Indoor Pickleball for Beginners: Rules, Gear, and Tournaments 2025

If you’re like me, pickleball isn’t just something to do on weekends—it’s a way of life. It has that perfect mix of excitement, strategy, and fun that keeps us coming back.

But let’s face it, outdoor courts aren’t always an option. Rain, snow, strong winds? No problem—indoor pickleball is here to save the day!

In this guide, I’m diving into all the nitty-gritty details you need—from the essential rules to the best gear picks and my very own pro tips.

So grab your paddle, get comfy, and let’s make those gym lights your new favorite pickleball hotspot. Trust me, once you try it, you might just fall in love with the game all over again.

Indoor Pickleball Rules and Regulations

Alright, so here’s the scoop on indoor pickleball! If you’ve played outside, you already know the basics, but there are a few indoor twists to keep in mind.

Let’s break it all down so you’re ready to hit the court like a pro.

Official Indoor Pickleball Court Dimensions

First things first: the court size doesn’t change just because you’re indoors. It’s the same 20 by 44 feet, with that 7-foot kitchen (or non-volley zone) on each side of the net.

So if you’re used to playing outside, you’ll feel right at home!

But here’s where it gets interesting: the floor. Indoor courts are usually made of wood or plastic, which means the ball bounces differently than it does on an outdoor surface.

On these smooth indoor floors, the ball moves quicker and doesn’t bounce as high, so get ready for some fast-paced action.

You’ll need to be on your toes to keep up with the slick surfaces!

Scoring Rules

When it comes to scoring, indoor pickleball is just like the outdoor game. You’re still aiming to hit 11 points (but remember, you gotta win by two).

Only the team that’s serving can score, and you alternate servers until someone messes up and causes a fault.

One thing I love about indoor play is the consistent net height. No wonky outdoor winds to mess things up, so it’s a stable 36 inches on the sides and 34 inches in the center.

This makes indoor games faster and often more intense. Quick rallies? Yes, please!

Faults and Violations in Indoor Pickleball

Faults are pretty much the same inside or out—like hitting the ball out of bounds, not clearing the net, or stepping into the kitchen during a volley.

But be warned: indoor lighting can sometimes play tricks on you.

I’ve been there! Between the lighting and the quickness of the ball on the indoor floor, it’s easy to accidentally step into the kitchen or hit the net without even realizing it.

So, stay sharp!

Tournament Rules for Indoor Pickleball

Indoor pickleball tournaments are a whole other level. The rules are mostly the same, but indoor venues might add a few specific rules depending on the gym or facility.

One thing’s for sure: these games are fast.

Thanks to the slick floors and lightweight indoor balls, the pace can feel intense—so make sure you’re warmed up and ready to react!

And don’t forget about the lighting and acoustics. Indoor courts can be loud and bright, which can mess with your focus if you’re not prepared.

Practicing in different gyms or indoor spaces can help you get used to how the ball moves and sounds.

Trust me, knowing how to handle those slick surfaces and bright lights can give you an edge in tournament play.

Essential Indoor Pickleball Gears

Alright, gear up, pickleball friends! Playing indoors means it’s time to talk about the right gear for smooth courts, bright lights, and fast action.

From paddles that give you precision to shoes that keep you steady, here’s everything you need to make your indoor pickleball game unbeatable.

Pickleball Paddles: Power Meets Precision

When it comes to indoor play, your paddle is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s your best friend on the court.

Since indoor courts are smooth and fast, you’ll need a paddle that gives you both control and a bit of pop.

This is the indoor pickleball paddle I rely on and have thoroughly tested through regular play.

Now, here’s the tip: go for a lighter paddle indoors. With no wind to deal with, you don’t need to muscle your shots as much, so focus on accuracy.

Try paddles with a soft face to help absorb those quick hits while still allowing you to place the ball exactly where you want it. If you’re not sure where to start, check out my post on how to pick the Right Pickleball Paddle for a detailed breakdown of paddle features and how they affect your game.

Indoor Pickleball Balls: It’s All in the Holes

Indoor balls are the undercover heroes of indoor pickleball. The biggest difference from outdoor balls?

The holes! Indoor balls have larger holes, making them lighter and easier to control.

That means you have more time to react, which can be a total game-changer on a fast court.

Some top picks for indoor balls are the Jugs Indoor Pickleball and the Onix Fuse Indoor Ball. Both are great for consistent bounces and predictable flight.

