What Every Beginner Should Know Before Their First Pickleball Lesson

What Every Beginner Should Know Before Their First Pickleball Lesson

Starting pickleball is exciting… but your first lesson can feel a little intimidating if you don’t know what to expect. I work with beginners every week, and most players show up with the same questions and worries.

Here’s everything you should know before stepping on the court for your first pickleball lesson.

1. You Don’t Need Experience to Start

You don’t have to “be athletic” or “know the rules” before taking a lesson.

Your coach (hi 👋) will teach you the basics:

• grip

• ready stance

• footwork

• positioning

• scoring

• etiquette

You only need comfortable shoes and a willingness to learn.

2. The Rules Are Simpler Than You Think

The basics we cover on day one:

• underhand serve

• double bounce rule

• kitchen rules

• scoring to 11

• side-outs

• where to stand and why

If you don’t understand everything right away, don’t stress — it becomes second nature quickly.

3. It’s Not About Power, It’s About Control

Almost every beginner tries to swing too big.

Your first lesson focuses on compact movements and soft hands so you actually keep the ball in play.

The power comes later.

4. Footwork Is More Important Than the Swing

I teach players how to:

• balance

• move efficiently

• stay low

• stay ready between shots

• transition from the baseline to the kitchen

Good feet = faster improvement.

5. Everyone Starts Somewhere

Pickleball players are friendly. You’re not being judged.

Every player on the court was once confused by scoring or accidentally stood in the wrong spot.

Relax. Learn. Have fun.

Final Takeaway

Your first pickleball lesson sets the foundation for your entire game. Come open-minded, expect to learn a lot, and be ready to laugh at yourself a few times—because that’s part of the fun.