How to Start Pickleball in Singapore: 2026 Guide
Pickleball is no longer just "that new sport" - it is officially a Singaporean phenomenon. From retirees in HDB estates to young professionals looking for a social workout, everyone is picking up a paddle. However, if you’ve never held one before, the transition from spectator to player can feel a bit overwhelming.
Whether you are a former tennis pro or haven't touched a racquet in a decade, here is your step-by-step guide to starting pickleball in Singapore this year.
Why is Everyone in Singapore Playing Pickleball?
Unlike tennis, which can take months to get your first rally going, pickleball has a "low floor and a high ceiling." Many beginners can sustain a functional, fun rally within their very first hour.
Social by Design: The court is smaller than a tennis court, keeping you close enough to your opponents and partner to actually have a conversation.
Easy on the Joints: The underhand serve and compact court dimensions mean significantly less strain on your shoulders and knees.
The "Community" Vibe: In Singapore, pickleball has become a major social hub—the perfect way to meet new people outside of the office.
Step 1: Don’t Buy a Paddle Yet!
The biggest mistake beginners make is rushing to buy a $300 carbon-fiber paddle before they’ve even hit their first ball.
Pro Tip: At Straits Pickle Club, we provide rental paddles for all our introductory clinics. Every paddle feels different - some are designed for "power," while others prioritize "control." It’s best to play a few sessions and find your personal style before making an investment.
Step 2: Book an "Introduction to Pickleball" Clinic
Pickleball has unique rules—like the Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen) and the Two-Bounce Rule that are much easier to learn in person than through a screen. Plus, it’s a lot more fun that way!
To learn pickleball in Singapore the right way, we recommend starting with a structured program. Our Introduction to Pickleball Clinic is designed specifically for absolute beginners. We cover:
The basic grip and swing mechanics.
Fundamental rules and scoring (which can be tricky at first!).
Positioning on the court.
By the end of the clinic, we’ll have you playing your first games and having a blast!
Step 3: Finding the Right Pickleball Court
While public ActiveSG courts are an option, they are notoriously difficult to book and often fully exposed to the harsh sun. Furthermore, many public multi-purpose courts in Singapore lack the appropriate surface, resulting in balls that skid or bounce inconsistently. Without proper net barriers, you often spend more time retrieving stray balls than actually playing.
This is why many players prefer a dedicated facility like Straits Pickle Club at Jurong Play Grounds.
Weather Protection: Our courts feature 80% shade protection, allowing you to play at 2:00 PM without melting.
Professional Surfacing: We use an official acrylic surface that ensures a consistent, predictable bounce.
Net Barriers: Our courts are separated by barriers, so your game stays uninterrupted by neighbouring balls.
Step 4: play with others
Once you’ve learnt the basics, the next step is finding play partners. Most clubs in Singapore use Open Play sessions or DUPR sessions (the official global rating system).
At Straits, we hold regular play sessions organised by skill level. You can simply purchase a ticket, show up, and start playing. We handle all the logistics - no need to worry about booking a court or coordinating with other people. It’s the easiest way to find a game that challenges you without being intimidating.
Step 5: Level Up with Professional Coaching
When you’re ready to take your game to the next level, professional instruction is the fastest way to improve. Avoiding "bad habits" early on is key to reaching a high level of play.
Here at Straits, we offer both Group Pickleball Lessons and Private Coaching. Our professional coaches are elite players in their own right, dedicated to helping you master everything from the "third-shot drop" to advanced dinking strategies.
Ready to hit your first dink?
Join our next Introduction to Pickleball Clinic at our premium Jurong facility. We provide the paddles, the coaches, and the community - you just bring the energy!