Give each a try—you might find one suits your style better than the other. It’s like finding the perfect partner!

Shoes and Apparel: Stay Cool and Keep Your Grip

Okay, let’s talk shoes. Indoor courts can be slick, so make sure you grab a pair with great grip that won’t leave marks on the floor.

Look for brands like Asics, Nike, or K-Swiss that make shoes specifically for indoor sports like pickleball and volleyball.

As for what to wear, go with lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes. Gyms can get hot fast, and you’ll want to stay comfortable through all those intense rallies.

Also, don’t forget wristbands and headbands—they’re lifesavers when it comes to keeping sweat out of your eyes and your grip steady!

Other Must-Have Accessories

Here are a few bonus items that’ll make indoor pickleball a breeze:

• Pickleball Bag: Keep your gear organized and ready to go. You don’t want to be rummaging around for your paddle when it’s game time!
• Extra Paddle Grip: If you’re like me and sweat a lot, a good grip is key. Look for something tacky that gives you control during those quick exchanges.
• Portable Net and Court Tape: Got a big space, like a garage or basement? You can turn it into your personal pickleball court with a portable net and some tape for marking the lines. It’s like having a mini court wherever you want it!

And don’t forget the little things: I always bring an extra towel and wristbands to help with sweat, and a paddle case to keep my paddle in top shape.

Indoor courts might be low on surprises, but staying prepared means you can stay focused on your game.

Essential Skills for Indoor Pickleball for Beginners

This table covers essential skills for indoor pickleball beginners, explaining why each skill is important and giving quick tips to help you improve fast. Perfect for building confidence and having fun on the court!

Skill/Strategy	What It Is	Why It Matters	Pro Tips
Dinking	A soft shot landing in the opponent’s kitchen	Controls the pace and keeps opponents on their toes	Focus on a light, controlled touch
Third Shot Drop	A soft, high shot after the return of serve, aimed at the kitchen	Allows you and your partner to move up to the net	Aim for a high arc that lands softly in the kitchen
Ready Position	Stance with knees bent, paddle up, facing forward	Prepares you for quick reactions to any shot	Keep the paddle at chest level to react faster
Communication	Calling “yours” or “mine” with your partner	Avoids confusion and missed shots in doubles play	Be loud and clear—better too much than too little
Targeting Weaknesses	Aiming at the opponent’s weaker side (often backhand)	Increases chance of forcing mistakes	Observe opponents’ weak spots during warm-ups
Kitchen Awareness	Staying just outside the kitchen for volleys	Maintains an optimal position for quick responses	Position yourself a couple of inches behind the line
Serving Deep	Aiming for the back half of the opponent’s court	Keeps opponents away from the net and limits their offense	Practice different serve depths to improve control
Return of Serve Deep	Hitting a deep return to push the server back	Gives your team time to move up to the net	Keep your return low to make it harder to attack
Soft Hands	Light, controlled grip for dinks and drop shots	Reduces power on delicate shots, keeps control	Aim for a relaxed grip, around 3-4/10 on firmness
Footwork	Quick, light steps to adjust to shots	Keeps you agile and ready to reach shots on any side	Use small steps for better balance and stability

Techniques and Strategies for Indoor Pickleball

Indoor pickleball might look a lot like the outdoor game, but the strategies can be totally different. The slick courts and fast-paced play mean you need to step up your game.

So, let’s go over some techniques and tips that’ll help you dominate the indoor court!

Mastering the Indoor Serve: Precision is Everything

Indoor serves are all about control. With no wind to worry about, you can focus on serving with pinpoint accuracy.

I recommend trying a topspin serve—it gives the ball a nice curve, and on a fast indoor floor, it’ll keep your opponent on their toes.

Pro Tip: Mix up your serves! Try a few deep serves to push your opponent back, then switch it up with a short one to catch them off guard. If you can keep them guessing, you’re already one step ahead!

Taking the Offensive: Get Aggressive at the Net

The smooth indoor surface means the ball moves faster and stays lower, so why not use that to your advantage? One of the best strategies is to get up to the net as quickly as possible. Once you’re there, you can control the pace and keep your opponent on defense.

Pro Tip: Aim for the corners. If you can place the ball deep into the corners of the court, you’ll make it harder for your opponent to return it. Plus, it gives you more chances to put away the next shot!

