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All Things Pickleball

  • Pickleball Court Layout.

    Pickleball Court 101: A Beginner's Guide to Understanding the Court

    Pickleball courts are where the game truly comes to life. This guide covers the essential dimensions, key court areas, and surface types used for indoor and outdoor pickleball. Standard pickleball courts measure 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, while adaptive courts are larger, offering extra space for wheelchair players. Understanding the kitchen (non-volley zone), service areas, and proper net height is crucial for strategic play. Additionally, you can convert tennis courts into pickleball courts or create temporary setups using chalk or tape if dedicated courts aren’t available. You’ll also learn about mini and portable pickleball courts, ideal for practice and impromptu games. For a competitive edge, use high-quality equipment like the 101 Pickleball Zen Control paddle. Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your game, mastering the pickleball court layout is a must. Reach out to us at 101grouppb@gmail.com for more insights.

  • Understanding Pickleball Rankings

    Understanding Pickleball Rankings: What You Need to Know

    Pickleball rankings are essential in determining a player’s current standing based on tournament performances. Unlike ratings, which measure skill levels, rankings show where a player stands in competitions like the PPATour or Minto US Open Pickleball Championships. Rankings are determined by accumulating points through match results, with higher points leading to higher positions. Understanding how rankings work is crucial for players aiming to attract sponsorships, secure better tournament seedings, and achieve recognition. To improve your ranking, compete regularly in tournaments, track your progress, and focus on enhancing weak areas. Use quality equipment like the 101 Pickleball Zen Control paddle for better control and precision. Remember, rankings can fluctuate based on performance, so maintaining consistency is key. Whether you’re aiming for the top or just starting, knowing your rankings will help set clear goals. For more insights, reach out to us at 101group@gmail.com.

  • How to Improve DUPR

    How to Improve Your Pickleball DUPR Rating: Strategies for Success

    Improving your Pickleball DUPR rating takes dedication and a strategic approach. Begin by honing your skills through consistent practice, focusing on footwork, basic strokes, and mastering key shots like serves and the third drop shot. Study your opponent's style to gain an edge, mix up your strategies, and maintain the optimal position on the court. Embrace your competitive spirit by participating in local tournaments and leagues, using every match as a learning experience. Invest in physical fitness to enhance your stamina, and manage stress by staying mentally strong and focused on your goals. Consider joining lessons or clinics to get personalized feedback and further sharpen your skills. Remember, improvement is a journey that takes time and patience—even top players like Ben Johns started at the bottom. With the right mindset and persistence, you can steadily climb the ratings and achieve your goals. Contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com for more insights!

  • How to Serve in Pickleball

    The Power of the Serve: Elevate Your Pickleball Game

    The pickleball serve is more than just the game starter—it can be a game-changer. With the right serve, you can immediately gain an advantage, even earning aces that catch your opponent off-guard. In this guide, explore the basics of pickleball serves, from underhand to drop serves, and how to execute each one effectively. For advanced players, try mixing in powerful forehand drives, topspin, side spin, and the tricky slice serve to keep your opponent guessing. We’ll also share expert tips on stance, grip, and how to choose the right paddle for control and spin, such as the 101 Pickleball Zen Control, the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro, and more. Watching and learning from professional matches can also help elevate your serve strategy. With patience and practice, your serve can become a powerful tool in dominating the court. Contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com for more insights!

  • Pickleball players playing in a court.

    Best Pickleball Gear: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Equipment for 2024

    Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. To truly enjoy the game and elevate your performance, selecting the right gear is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the best pickleball paddles, balls, shoes, and apparel for 2024. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, find out which paddle suits your playing style, the differences between indoor and outdoor balls, and how to select supportive footwear. Explore essential accessories like paddle covers, ball holders, and protective eyewear to enhance your game. Learn what features to look for, such as grip size, paddle weight, and durability, so you can make informed decisions when purchasing your pickleball gear. By understanding your options, you’ll be ready to play with confidence and improve your skills on the court. For more insights, contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com.

