Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world — and for good reason. It’s fun, social, and easy to pick up, but challenging to truly master. That combination makes it incredibly addictive.

Yet as a beginner, you’ll quickly run into some surprises. Whether you’ve already played your first rallies or are still thinking about picking up a paddle, here are some things many players wish they knew earlier.

1. Pickleball is more addictive than you think

What starts as “just trying it out” quickly becomes a weekly habit.

Once a week turns into three times, and suddenly you’re joining a club, taking lessons, or signing up for tournaments.

Pickleball offers a mix of movement, fun, and competition that immediately makes you feel welcome and successful. But as you improve, you’ll discover deeper layers in the game: strategy, footwork, technique…

In short: once you catch the pickleball bug, there’s no turning back.

2. You don’t need to be a tennis player to be good

No experience? No problem.

Many people think pickleball is just for tennis players or those with racket sport backgrounds. Not true. Some of the best players have never picked up a tennis racket.

The smaller court, lighter paddle, and slower pace make the game more accessible. Quick reactions, positioning, and smart choices matter more than brute strength.

Have you ever played ping-pong, badminton, or even dodgeball? Then you already have a head start.

3. Invest in a quality paddle from day one

A poor paddle will hold back your progress.

A cheap paddle might seem fine at first, but quality makes a big difference. Cheaper paddles often offer less control, break faster, and make it harder to develop your game.

Brands like SLK by Selkirk offer affordable models designed especially for beginners. They combine comfort, durability, and performance — a smart investment from day one.

4. Court etiquette is important

Not everything is in the official rulebook.

Pickleball isn’t just about winning — it’s about community and atmosphere. Knowing when to rotate in, how to call the score, or when to call a ball out helps you fit in and enjoy the game.

Key tip: never walk across an active court to retrieve a ball. Wait until the point is over. And always be friendly — the pickleball community is warm and welcoming, as long as you are too.

5. Your legs and glutes will feel it

Don’t be fooled by the small court.

Pickleball is intense. The constant lateral movement, bending, reaching, and sprinting works muscles you didn’t even know you had. Your calves, glutes, and paddle arm shoulder will especially get a workout.

So remember to warm up, stretch afterward, build up playing time gradually, and wear proper court shoes — your joints will thank you.

6. There’s more strategy involved than you think

It’s not the hardest hit that wins, but the smartest play.

In the beginning, you just try to hit the ball as hard as possible over the net. But as you progress, you learn that placement, control, and smart play matter much more.

The “soft game” — dinks, drops, and resets — is crucial. Learning when to slow the pace or reset a rally can often be the difference between winning and losing.

Watch pro matches, practice controlled shots, and think like a strategist. It will significantly improve your chances of winning.

Final thought

Pickleball isn’t just a sport — it’s an addictive, social, and challenging hobby that keeps you coming back for more. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll make a strong start and enjoy every minute on the court even more.