Dinking Indoors: Stay in Control

Dinking is super effective indoors because the ball doesn’t bounce as high. This can help you force your opponent to make mistakes. Keep your dinks soft and just over the net to keep your opponent running.

Pro Tip: Try mixing in a few slice dinks. Adding a bit of spin will keep the ball low and make it tricky for your opponent to return it smoothly. It’s a fun way to keep the rallies interesting!

Defend Like a Boss: Be Ready for Fast Volleys

The ball moves fast indoors, so your defense has to be on point. Keep your paddle up and stay low so you can react quickly.

Practicing quick volleys will help you get used to the pace and be ready for anything your opponent sends your way.

Pro Tip: Stay balanced! It’s easy to get caught leaning in one direction, but if you keep your weight centered, you’ll be ready to move any way you need to. It’ll make you a wall your opponent can’t get past!

Footwork, Footwork, Footwork!

Good footwork is everything in indoor pickleball. The court is small, but every step counts. Practice shuffling sideways and moving forward and back so you can cover the whole court. Remember: the faster you move, the better your shots will be.

Pro Tip: Try a quick little hop (or “split step”) right as your opponent hits the ball. It’ll help you stay light on your feet and ready to move in any direction. Think of it as a mini power-up right before you get into action!

Common Pickleball Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Alright, pickleball buddies, let’s talk truth! You’re mid-game, feeling unstoppable, and then—wham!—you mess up, and just like that, you hand over the point. Oof, we’ve all been there.

I know I have! From smacking the ball too hard to tripping over my own feet, I’ve made just about every pickleball mistake you can think of.

But here’s the cool part: once you know what mistakes to watch out for, you can totally dodge them like a pro.

So, grab your paddle, and let’s jump into some of the most common pickleball slip-ups and how you can leave them in the dust!

1. Over-Hitting: When Power Overrules Precision

Ah, over-hitting. It’s like that pesky fly at a picnic—always showing up when you least want it. When I first started, I thought the harder I hit, the better.

I’d wind up and smack that ball like I was trying to hit it out of the park. But guess what? In pickleball, power isn’t always the answer.

Why It Happens:
Over-hitting usually comes from nerves or excitement. You see an opportunity and go all in, trying to win the point in one shot. But here’s the thing: on a pickleball court, control beats power most of the time.

How to Fix It:
Slow down, and loosen that grip! When you’re gripping the paddle too hard, it’s easy to send the ball flying. Try holding the paddle a bit lighter and aim to place the ball rather than smash it.

It’s all about finesse, my friend. Practice dinking more—these soft, controlled shots can help you learn how to ease up on the power.

2. Neglecting Footwork: It’s Not All in the Hands

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched players get so focused on their paddle skills that they forget all about their feet.

But here’s the secret: pickleball is just as much about footwork as it is about hand-eye coordination. If your feet aren’t in the right spot, your shot won’t be either.

Why It Happens:
Pickleball is fast-paced, and it’s easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment. But planting your feet too soon or being slow to move can seriously throw off your game.

How to Fix It:
Always be ready to move. A little hop or split step just before your opponent hits the ball can work wonders. Think of it as a mini dance on the court—light and quick.

Practice shuffling side to side and moving forward and backward without crossing your feet. I also love to remind myself: “Feet first, swing later.” If your feet are set, your shot will be so much smoother.

3. Poor Serving Technique: Missing Out on Easy Points

Let’s talk about the serve, my favorite part of the game! It’s your big chance to take control of the point from the start. But a lot of players don’t put much thought into it.

I used to think, “Hey, just get it over the net.” But there’s so much more to it!

Why It Happens:
For beginners, just getting the serve in can feel like a win. But if you don’t have a consistent serve, you’re giving away free points and missing out on chances to gain an advantage.

How to Fix It:
Think about placement and spin. I like to mix up my serves—sometimes I’ll go for a deep serve to push my opponent back, and other times I’ll throw in a short serve to keep them guessing.

And remember, it’s all about the follow-through. Finish with your paddle high and don’t rush it. Start slow, practice different serves, and find what works for you.

4. Forgetting the Kitchen Rules: Avoid the Foot Faults

Ah, the kitchen—the non-volley zone, where so many pickleball dreams have met their end. Even though the kitchen rules are simple, it’s easy to forget them in the heat of the moment. But stepping into the kitchen while volleying is a surefire way to lose a point.