  • Pickleball Dink Shot

    Mastering the Dink in Pickleball: Tips and Techniques

    Mastering the dink shot in pickleball is crucial for controlling the pace of the game. This soft, precise shot lands in your opponent’s kitchen, forcing them into a defensive position. Our guide covers essential techniques, like the cross-court dink, and tips for improving control and strategy. Learn how to use the dink shot effectively and why practice and patience are key to mastering this critical move
  • Shaking hands as pickleball etiquette

    Pickleball Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts on the Court

    Pickleball is not just about mastering skills; it’s also about displaying good sportsmanship and adhering to proper etiquette on the court. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, treating others with respect, acknowledging faults, and respecting paddle order are vital. Always greet fellow players, play with different skill levels, and adjust your game to accommodate beginners if you’re more advanced. Respecting the ball—both your own and others—is also essential; safely return stray balls and avoid switching balls with others. Remember, maintaining good etiquette makes the game enjoyable for everyone involved and helps foster positive connections in the community. Be mindful, follow these basic rules, and you’ll become a player everyone wants to partner with. For more information on proper court etiquette, you can contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com. Enjoy the game, be a good sport, and have fun on the court!

  • DUPR - Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating

    Understanding Pickleball Ratings: What DUPR Means

    DUPR, or Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating, is recognized as the most accurate rating system in the pickleball world. Used by top organizations like Carvana PPATour, Major League Pickleball (MLP), and United Pickleball Association (UPA), DUPR categorizes players into skill levels ranging from novice (2.00) to professional (5.00 - 8.00). Your DUPR rating is determined by factors such as match results, opponent ratings, and margin of victory. For new players, a starting rating of 3.5 is applied, with adjustments made after matches. Additionally, DUPR’s reliability score indicates how accurate your rating is based on your match history. To get started, simply sign up on DUPR’s website or app, track your games, and see where you stand among the top players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters. For more details, contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com.

  • Player Transition From Tennis To Pickleball

    From Rackets to Paddles: Tennis Players' Transition to Pickleball

    Many tennis players are making the switch to pickleball, bringing their competitive spirit and experience to this growing sport. Top players like Jack Sock, Sam Querrey, and Genie Bouchard have transitioned to professional pickleball, making a mark with their skills and achievements. Jack Sock, an Olympic gold medalist, and four-time Grand Slam champion, retired from tennis and quickly rose to the top in the pickleball world. Sam Querrey, known for his powerful serves, joined pickleball after retiring in 2022. Donald Young, a former junior tennis prodigy, and Genie Bouchard, a former top-5 tennis player, are also making waves in the sport. Even tennis legend Kim Clijsters has taken an interest in pickleball, investing in a Major League Pickleball team. Discover how these players are redefining their careers in pickleball and the equipment they rely on for success. Contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com for more details.

  • Top Male Pickleball Players

    Top Male Pickleball Players of 2024

    Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the USA, gaining popularity due to its simple rules and beginner-friendly nature. This guide features the top male pickleball players of 2024, including veteran athletes like Ben Johns and newcomers like James Ignatowich and Federico Staksrud. Many of these players transitioned from tennis to pickleball, bringing their skills and determination to dominate the pickleball scene. Learn about their achievements, rankings, and favorite paddles, from Ben Johns' 108 winning streaks to Tyson McGuffin’s instructional clinics. Discover how players like Riley Newman and Julian Arnold have quickly made a name for themselves with their unique styles and techniques. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring pro, this guide provides valuable insights into the top male athletes in professional pickleball. For more information, feel free to reach out to us at 101grouppb@gmail.com.

  • Top Female Pickleball Players

    Top Female Pickleball Players of 2024

    Pickleball is a sport that welcomes players of all genders and ages, providing equal opportunities for all. This guide highlights the top female pickleball players of 2024, from the youngest champion Anna Leigh Waters to experienced athletes like Catherine Parenteau and up-and-coming stars such as Anna Bright and Mary Brascia. Many of these athletes have a background in tennis and bring their unique skills and strategies to the pickleball court. Their rankings, sponsorships, and choice of paddles vary, but they all share a passion for the game. Learn how players like Lea Jansen and Salome Devidze have risen through the ranks with precision and determination. Whether you’re a fan or a player aspiring to go pro, these profiles will inspire and inform you about the leading female athletes shaping the future of pickleball. For more details, contact us at 101grouppb@gmail.com.

