesn't clear the net, is volleyed before a bounce on each side, or if a player volleys the ball from the non-volley zone. Double Play: In doubles play, both players on a team serve before the serve shifts to the opposing team. However, at the start of each new game, only one player from the serving team gets to serve before the serve shifts to the opposing team. Service Sequence: In doubles play, the player on the right side (even side) of the court serves first. If a point is scored, the server moves to the left side of the court (odd side) and continues to serve. This alternation continues until a fault is made. Line Calls: A ball is considered "in" if any part of it touches the line marking the boundary. A player can call the lines on their side of the court, but the opponent can appeal to the referee if one is present. Beginner’s Choice: Neo Line One Paddle If you're just starting your pickleball journey, the Neo Line One paddle is the perfect partner. Affordable yet crafted with premium-like materials, this paddle features a wide-cell polypropylene core that maximizes absorption and control. Its raw carbon fiber surface, reminiscent of high-quality TORAY T700 technology, provides unbeatable precision. With the Neo Line One, mastering the basics of pickleball becomes an enjoyable challenge. Advanced Play: Pro Line Energy Paddle For more seasoned players ready to enhance their game, the Pro Line Energy paddle is an excellent choice. This paddle is the first to incorporate a dynamic Kevlar surface, a blend of Kevlar and Carbon Fiber, offering durability and power like never before. The Pro Line Energy paddle also features an elongated handle, perfect for double-handed backhands, and an optimized mass distribution for balance and flexibility. Step up your game and command the court with the Pro Line Energy. In Conclusion Understanding the rules of pickleball is the first step to falling in love with this exciting sport. And no matter where you are in your pickleball journey, Pickleball Apes has the perfect paddle to help you conquer the court. Explore our range of paddles today and find your perfect match. Remember, whether you're wielding the beginner-friendly Neo Line One or the advanced Pro Line Energy, the most important rule of pickleball is to have fun! Stay tuned to our blog for more tips, tricks, and pickleball insights. See you on the court! Keywords: Pickleball rules, Pickleball Apes, Neo Line One, Pro Line Energy, beginner pickleball paddle, advanced pickleball paddle, pickleball tips