Since ancient times, racquet sports have been a mainstay of physical activity, giving players of all ages and abilities a pleasant and competitive outlet.
However, are you familiar with paddleball and pickleball? Although a racquet and a ball are used in both of these games, they each put a distinctive twist on the traditional racquet sport formula.
To fully explain the differences between paddleball and pickleball, we will go into great detail in this blog on their histories, gear, rules, and games.
Are you prepared now? Let's start now!
What is Pickleball
Pickleball is a relatively new sport that has been around for only a few decades. It was created in 1965 by three fathers looking for a new sport for their families to play.
They combined elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis to create Pickleball. Initially, Pickleball was played with a perforated plastic ball and paddles made from badminton rackets.
It was played on a badminton court using the same rules as tennis but with a shorter net.
Today, Pickleball is played with a composite paddle and a lighter ball similar to a Wiffle ball.
Despite its humble beginnings, Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years and it is the fastest-growing sport in America.
It's a fun and easy-to-learn game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, making it a popular alternative to other racquet sports like tennis or paddle tennis.
What is Paddleball
Paddleball is a racquet sport that has two distinct variations, each with its own set of rules and court dimensions.
One-Wall Paddleball
It involves hitting a ball off a single wall using a rubber ball and wooden paddles, played with two or four players. The court is 34’x20’ and the game is regulated by the United States Paddleball Association.
Four-Wall Paddleball
Is played in an enclosed court with a ceiling and is similar to indoor racquetball. The court is 40’x20’ and is split into different zones. The game is played with a racquetball but using a wooden paddle and is regulated by the National Paddleball Association. It is more popular in Michigan and Wisconsin.
Note: Padel Tennis is a sport often referred to as paddleball, but it is different and it uses tennis balls.
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Paddleball vs. Pickleball - What’s the Difference
Hey there! If you're interested in the differences between paddleball and pickleball, then you're in the right place!
These two sports may seem similar, but they do have some distinct differences.
Let's start with the court size.
Court
Let me tell you about two fun and exciting paddleball and pickleball courts.
The paddleball court is an enclosed space, much like a racquetball court, and measures 34 feet wide by 20 feet long.
Sometimes, it can also be played on a one-wall outdoor court that is 20 feet by 34 feet 7 inches.
On the other hand, the pickleball court has a little bit of a different setup. It is more similar to a tennis court and measures 22 feet wide by 40 feet long, with a net running down the center.
However, what sets it apart is the "non-volley zone," a 7-foot deep area on both sides of the net where players can't make a volley shot.
Ball Size and Design
Let's talk about the balls used in paddleball and pickleball.
The ball used in paddleball is usually a small, soft rubber ball. But it's also possible to play racquetball or even tennis ball!
On the other hand, pickleball uses a different kind of ball - a hollow plastic ball that is larger than a tennis ball but smaller than a softball.
Some folks even call it a "Wiffle ball." So, as you can see, both games have their own unique ball design and size!
Scoring
Now let's talk about scoring in paddleball and pickleball.
If you're playing one-wall paddleball, the game can be played to either 15, 21, or 25 points.
But if you're playing four-wall paddleball, the game is usually played to 7-11 points.
As for pickleball scoring, the game is played to 11 points and the winner needs to have a lead of 2 points over their opponent.
Serving Style
Let me tell you about the serving style in paddleball and pickleball. In paddleball, the serving rules are more relaxed.
Players only get one opportunity to serve and they can serve in any manner they choose.
In contrast, pickleball has a more structured approach to serving. Players are only allowed to serve once and must do so underhand.
Furthermore, the ball must not touch the non-volley zone during the serve.
So there you have it! Both paddleball and pickleball are great games, but they have unique characteristics that make them different from each other.
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A Final Word
Well, folks, it's time to put the debate to rest - pickleball vs paddleball, what's the real difference?
Sure, they may seem like the same game but with a closer look, you'll find they have their own unique quirks.
The court size, ball size and design, scoring system, and serving style are all different, making each sport its own beast.
So, if you're torn between which one to play, take some time to try them both out and see which one speaks to you.
Just remember, no matter which one you choose, you're in for a good time!
Maybe we'll be writing articles on pickleball vs paddle tennis soon. So, stay tuned to ReviewRotuine page!