  • Tennis and Pickleball

    Comparing Pickleball and Tennis: Similarities and Differences

    Pickleball and tennis share several similarities, such as using paddles or rackets to hit a ball across a net on a court. However, key differences set them apart, making each sport unique. Pickleball courts are smaller than tennis courts, and the game features a non-volley zone (the “kitchen”) that’s absent in tennis. Pickleball uses perforated plastic balls, while tennis employs pressurized rubber balls, with different ball types for various age groups. In terms of scoring, only the serving team can score in pickleball, whereas tennis players score based on rally wins. Serving styles and scoring terminology also differ. Pickleball is considered more beginner-friendly due to its simpler rules and smaller court, while tennis requires more physical stamina. Understanding these differences can help players choose the right sport based on their preferences and skill levels. For more details, reach out at 101grouppb@gmail.com.

  • Pickleball Third Drop Shot

    Beginner’s Guide to Mastering the Third Drop Shot

    Pickleball is an easy-to-learn sport, but mastering it requires control, precision, and practice. One of the most crucial techniques to learn is the third drop shot. It’s a soft, controlled shot made after the initial serve and return, aimed at getting you closer to the net and neutralizing your opponent’s position. To perform it, start in a ready position near the baseline, use a continental grip, and hit the ball upwards towards the opponent’s non-volley zone (NVZ). Ensure the ball’s apex is on your side of the net and avoid hitting it too hard. For beginners, practicing without a paddle first can help master the form. Recommended paddles like the 101 Pickleball Zen Control can significantly enhance control. With patience and practice, you’ll master this essential shot and elevate your pickleball game.

  • Common Injuries in Pickleball

    Pickleball Safety: Avoiding Injuries on the Court

    Pickleball is a low-impact sport, but injuries like falls, strains, and sprains can still happen. Knowing the common accidents and taking preventive measures—such as proper warm-ups, using the right equipment, and following the R-I-C-E method—can minimize risks and keep you playing safely. Whether it's shoulder strains from paddle swings or ankle sprains from sudden pivots, understanding the risks will help you prepare and prevent mishaps. Don't let an injury cut your game short; play smart and stay safe!

  • Pickleball Major Tournaments

    Top Pickleball Tournaments and Leagues: Your Ultimate Guide to Competitions

    Pickleball is rapidly growing, and major tournaments like the USA Pickleball Championships, Minto US Open, and Major League Pickleball (MLP) have become premier events for players at all levels. From amateur competitions to pro divisions, these tournaments offer unique formats such as Single and Double Elimination, Round Robin, and Pool Play. Preparing for these events involves both skill and strategic planning. If you’re new, start with local leagues to build experience before moving to larger stages. Major tournaments also feature special events like clinics and activities led by top players. Ready to test your skills? Explore the top pickleball competitions today!

  • USA Pickleball National Championships

    Pickleball Tournaments: What to Expect and How to Prepare

    Joining a pickleball tournament can be an exciting challenge for players at any skill level. Tournaments are divided into age and skill brackets, ranging from beginner to advanced, and can feature formats like Single or Double Elimination, Round Robin, and Rally Scoring. To prepare, start training months in advance, focus on physical fitness, and practice techniques to handle pressure. Choose the right paddles and wear comfortable, breathable clothing to ensure peak performance. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and bring extra gear. Tournaments are a great way to connect with fellow players, improve your skills, and have fun on the court.

  • Warm Up Exercises for Pickleball

    Pickleball Warm-Ups: Essential Exercises to Enhance Performance

    Proper warm-up exercises are essential for any pickleball player, whether you're a beginner or an advanced competitor. Dynamic stretches like light jogging, lunges, and side-to-side shuffles help increase blood flow, warm up your muscles, and prepare your body for quick movements on the court. Arm circles and leg swings target key muscles used during play, boosting flexibility and preventing injuries. After your match, cooling down with static stretches is just as important, helping to reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery. Incorporate these warm-ups into your routine to elevate your game and ensure a safe, enjoyable playing experience every time.

  • Players Wearing Proper Pickleball Apparel

    Pickleball Apparel Guide: What to Wear on the Court

    Choosing the right apparel for pickleball is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or spandex to keep you cool and dry during play. Men can choose from shirts, polo shirts, or long sleeves paired with comfortable shorts or joggers. Women have options like tank tops, skorts, leggings, and sports bras for proper support and flexibility. Invest in supportive shoes that provide good grip and lateral stability to avoid injuries. Accessories like sweatbands, sunglasses, and visors enhance protection and performance. Whether you shop at local stores or online at Target, Amazon, or Pickleball Central, prioritize comfort and mobility to enjoy your game to the fullest.

