Pickleball’s popularity has grown so quickly that it is almost essential to know how to play the game for social and professional reasons. Luckily, the pickleball is easy to learn and a ton of fun to play!
Being a beginner is never easy as an adult. However, there are ways you can learn pickleball in a relaxing and enjoyable environment so that the next time you are invited to play, you can dink with the best of them!
The Paseo Club is a fitness and social club in the Santa Clarita Valley that has served the community for over 20 years. With eleven pickleball courts, it is the perfect place to learn the game.
In this article, you will learn how to learn to play pickleball and your resources in Santa Clarita.
How to Learn Pickleball in Santa Clarita
1. Take a class
Signing up for a pickleball class (or drill) is a great way to pick up the game. A starter drill led by an experienced pro instructor will help you not only learn the basics, but also how to warm up and cool down properly. Pickleball class is a great way to meet other beginners and enjoy the camaraderie of discovering the sport together.
2. Private Lessons
The fastest way to learn pickleball is to train one-on-one with a knowledgeable coach. Your instructor can teach you the rules, guide you in practicing the fundamental strokes and footwork, and customize their instruction based on your individual needs. With just a few weeks of private lessons, you can be ready to play matches with other beginners.
3. Train with a Ball Machine
Once you get the basics covered, you can practice strokes with a ball machine. A pickleball ball machine is completely programmable according to your design. Try out pre-loaded drills, random oscillation for practicing returns, various speeds, and topspin and backspin throws. Training with a ball machine is not quite the same as working with a coach, but it is pretty close — and a great option for in between private lessons or drills class.
4. Play with Friends at Similar Skill Level
Gather together with your new friends from starter drill class and play a few matches together. This is a fun way to gain familiarity with the sport in a low-pressure environment. You can laugh at each other’s mistakes and encourage one another when you need a pep talk. Playing matches helps prepare you for all of the unpredictability of the game — teaching you the versatility and ingenuity you need to be a formidable player.
5. Purchase the proper equipment and attire
Do a little research — and ideally some testing — before purchasing a paddle. There are several companies manufacturing paddles and the quality and designs vary. Look for well-made paddles that are in your budget and feel good in your hand. Explore the length of the paddle and the handle, the circumference of the grip, and the materials they are made from. See what feels and operates best for you.
There are designated pickleball shoes, but if you aren’t ready to spring for those, look for sneakers constructed with good side support for lateral movement, sturdy outsoles for quick pivots and stops, and decent cushioning to protect your joints.
The best clothes for pickleball are ones you can move around in easily, wick sweat, and are trim fitting. Likely, you have these things already in your closet.
Free classes at The Paseo Club in Santa Clarita
If you are in the Santa Clarita area, come and visit The Paseo Club. The club has 11 pickleball courts, drop-in and reserved play, group classes, private instruction, leagues, and tournaments.
To help you get a leg up on your pickleball moves, The Paseo Club offers three free pickleball starter classes to new members. Starter classes are a great way to make new friends and become connected at the club. Starter drills are offered several times per week, so there is sure to be one that fits your schedule. Contact Courts Director Aaron Talalay to book your three free classes.
After class, stay and relax at the club! There is an on-site spa, sauna and steam room, pool and hot tub, and a delightful cafe and clubhouse. The Paseo Club is your home away from home in the Santa Clarita Valley. Become a member today. We can’t wait to see you on the courts!
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