Your First Pickleball Game: What to Bring and What to Expect
3 October 2026
Your first game is meant to be fun, not stressful. Here is what to pack and what to expect.
What to wear
- Comfortable sports clothes you can move in.
- Sports shoes with good grip. You will turn and side-step a lot, so avoid shoes with slippery soles.
What to bring
- A bottle of water.
- A small towel.
- Friends. Pickleball is usually played as doubles, so four people make a full game. You can also play one on one.
Not sure about paddles or balls? Ask the PICKLO team when you book and they will tell you what is available.
Before you start
Arrive about ten minutes early. Warm up your shoulders, wrists, hips and ankles. Tell the staff it is your first time. They can help you get started.
What your first hour will feel like
The ball is light and slow, so you will be rallying within minutes. You will miss a lot at the start. That is normal. Focus on three things:
- Get the serve in.
- Keep the ball low over the net.
- Have fun.
Each booking at PICKLO is a one-hour slot. Most beginners find one hour is plenty for a first visit. If you want to learn the rules first, read pickleball rules in five minutes.