Why It Happens:
It’s tempting to creep into the kitchen, especially when you’re caught up in an intense volley. And sometimes, you might not even realize you’ve stepped in until it’s too late.

How to Fix It:
Practice your foot positioning at the kitchen line. I always tell myself to stay light on my toes, like I’m ready to bounce back at any moment.

Also, try to get comfortable with dinks and soft shots that don’t require you to step too close. And if you’re not sure where you are, take a glance down every now and then to check your position.

5. Being Too Predictable: Mix Up Your Shots

You ever feel like your opponent is reading your mind? They’re always right where your shot lands. If that’s the case, you might be getting a little too predictable.

I used to do this all the time—dink to the same spot, hit cross-court every time. It’s like I was teaching my opponent how to beat me!

Why It Happens:
We all have our comfort zones, and it’s easy to fall into patterns. But if you’re too predictable, your opponent will catch on quickly.

How to Fix It:
Switch it up! Try aiming for different spots on the court and throwing in the occasional surprise. Maybe add a cross-court dink, or go for the opponent’s backhand when they’re expecting a forehand. Just like in life, variety is the spice of pickleball.

Not only does it keep your opponent on their toes, but it also helps you become a more versatile player.

6. Staying at the Baseline: Get to the Kitchen Line

It’s tempting to hang back at the baseline, especially when you’re returning a tough serve. But staying back there can put you at a disadvantage. The kitchen line is where the magic happens—so don’t be shy about getting up there.

Why It Happens:
Sometimes it feels safer to stay back, especially if you’re worried about getting caught by a quick volley. But when you’re hanging at the baseline, you’re giving your opponent control of the net.

How to Fix It:
After your return, make a beeline for the kitchen line. If you’re hesitant, try practicing moving up slowly after each shot. This way, you can get comfortable with advancing without feeling rushed.

Eventually, you’ll find that getting up to the net becomes second nature. And trust me, once you’re up there, you’ll have way more control over the point.

7. Ignoring the Importance of Recovery: Always Be Ready for the Next Shot

One of the biggest mistakes I see is players who don’t reset after a shot. They make a great shot, but then they’re caught flat-footed when the ball comes back.

I’ve been guilty of this myself—admiring my own shot instead of getting ready for the next one.

Why It Happens:
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment. You make a killer shot, and for a split second, you think you’ve won the point. But pickleball is fast, and the next shot is always just a heartbeat away.

How to Fix It:
As soon as you make a shot, get back to a ready position. I like to stay low, paddle up, and be ready to move. Think of it as a dance—every shot is just one step, and you’ve always got to be ready for the next.

Practicing this will help you keep your cool under pressure and stay one step ahead of your opponent.

Finding Indoor Pickleball Courts and Facilities

Ready to play pickleball indoors but not sure where to start? Don’t worry! Finding a great indoor court is way easier than you might think. Whether you’re looking for a local spot to play or want to set up your own court, I’ve got you covered.

How to Find Courts

• Places2Play.org and CourtReserve App: These tools help you find and book nearby courts fast.
• Community Centers/Gyms: Many local rec centers and gyms have indoor courts, even if they’re not always advertised. Check around!

Top Indoor Facilities

• Chicken N Pickle: A pickleball haven across the U.S. with great courts, food, and a fun vibe.
• Pickleball Academy (Naples, FL): A must-visit with top-notch facilities and training programs.

Set Up Your Own Court

Got space? You can make your own indoor court at home! All you need is a portable net, some tape for lines, and an indoor ball. A garage, basement, or gym works perfectly. Ready to play anytime!

Indoor Pickleball Tournaments and Events

Ready to take your indoor pickleball game to the next level? Indoor tournaments and events are where the excitement really kicks up a notch! These events are perfect for testing your skills, meeting other players, and soaking up the intense energy of indoor competition.

Let’s dive into what you can expect from indoor pickleball tournaments and where to find your next big challenge.

Local and National Tournaments

From local rec center showdowns to national championships, indoor pickleball tournaments are everywhere!

• Local Events: Check out nearby community centers or gyms, as they often host fun, casual tournaments. These are great for beginners or anyone looking to play a friendly but competitive game.
• National Competitions: For a bigger challenge, look into events like the USAPA National Indoor Championships. These tournaments draw players from all over and feature top-notch indoor facilities with smooth courts, consistent lighting, and everything you need for serious competition.

