Pickleball VS Paddle Tennis: Court Size, Rules and Other Differences
Pickleball and paddle tennis are two really fun games. They’re both played on a court, with a ball, and rackets. But they have some key differences that make each game unique in its own way. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between pickleball vs paddle tennis to help you decide which one is best for your skillset.
The main differences between Pickleball and Paddle tennis are in court size, ball type and paddle size of both games. The Pickleball court is small while the paddle tennis court is big in size. In pickleball, we use a waffle-type ball while in paddle tennis we use a tennis ball. The Pickleball paddle is wider while the paddle tennis racket is shorter.
In This Post
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is played with a perforated plastic ball, wickets, or pins that are placed on the court similar to those used in ten-pin bowling and a paddle. The game was created in 1965 by three dads who were looking to come up with something fun for their kids to do during the summer.
What is Paddle Tennis?
Paddle tennis has a lot of similarities to ten-pin bowling and table tennis. It’s played on a court that is the same size as a pickleball or tennis court. You use a paddle to hit the ball, similar to pickleball, but you hit the ball over a net. The rules are actually quite similar to pickleball and tennis.
Differences Between Pickleball vs Paddle Tennis
Here are the main differences between pickleball vs paddle tennis:
Difference in Court Size:
The court size for pickleball is smaller than that of paddle tennis. Pickleball courts are 20 ft by 44 ft, and Paddle Tennis courts are 29 ft by 60 ft.
Difference in Ball Size:
The ball size for pickleball is smaller than that of paddle tennis. Paddle Tennis uses a regulation USTA approved ball, and pickleball uses a Wiffle-type ball that is slightly smaller than a ping pong or golf ball.
Difference in Racket Size:
The size of the paddle is one key difference between pickleball vs. paddle tennis rackets. The pickleball paddle is wider and shorter than the Paddle Tennis racket. The pickle ball racquets are about 12 inches wide, and the tennis rackets are about 15 inches wide.
Difference in Rules:
The rules for pickleball vs paddle tennis vary depending on the governing body. The International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) is the main governing body for pickleball. All paddle tennis courts are required to have a “no-volley zone” around the net to ensure that play doesn’t get too close.
Pickleball does not have a no-volley zone. Since the game is played with a perforated ball, it does not travel very fast and can be easily controlled by players of all skill levels.
Difference in Number of Players:
Pickleball is usually played by two players, although it can be played with four people. Paddle Tennis is usually played with four people.
Difference in Scoring:
The scoring for pickleball vs paddle tennis varies depending on the governing body. The IFP rules state that in order to win a game, you must reach 11 points with at least a two-point lead. In the case of a tie, you play until one player has at least a two-point lead.
Paddle Tennis uses games to 11 points with the first to reach five points winning a game. In the case of a tie, play continues until one player is two points ahead.
Paddle Tennis also ends with games to 11 points, but you play the best of three games. The first player to reach 11 points (with at least a two-point lead) wins and must win by two points. If there is a tie, play continues until one player reaches at least two points ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which one is Best for Beginners?
Both sports are good for beginners, but pickleball is generally the better choice because it’s easier to learn. Since you use a smaller paddle and a perforated ball, it’s easier to control and hit the ball.
How Much Time is Required To Master These Sports?
Since both sports are easy to learn, it doesn’t take long to master them. It’s assumed that most people will be able to play pickleball at a competitive level within three months. Paddle Tennis is more difficult to master, but most people will be able to play it at a competitive level in six months.
Which One Should I Play To Become Healthier?
Both sports are great for your health. Paddle tennis is a higher intensity workout because it’s played at a faster pace and you’re running to hit the ball. Pickleball is not as intense, but it’s still a great workout and good for your overall health.
Which Sport Is More Popular?
Pickleball is the more popular of the two sports. It’s played in over 80 countries, and there are roughly 12 million players. Paddle tennis is played in 21 countries, and there are roughly one million players worldwide.
Which One Is More Expensive?
The equipment cost for pickleball is cheaper than that of paddle tennis. You can buy a starter kit with everything you need to play the game for around $100.
Paddle tennis requires more equipment and costs several hundred dollars to start playing the game, especially if you’re looking for high-quality gear.
Which One Is Popular Among Seniors?
Both sports are popular with seniors, but pickleball is growing in popularity among the senior population. It’s a great way for seniors to stay active and healthy, since it provides an easy-to-follow workout that they can do with others.
Which One Is Better for Exercise?
Both sports are great ways to exercise and stay fit, but pickleball is a small-sided game. This is great for exercise because it forces you to constantly move and use different muscles throughout the match. Paddle tennis is a larger-sized game, so it’s not as good for exercise.
Conclusion:
Both pickleball and paddle tennis are great ways to stay fit, play a sport, and have fun. Pickleball is easier to learn, more popular, and cheaper than paddle tennis. You can learn how to play pickleball in three months, while you’ll need at least six months to learn how to play paddle tennis.
Pickleball is a faster-paced game, which makes it more intense and better for exercise. Paddle tennis is not as fast paced but still a great workout.
Pickleball and paddle tennis are both fun sports that you can play with friends, family, or by yourself whenever you want to get outside and have some fun.
So which is your favorite one? Tell me in the comments!
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