  • Players Taking a Pickleball Shot

    Mastering Pickleball: Essential Shots and Techniques for Competitive Play

    Pickleball may be easy to learn, but mastering the game requires skill and technique. Start your journey with essential shots like the underhand serve, deep return, and third shot drop to build a solid foundation. From the precise dink to powerful volleys and strategic topspin, each shot plays a crucial role in controlling the game. Lobs are effective for catching your opponent off-guard, while slices add spin to change the ball’s direction. Success in competitive play comes from understanding when and how to use these shots. With practice and the right equipment—such as lightweight paddles like the Selkirk Vanguard or the 101 Pickleball Zen Control Paddle—you can enhance your performance and dominate the court.

  • People with Disabilities Can Play Adaptive Pickleball

    Adaptive Pickleball: Making the Sport Accessible for Everyone

    Adaptive pickleball is transforming the sport into an inclusive activity for players of all abilities. With modified rules and specialized equipment, pickleball welcomes individuals with mobility challenges, visual and hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities. Courts are often larger, and indoor venues provide better accessibility with ramps and wider entrances. Players use lightweight or quiet paddles, and visual or auditory aids make the game engaging for all. Whether you’re using a wheelchair or adapting the game to suit your needs, adaptive pickleball fosters an environment of fun, fitness, and social interaction. It’s a sport for everyone, where disabilities are no barrier to enjoyment and competition.

  • A couple streaming Pickleball TV

    The Rise of Pickleball Streaming: Where to Watch Live Matches and Broadcasts Online

    Pickleball has taken the sports world by storm, and now you can catch live matches from anywhere! Platforms like Pickleball TV offer free streams, while CBS Sports and ESPN broadcast major tournaments. For on-the-go fans, you can also watch on streaming services like Fire TV, Roku, and Paramount+. Want to stay updated with your favorite players like Ben Johns or Anna Leigh Waters? Follow them on Instagram and X for behind-the-scenes content and upcoming tournament schedules. With so many options available, staying connected to the game has never been easier—whether you’re at home or on the move, pickleball is just a click away.

  • 101 Pickleball Infinity Balance and Zen Control Paddles

    101 Pickleball: High-Quality Affordable Paddles for Power and Control

    101 Pickleball is setting new standards in the sport by offering high-quality paddles at an affordable price. Their Zen Control paddle, made from carbon fiber and a honeycomb core, provides excellent accuracy, control, and durability for precision shots. The Infinity Balance paddle is ideal for players seeking a combination of power and control, making it perfect for aggressive offensive and defensive gameplay. Both paddles feature ergonomic grips for comfort and are lightweight for easy maneuverability. Suitable for beginners and advanced players alike, 101 Pickleball’s paddles ensure top performance without breaking the bank, making them a game-changer in the pickleball world.

  • Health Benefits of Pickleball

    Pickleball for Health: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Playing

    Pickleball is not just a fun, social game—it’s also great for your physical and mental health. It offers a low-impact exercise that strengthens muscles and joints without overstraining them. The sport also provides a cardio workout, improves flexibility, and reduces stress levels. Mentally, pickleball helps boost concentration, memory, and multitasking abilities. The fast-paced nature of the game enhances mind-body coordination and keeps players alert. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile activity for everyone. Whether you’re looking to stay active, connect with others, or just reduce stress, pickleball has something to offer.

  • Pickleball Community Engagement

    Pickleball and Community: Building Connections Through the Sport

    Pickleball is more than just a competitive sport; it’s a unique way to build community connections. Whether played casually or professionally, pickleball encourages social interaction, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages. Recreational games are great for bonding with friends and family, while team-building activities help colleagues break the monotony of work and develop stronger relationships. Tournaments and leagues provide opportunities to meet new people and foster camaraderie through friendly competition. For beginners, lessons and clinics are ideal for learning the game while making new friends. With its social, inclusive nature, pickleball is a sport that goes beyond the court, promoting connections that last a lifetime.

