The Major Differences Between Pickleball Singles & Doubles
You can play pickleball in singles or in doubles.
While there are a few tactics you can carry forward from doubles (the more traditional version of play), the singles match puts more emphasis on each player, since you will have to cover the entire 20-foot court. Besides the sheer physical effort involved, singles and doubles differ in multiple ways, including scoring and strategies.
Listed below are the most important things you need to know while deciding which of the two is right for you.
Why Should You Choose Pickleball Singles Play?
Players who learn to play pickleball singles will find that their court coverage enlarges significantly. The idea of having to run around half of a court by yourself can be physically and mentally exhausting. Having finesse in a pickleball game takes time and practice for some players. Here are a few things you should consider before you start the singles tournament:
Physical fitness is essential.
You have to do all the work and exertion since you do not have a partner or coworker. A physical fitness advantage in the tournament will make things easier for you as you progress in the tournament (or just as a player in general).
Conditioning training should be incorporated.
The priority should not only be the game itself, but also condition training. Playing Pickleball gets easier with every game once you get used to it.
Pickleball games of this type do have their perks, however:
Groundstrokes are a crucial part of the game, so you should focus on them. Singles play gives you more opportunity to do so. An opponent usually wins when loopy groundstrokes are used. You can concentrate on your moves when you play alone.
This type of play is also more of a workout. As a result of playing the game, your heart becomes stronger and you attain improved health.
It takes a lot of patience and perseverance to make the transition from doubles to singles.
It's very useful for future doubles pickleball matches because after training in singles, transitioning back to doubles is effortless because of the previous experience. To succeed at anything, you have to develop discipline. You will significantly improve your pickleball game by pushing yourself to do better in singles.
What Strategies To Employ In Pickleball Singles?
If you serve over the net and it is returned into the court, your opponent can easily turn things around. Make sure you follow these tips to ensure victory:
1. Have depth and control of your strong serve
A hard and precise serve cannot be underestimated. Serving in the middle is a preferred strategy for most pickleball players. The ideal way to hit the ball is to aim for the weak spots of the opponent rather than the corners of the service box. This will increase your chances of getting a good return.
2. Return the serve swiftly and accurately
To return the opponent's service, you must hit it hard and precisely, just as you should when starting a service. To keep the player from establishing a strong position near the net, you should aim for the deep corners of the court.
3. Don’t try for a fancy game
There is no time to show precision or try new moves in a singles game. If you want to score points and win, you should have strength, quick movements, and speed. Do not allow your opponent to hit hard on your court by aiming at different areas. Rather than allowing them a chance to hit, keep your distance.
Why Should You Choose Pickleball Doubles Play?
As the name suggests, you need a partner to play in this division, so you cover only half the court at a time. Due to the carefree and easy play of doubles, a lot of people prefer it. Listed below are some of its advantages:
Playing doubles can reduce the risk of depression. You can also meet new people and socialize more by playing doubles. By exposing your body to different opponents and teammates, you release happy endorphins, which are effective at warding off depression.
Playing pickleball improves your cardiovascular fitness and your blood pressure levels, according to a study from Western State Colorado University. Poor exercise habits can cause inability to move, imbalances, and a general weakness as we age. In addition to promoting an active lifestyle, pickleball helps the elderly to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they age.
Playing together leads to close friendships and forms bonds that can last a lifetime. You might also meet new people by bringing additional players and introducing your friends to a sport they may come to love.
What Strategies To Employ In Pickleball Doubles?
Plan your strategies with your partner thoroughly when playing doubles pickleball. In order for you both to be in sync, both of you need to agree on how a play should be executed. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Ensure that the ball is in play by communicating
Pickleball depends heavily on the serve to score points, so it's a good idea to master it before you play the game. To avoid giving your opponent the chance to completely return the service, discuss a deep, definite hit with your partner.
2. Attempt to hit your opponent in the middle of their court
It is likely that your opponents will find it difficult to decide who should return the ball if you serve or return serve at the middle. Many players use this type of deception as a strategy. The only thing you have to do is observe their movements and come up with a plan with your teammate.
3. Play lefts and rights properly
Make sure your partner has the opposite dominant hand. Let's say your right hand is dominant. Finding a partner who uses their left hand as their dominant hitting hand will ensure both sides of your court have equal serving force and power. This way, your team is as even and as powerful as possible.
Do you like the sounds of doubles or singles pickleball? Usually, people start in pairs to help learn the game and for a nice, easy, introduction. But you could also start by practicing your solo serve and learning the rules as you go along.
Let us know how you prefer to play below.
