Safety

Play hard. Play safe.

Simple habits that keep you, your partner and the gear in great shape.

These are general guidelines, not medical advice. Always follow the rules of your host facility.

Before you play

  • Check the paddle face, edge guard and grip. If anything is cracked, loose or sharp, do not use it. Report it in the app.
  • Wear court shoes with good lateral support.
  • Warm up for five minutes. Most pickleball injuries come from quick lateral moves on cold muscles.
  • Consider eye protection, especially when playing at the kitchen line.

On court

  • Call the ball and communicate with your partner to avoid collisions.
  • Never run backwards for a lob. Turn and move, or let it go.
  • Hydrate, and take a break if you feel dizzy or short of breath.
  • Follow the host facility's court etiquette and any posted rules.

Returning gear

  • Return the paddle to its numbered slot and tap Return.
  • Use the in-app note to flag wear, so the next player gets a great paddle.
  • Wipe the grip if you like. Wipes are available at most host clubs.

Young players

Players under 16 must be supervised by the account holder. Junior and lightweight paddles are available at most racks.

In an emergency

Call 911 for any medical emergency. Then alert host facility staff, who know the location of first aid kits and AEDs on site.