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Long-time pickleball watcher but first-time player? If so, maybe you’re wondering how to get started playing this popular sport. “The best way is by taking a lesson or clinic and having someone teach you about the proper technique,” says Spencer Janes. Janes would know, as the co-owner of The Jar Pickleball Club in Toronto, a new facility for pickleballers in the city.
From there, he suggests looking for similarly skilled players to play with. “If you’re a beginner and you step on a court with advanced players smashing the ball at you constantly, you’re not going to grow,” he says.
If you’re also feeling a little unequipped to play this season, here are a few items you can consider investing in to help your career as an amateur pickleballer.
A good set of paddles is the very basic you want to have to play this sport, and this best-selling set (which comes with a backpack) has lightweight paddles that are easy to hold. One reviewer even described them as “non-slippy.”
If you’re still new to pickleball and would like to get some driveway practice time, this set includes paddles, balls (indoor/outdoor) and a waterproof carrying bag to cover all your basic game needs. The set is a good fit for newbies or intermediate players.
While you love pickleball, maybe you’re also a fan of racquet sports in general. If so, this set that’s quick to put together comes with all you need for a game of pickleball but also tennis, badminton and even the non-racquet sport of volleyball.
Pickleball is fun but what about 4 square pickleball? While this net converts to a regular pickleball net, you can also switch things up to play the offshoot game of 4 square pickleball.
Janes says learning the game and particularly the strategy of the game is key to enjoying the sport and while a lesson is likely the best way to get started, a little light pickleball-themed reading on the side could help your game.
This desktop version of the game, which includes a mat, a one-inch pickleball, a three-inch tall net and two mini racquets, is a cute gift idea for the gamer in your life. It also comes with a 32-page book on the sport’s rules, history, and even trivia. Pre-order your kit now – it’s available early May.
If your back doesn’t love bending over to pick up balls that got past you, this handy retriever attaches to your racquet and will help give you a bit more reach to avoid the full bend.
Can’t hurt sometimes to have some extra balls around and these, which are USA Pickleball-approved, come in a three, 12 or 100 pack even in three colors (yellow, pink, and ember).
This stylish sling-style bag can be home to racquets, balls, water bottles, and more when you’re headed to a game. Much like a baseball bag, it also comes with a small hook to hang onto the fence and keep it off the ground.
Want to show off just how much you love the game of pickleball? These cute insulated drink cozies are a statement accessory to tuck your energy drink into courtside or a beer post-game at home.
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