Learn to Play - Pickleball Rookie

Demystifying Pickleball: Your Top 14 Questions Answered (Before You Even Hit the Court!)

November 20, 2025September 16, 2025 by Drew Pierce

Pickleball is a beginner-friendly sport that combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Played on a smaller court with a paddle and plastic ball, it is famous for its simple rules—like the underhand serve and “two-bounce” rule—making it accessible and fun for all ages and fitness levels.

So, you’ve heard the buzz. Pickleball. It’s everywhere! Your neighbors are playing it, your local community center just added courts, and even professional athletes are getting in on the action. But maybe you’re feeling a little lost in the sauce, wondering what all the fuss is about. Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

We’ve compiled the 14 most frequently asked questions from curious newcomers like yourself, along with clear, concise, and fun answers to get you up to speed. By the time you finish this, you’ll be ready to grab a paddle and confidently step onto the court!

Beginner Pickleball Drills: Essential Exercises to Elevate Your Game

November 20, 2025July 2, 2025 by Drew Pierce

Two pickleball players demonstrating a dinking drill in the non-volley zone

To elevate your game, beginners should focus on four core drills: Dinking (for soft control), Volleys (for quick net reactions), Groundstrokes (for baseline consistency), and Serve/Return placement. Practice these weekly to build muscle memory, improve footwork, and develop the consistency needed to win matches.

Pickleball has taken the world by storm, and if you’re new to the court, you’re likely eager to improve your skills. While playing games is undoubtedly the most fun way to learn, incorporating targeted drills into your routine can dramatically accelerate your progress. This article will guide you through essential pickleball drills designed specifically for beginners, helping you build a solid foundation and confidence on the court. If you’re just starting your pickleball journey and need a refresher on the basics, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide: What Is Pickleball?

How to Handle a Pickleball Ball Hog

November 20, 2025March 22, 2024 by Drew Pierce

When you’re trying to enjoy a fun game of pickleball, there’s nothing more frustrating than a ball hog teammate who insists on taking every shot, even ones clearly meant for you. Instead of fun rallies, points are over quickly with the ball hog going for shots they had no business going for. We’ve all been there. Personally, there have been times where I will mutter to myself the whole way home that I should have taken control of the situation. So, how can you handle this tricky on-court scenario? We have a few ideas!

How to Move From a 3.5 to 4.0 Pickleball Rating

November 20, 2025March 11, 2024 by Drew Pierce

It’s a common refrain throughout pickleball, advancing from a 3. 5 to a 4.0 pickleball rating.

While many folks, including yours truly, can consistently win games at local open play sessions against other 3.5 players, we struggle to take that next step up. But there are a few paths you can follow to get your game over the hump. Here’s a look at some of the keys that helped propel my progression.

How to Stay Light on Your Feet During Pickleball

November 20, 2025March 7, 2024 by Drew Pierce

If you feel like your feet are glued to the court when playing pickleball, you’re not alone. Many players, especially those new to the sport, struggle with being light and agile on their feet. This issue, often referred to as “concrete feet,” can significantly hinder your ability to react quickly and get into position for shots. However, you can overcome this challenge with the right techniques and exercises and take your pickleball game to new heights. Here are some tips to help you stay light on your feet when playing pickleball.

How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle With a Finger-Up Grip

November 20, 2025March 4, 2024 by Drew Pierce

I don’t play ping pong often, but when I do, I place my index finger on the face of the paddle with a finger-up grip. So perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised that this habit of extending my finger north of the grip carried over to pickleball.

Many pickleball players view this as an unorthodox or even improper way to hold the paddle, but I’ve stuck with it for some time now, and it’s been effective, specifically at the non-volley zone line.

However, the grip comes at a price.

When Your Pickleball Tournament Does Not Go As Expected

November 20, 2025December 21, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Approaching Nassau Coliseum to play the Rip It Winter Invitational Pickleball Tournament felt like something special.

And then I entered the building, and reality set in.

I walked through a metal detector.

Was shown the makeshift concrete courts in the basement.

Endured start-time delays.

Not to mention the crazy distracting fire alarm that went off mid-match.

Let’s just say it was a learning experience. 🙂

8 Lessons From a Year on the Pickleball Court

November 20, 2025December 7, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Deep into my second year of playing pickleball, I proudly report that I have not experienced a sophomore slump! However, some lessons took longer to sink in than I would have hoped. Today, I share those with you, hoping you learn from my stubbornness and evolve your game quicker than I did.