Pickleball for Beginners — Everything You Need to Know
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world. If you've never played, this complete beginner's guide will have you ready to step on court at Play Matrix today.
Pickleball started as a small sport in the United States and is now one of the fastest-growing games in the world. In Bangalore it has grown very fast, and for good reason. It is easier to learn than tennis, more social than badminton, and good fun once you start.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a court the size of a badminton court. It uses a solid paddle (bigger than a table-tennis paddle, smaller than a tennis racket) and a plastic ball with holes. Points are played to 11 and you must win by 2. Matches are usually best of 3 games.
The court and equipment
The court is 20 × 44 feet, the same as a doubles badminton court. The net is 36 inches high at the sides and 34 inches in the middle. Equipment is provided at Play Matrix, so you do not need to buy anything for your first session.
The kitchen — pickleball's most important rule
The non-volley zone, called 'the kitchen', is the 7-foot area on each side of the net. You cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing in the kitchen. This rule stops aggressive net play and is what makes pickleball strategic and fair for all ages.
New player tip
Most beginners lose points because they step into the kitchen while volleying. Learn this rule first — it is the most common mistake our coaches correct.
Serving in pickleball
Serves must be underhand, below the waist, and diagonally cross-court. The ball must clear the non-volley zone (kitchen). Only the serving team can score points. This is different from most racket sports and means rallies can last longer in close matches.
Start playing at Play Matrix
We have full-size pickleball courts at our Padmanabhanagar facility. Paddles and balls are provided. Complete beginners are welcome — our coaches run short beginner courses that get you playing real points in about two sessions. WhatsApp us to book.
Ready to play at Play Matrix?
Open every day, 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM. Padmanabhanagar, South Bangalore.
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Coaches and sports enthusiasts at Padmanabhanagar, South Bangalore. Updated: February 2026.