Pickleball feels surprisingly familiar to ping-pong players: a solid paddle, soft touch, spin and quick hands at the net. Here is what carries over, what is new (the court, the serve, the two-bounce rule), and how to choose a first paddle for you or for the whole family.

The kitchen — pickleball's non-volley zone — is the most misunderstood seven feet in the sport. Understanding exactly what the rule prohibits, and why, will sharpen your court positioning and eliminate the foot faults that cost points at every level of play.