Where to Find Tournaments

• PickleballTournaments: This site is a goldmine for finding upcoming events. You can search by location, skill level, and date, so you’ll always know where the action is.
• Local Clubs and Social Media: Many pickleball clubs post about tournaments on their websites or social media. Following them is a great way to stay updated and catch word of events you might otherwise miss!

What to Expect at an Indoor Tournament

Indoor tournaments are fast and intense! You’ll face off against opponents in a controlled environment, so be prepared for quick rallies and slick floors. Tournaments often include several matches, so you’ll need stamina to keep up.

• Pro Tip: Indoor tournaments don’t have weather delays, so get ready for non-stop play. Bring extra gear like paddle grips and a towel to stay fresh between matches.

Join the Fun, Even as a Spectator

Not ready to compete yet? That’s cool—attending a tournament as a spectator is a blast too! You can cheer on your friends, learn new techniques, and soak up the exciting atmosphere.

Plus, watching high-level players up close is one of the best ways to improve your own game.

Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleball: Full Comparison Table

Indoor Pickleball: Pros & Cons

✅ Advantages

• Weather-proof: Play anytime—no worries about rain, wind, or heat.

• Consistent conditions: Lighting, bounce, and temperature stay steady.

• Controlled gameplay: Slower pace helps build touch and strategy.

• Better for beginners: Easier to learn the game without environmental distractions.

❌ Disadvantages

• Louder environment: Sound echoes in gyms can be distracting.

• Less ventilation: Can feel stuffy during long matches.

• Limited availability: Fewer indoor courts in some areas.

• Less realism for tournaments: Most big events are played outdoors.

Outdoor Pickleball: Pros & Cons

✅ Advantages

• Fresh air & open space: More enjoyable atmosphere for many players.

• Tournaments are usually outdoors: Great for practicing real match settings.

• Faster, dynamic gameplay: Builds reflexes, power, and adaptability.

• Usually more accessible: More public courts and casual games.

❌ Disadvantages

• Weather dependent: Wind, rain, heat, or sun can disrupt play.

• Surface wear & tear: Courts and balls wear out faster.

• Unpredictable bounce: Rough surfaces can cause inconsistencies.

• Sun glare & shadows: Visibility can be a real challenge at times.

If you can, play both! Indoor helps with control and consistency. Outdoor builds toughness and real-world adaptability. A great pickleball player is sharp in either setting.

Health and Fitness Benefits of Playing Indoor Pickleball

Playing pickleball isn’t just a blast—it’s also fantastic for your health! Indoor pickleball gives you all the benefits of an intense workout while keeping it low-impact and easy on your joints.

Plus, you’ll boost your mental well-being and make new friends. Here’s why indoor pickleball is one of the best ways to stay active year-round.

Physical Benefits: Workout Without the Wear and Tear

Indoor pickleball is a fast-paced game, which means you’re getting an awesome cardio workout without even realizing it! The game strengthens your muscles, keeps your heart pumping, and improves flexibility—all while going easy on your joints.

• Cardio Boost: With quick rallies and plenty of movement, your heart rate stays up, giving you a great cardio workout that doesn’t feel like exercise.
• Full-Body Strength: Lunging for the ball, twisting for shots, and running back and forth works muscles all over—arms, legs, and core.
• Joint-Friendly: Unlike running, indoor pickleball is low-impact, so it’s perfect if you want to stay active without putting a strain on your knees or ankles.

Mental and Social Benefits: Stress Less, Smile More

Pickleball isn’t just good for your body; it’s also great for your mind! The game keeps you focused, challenges your strategy skills, and gives you a chance to hang out with friends or make new ones.

• Stress Relief: Focusing on the game lets you forget about whatever else is going on, giving you a break from stress.
• Mental Sharpness: Constant strategizing keeps your brain engaged, improving focus and quick thinking.
• Social Connection: Whether you’re playing casually or in a league, indoor pickleball is super social. It’s a great way to stay connected and meet new people who love the game as much as you do.

Pickleball for Seniors: Stay Active, Stay Young

Indoor pickleball is perfect for seniors because it’s competitive yet low-impact. It keeps you active and fit without pushing your body too hard. Many communities even have senior-friendly leagues, so there’s always a welcoming place to play.

• Easy on the Body: Gentle on joints but great for maintaining strength and flexibility, pickleball is an ideal sport for staying active as you age.
• Welcoming Community: Senior leagues and casual games are all about fun and fitness. It’s never too late to jump in and start playing!

