Pickleball doubles: positions and strategy for beginners
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Pickleball is played much more in doubles than in singles. And in doubles you win more with position than with power. These are the basic ideas so you don't give away points.
The court in two lines
The court is 44 feet (13.41 m) long by 20 feet (6.10 m) wide. Two zones matter:
- The kitchen: 7 feet (2.13 m) on each side of the net, no volleys.
- The back: behind the kitchen, where you start after the serve.
Basic positions
- Serve and return from the back. The first two balls have to bounce before volleying.
- Move up to the net. After the two-bounce rule, both players try to reach the kitchen line.
- Side by side. Both at the same height, each covering their side.
- Middle ball. Agree who takes it before you start: it's usually whoever has it on their forehand.
Four strategy rules
- Move up as soon as you can. Whoever controls the net controls the point.
- Play toward the middle. It creates doubt between the opponents.
- Patience at the kitchen. Dink until a high ball arrives. See what the dink is.
- Communication. "Yours," "mine," "out." It's what avoids losing the most points.
Typical mistakes
- Staying at the back too long.
- Stepping into the kitchen when volleying.
- Hitting hard at the first opponent instead of at their feet.
- Not deciding who takes the middle ball.
And after the match
Playing doubles means a lot of lateral movement and stopping: take care of the gear that carries you (shoes and insoles) and give your body its recovery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best position in pickleball doubles?
Next to the kitchen line, without stepping on it, with your partner beside you.
Can you play doubles without knowing the rules?
Yes: you learn by playing. See the rules explained before your first match.
How big is a pickleball court?
44 feet (13.41 m) long by 20 feet (6.10 m) wide, the same for singles and doubles.
Keep reading
If you're one paddle short for the fourth player, have a look at the ACE paddle.
