Pickleball is played with a paddle-like instrument and a small plastic ball with a small opening on it. This makes it a great game for all the players, young and old. Even better, you can easily play pickleball at backyard. It is a fun game that is rather easy as it is categorized into tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
It is such a way to keep oneself play pickleball in the backyard, an easy, fun way to get more active with family and friends. No matter how well one plays, creating a backyard setup makes playing at any time of the day or evening easy. Plus, it is an affordable, uncomplicated way to bring excitement into your outdoor space.
Set Up Your Backyard Pickleball Court
First, when installing a backyard pickleball court, you need to find a place for it. Some of the best places are smooth, even, and lacking big rocks or uneven spots on the ground. While the regular size of a pickleball court is 20 by 44 feet, you can change these measures in the backyard games since only some have a big space in their yard. Just make sure there is enough room around the court for comfortable movement.
Net Setup
If you choose to use a portable net, make sure to tie it down with rope to the ground so that it will not fall over. The net option works just fine, providing the tarp is tensioned enough to hold the ball from rolling underneath.
Strategies and Techniques for Backyard Play
Learning the basic techniques is all-important to the full enjoyment of the game. Begin with the practice of your grip: hold your paddle in a relaxed fashion with your thumb and index finger controlling the angle of the paddle. For the forehand shot, the paddle must be placed only below the waist, swinging upward; the backhand should have your arm straight, swinging across your body. Practicing these strokes will help you get comfortable with the game.
Game Strategies
Positioning does make a world of difference in backyard pickleball. When playing singles, try to stay closer to the centerline so that both sides can be covered equally. In doubles, communicate with your partner and decide who takes which. More often than not, it is advisable to stay closer to the net because this gives you more control over the returns and volleys. Also, be in control of the tempo. Try to keep your shots constant and change the pace so as to keep your opponent guessing.
Practice Drills
More practice will get you better. Here are a few drills one can practice in his backyard.
- One of the most successful solo drills is the "wall bounce" drill, which involves hitting the ball against a wall repeatedly and paying attention to holding it at a regular height and angle.
- Volleyball drills with a partner or partners, volleying with one another without letting the ball hit the ground. This will help your hand-eye coordination, and you can practice different types of shots, such as speed and angle. It is simple drills like these that will help increase your percentage of accuracy and quicken your reaction time.
Safety Tips for Backyard Pickleball
Pickleball is fun, but it will also be worth mentioning some safety to avoid being injured.
Safe Playing Surface
Ensure the playing surface is clean and dry. Wet or slippery surfaces may be one of the causes of accidents. Clear off all debris, including rocks, sticks, and other objects, from the playing field where one is going to play. Grass can be laid out; watch for any uneven spots that may impede balance.
Injury Prevention
A good way to avoid sprains and strains is through warming up. Spend a few minutes stretching your legs, arms, and shoulders before playing. Keeping your knees slightly bent and using light movements throughout the game is another way to reduce the risk of injury. Also, avoid overexerting yourself in the game, especially for a first-timer.
Protective Gear
Consider protective equipment if you need it. Wrist guards are particularly advisable to beginners; they provide support to the wrists and prevent sprains and strains. For backyard pickleball, it is necessary to have strong shoes so that while playing, you will not be tripping. Properly fitted shoes can be all that comes between a perfect game and disaster, especially when the playing field is far from ideal.
Conclusion
Besides the ease of staying fit and socializing with backyard pickleball, you improve your skills. After a few easy steps of setting up your court and some basic strategies, you are ready to go, playing backyard pickleball like a professional. Be it casual fun or serious practice, Pickleball promises enjoyment right in your backyard. Keep safety in mind, and practice on a regular basis.