Indoor Pickleball for Beginners: The Perfect Place to Start

If you’re new to pickleball, indoor courts are ideal. With consistent conditions and no wind, you can focus on learning the basics without distractions.

• Getting Started: All you need is a paddle, some court shoes, and an indoor pickleball. You’ll find most players are happy to welcome newbies and show you the ropes.
• Beginner Mistakes to Avoid: Start by mastering control over power. Indoors, the ball moves quickly, so focus on accuracy and keep your feet light and ready to move.

Drills and Exercises for Beginners: Build Skills Fast

Want to up your game? Try these simple drills:

• Soft Dinks and Volleys: Practice gentle dinks and volleys with a partner to build control.
• Shadow Footwork: Move across the court without a ball, focusing on your positioning and balance. It’ll help you react faster when it’s time to play!

Best Indoor Pickleball Venues in the U.S.

Looking for a fantastic place to play indoors? The U.S. has plenty of incredible indoor pickleball venues that combine quality courts with great atmospheres. Here are a few top picks:

1. Chicken N Pickle – This spot isn’t just for games; it’s a whole pickleball experience! With locations across the U.S., Chicken N Pickle is known for its excellent indoor facilities, delicious food, and lively ambiance. It’s a must-visit for any pickleball enthusiast!
2. The Pickleball Club (Sarasota, FL) – This club offers one of the most advanced indoor pickleball setups. Designed with the player in mind, it boasts dedicated pickleball courts, perfect lighting, and a great community vibe.
3. Legacy Sports USA (Mesa, AZ) – Located in Arizona, this sports complex has a fantastic pickleball setup with over 40 indoor and outdoor courts. It’s a top spot for tournaments and casual play alike.
4. Austin Pickle Ranch (Austin, TX) – A favorite among locals and travelers alike, this venue offers top-notch courts and a welcoming environment. The Austin Pickle Ranch is all about community and top-tier play, making it an ideal spot for pickleball lovers.

Playing at these venues is a great way to enjoy pickleball with all the perks of professional facilities!

Organizing an Indoor Pickleball Tournament

Want to bring the pickleball community together? Organizing an indoor pickleball tournament is an exciting way to get players pumped for some fast-paced action, no matter the weather! Here’s a quick guide to making your event a hit:

1. Choose the Right Venue: Look for a facility with enough courts, quality lighting, and comfortable seating for players and spectators alike. Having clear visibility and space for everyone to warm up is a bonus.
2. Set Tournament Rules and Structure: Decide on the format (e.g., single elimination, round robin) and ensure all players are informed about the rules, especially regarding indoor play adjustments.
3. Plan for Player Comfort: Indoor courts can get hot, so providing water stations, towels, and a designated rest area can make a big difference for players.
4. Add a Fun Twist: Consider offering awards for different categories, like “Best Serve” or “Most Spirited Player.” This creates an inclusive atmosphere and gives everyone something to strive for beyond just winning matches.
5. Spread the Word: Promote the event on social media, pickleball forums, and local community boards. The more the merrier!

Hosting a tournament is a rewarding way to share the love of the game and create a fun environment for all levels of players.

Why Indoor Pickleball is the Future of the Sport

Indoor pickleball is gaining fans fast, thanks to its year-round playability, consistent court conditions, and quick gameplay.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for a fun way to stay fit, indoor pickleball offers endless opportunities to improve and connect with other players.

Ready to see what all the excitement is about? Grab your paddle, find a local court, and experience why indoor pickleball is the future of fun and fitness!

FAQ’s About Indoor Pickleball

What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball?

It’s all about the court surface, ball type, and game speed—indoor play is faster and more predictable.

What gear do I need?

An indoor paddle, indoor pickleball, non-marking shoes, and some comfortable clothes will do the trick.

Where can I find indoor courts?

Check out Places2Play.org or Court Reserve for nearby options. Local gyms and community centers often have courts, too!

Are the rules different?

Nope! Same rules as outdoor pickleball, though indoor conditions may change your strategy a bit.

How can I improve my serve?

Focus on precision and spin. No wind means you can control the ball exactly how you want.

Can I use outdoor gear indoors?

You can, but indoor-specific gear will give you better results, especially on smooth floors.

Is indoor pickleball easier?

Not exactly! It’s just different. Faster pace, slicker surfaces, and consistent conditions add their own challenges.