  • Pickleball Courts Near Me

    Best Pickleball Courts Near Me: Top Indoor & Outdoor Locations

    Looking for the best pickleball courts near you? Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, finding the right place to practice is essential. This guide highlights some of the top indoor and outdoor pickleball courts across the United States, including popular locations like Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California, East Naples Community Park in Florida, and Chicken N Pickle, which offers multiple locations nationwide. Many of these courts offer lessons, clinics, and organized play, making them perfect for both casual games and serious practice. With options that cater to all skill levels, you’ll find the perfect court to refine your skills, stay active, and have fun.
  • Pickleball Paddles & Balls.

    Choosing the Right Gear: A Comprehensive Guide to Pickleball Paddles and Balls

    Choosing the right pickleball gear is essential for optimizing your performance and enjoyment of the game. This guide helps you navigate the wide range of paddles and balls available for every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly paddle or an advanced player seeking high-spin control, we break down top brands like Selkirk, JOOLA, Diadem, Franklin, and more. Find detailed insights on the best paddles for power, control, and durability, along with recommendations for indoor and outdoor pickleballs. With our guide, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision, ensuring you have the right tools to elevate your game.

  • Players Playing Pickleball

    Pickleball 101: Rules

    Pickleball is an inclusive and beginner-friendly sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played on a 20x44 feet court with a 36-inch high net, it has unique rules like the non-volley zone ("kitchen") and the double-bounce rule, making it strategic and exciting. To get started, all you need is a paddle and a perforated ball, with different options available for indoor and outdoor play. Serving is underhand and must go diagonally across the court, and only the serving team can score points. The game is typically played to 11 points, win by 2, making it fast-paced and competitive. With simple equipment and easy-to-follow rules, pickleball is accessible for all ages and skill levels.

  • modern day pickleball 2024 NYC

    How Pickleball is played in 2024

    Pickleball in 2024 is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court with a modified tennis net, using paddles and a perforated plastic ball. To start, the serve is made underhand, ensuring easy play for beginners. The game’s unique rules, like the double-bounce rule and the non-volley zone (also known as the “kitchen”), create dynamic rallies that keep the action fast-paced and engaging. Players must allow the ball to bounce once on each side before volleys are permitted, making strategy key in winning a match. The game’s simplicity and inclusivity continue to draw in enthusiasts of all ages, making it a sport for everyone.

  • People playing a doubles pickleball game

    Pickleball: The Basics You Need to Know

    Pickleball is a dynamic sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Created in 1965 using leftover equipment, it has since grown into one of the fastest-growing sports globally. Played with a paddle and a plastic ball, pickleball is accessible to all ages and skill levels, making it ideal for both casual fun and serious competition. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor play, the rules are easy to grasp, and courts can often be adapted from tennis or badminton setups. With its social, low-impact nature, pickleball is a great way to stay active while enjoying a game that's easy to pick up and hard to put down.

  • A pickleball paddle with pickleballs.

    The Fascinating Origin of Pickleball: From Backyard Fun to Global Phenomenon

    Pickleball, a sport that has captivated players worldwide, originated in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Conceived by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum as a backyard game to entertain their children, it quickly evolved into a beloved pastime. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball is accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Learn about its history, growth, and the community it fosters, along with tips for players of all skill levels.
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Latest Articles

Latest news and articles for 101 Pickleball!

  • Brackets with a trophy, and pickeball paddles and balls

    The Ultimate Guide to Pickleball Brackets and Formats

    Planning a pickleball tournament requires careful consideration of brackets and formats. Brackets organize matches and determine progression, while formats define the overall structure and rules. Factors like the number of participants, time and court availability, tournament goals, player preferences, and flexibility should be considered when choosing the right structure. By understanding these key elements, you can create a successful and enjoyable pickleball tournament for all participants.
  • JOOLA Gen 3 paddles with a banned sign

    The Joola Ban: A Deep Dive into the Controversy

    The pickleball world was shocked by the recent ban of JOOLA Gen 3 paddles. Despite their popularity and high-quality features, these paddles were deemed non-compliant with USA Pickleball's equipment standards. This caused significant disruption for players and retailers. Find USA Pickleball-approved alternatives like the JOOLA Perseus Mod TA-15 or 101 Pickleball Phantom. Stay informed about the latest updates on this controversy and shop our selection of approved pickleball paddles.
  • Different pickleball grips

    The Grip To Win: A Guide to Pickleball Grips and Overgrips

    Choosing the right pickleball grip and overgrip is essential for comfort, control, and performance. Discover the different types of grips, factors to consider when choosing, and top overgrip recommendations.

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