Pickleball is a fast-paced, fun sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. One of the most confusing aspects for beginners is the “kitchen” – a term that sounds strange but is crucial to the game. The kitchen is a 7-foot area near the net where players must follow specific rules to avoid faults. But what exactly is the kitchen in pickleball, and why is it so important? In this article, we’ll explain everything in simple terms, so you can master this important part of the game and have more fun on the court.
What is the Kitchen in Pickleball?
In simple terms, the kitchen in pickleball is the 7-foot area on either side of the net where players cannot hit the ball unless it has bounced. This area is officially called the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ).
The kitchen is crucial because it prevents players from standing too close to the net and volleying the ball, which would give them an unfair advantage. By restricting volleys in this zone, the kitchen adds strategy and balance to the game. Players must stay aware of their position to avoid faults, making the kitchen a key area for skillful play and game flow.
Where is the Kitchen Located?
The kitchen in pickleball is located on both sides of the net. It’s a special 7-foot area that extends from the net towards the back of the court. Here’s how the court layout looks:
- Kitchen Area: The 7-foot Non-Volley Zone directly in front of the net on both sides of the court. Players are not allowed to hit a volley while standing inside or near this zone.
- Other Areas: The rest of the court, beyond the kitchen, is divided into the service areas (left and right side of the court) where players serve and hit volleys.
To make it clear:
- The kitchen begins 7 feet away from the net and stretches backward.
- Any area beyond the kitchen allows players to volley the ball without restrictions.
Why is it Called the Kitchen in Pickleball?
The term “kitchen” in pickleball might sound a bit strange, but it’s actually a fun nickname for a very important part of the court. While it’s officially called the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ), the term “kitchen” has stuck for a few fun and light-hearted reasons.
Theory 1: The Cooking Connection
Some believe the kitchen got its name because players are “cooking” the ball near the net, meaning they’re preparing it for the perfect shot. It’s as if they’re “cooking up” a strategy while standing in this key area!
Theory 2: The Old-Fashioned Kitchen
Another theory is that in the past, the kitchen referred to the “no-man’s land” near the net, much like the area behind the stove in a small kitchen where you don’t want to stand too close. It’s a place where things could get a little “too hot” or intense, much like standing too close to the net!
While the exact origin remains unclear, these fun ideas make it easier to remember the name and its importance in the game. Whatever the reason, the kitchen is one area of the court that every pickleball player needs to understand.
Kitchen Rules in Pickleball (Must-Know!)
The kitchen in pickleball comes with a set of important rules to keep the game fair and exciting. Here are the major kitchen rules every player should know:
No volleying in the kitchen:
You cannot hit the ball while standing in the kitchen or inside the 7-foot Non-Volley Zone. This rule prevents players from standing too close to the net and dominating the game with powerful volleys.
You can step into the kitchen after the ball bounces:
While you can’t volley from the kitchen, you can step into the kitchen after the ball has bounced. This is why it’s essential to let the ball bounce before moving into the zone.
No touching the kitchen line when volleying:
If you want to hit a volley, make sure your feet are behind the kitchen line. Stepping on or over the line while volleying results in a fault.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
- Volleying from the kitchen: New players often forget they can’t hit the ball in the kitchen without a bounce. This mistake can result in a fault and a lost point.
- Stepping on the kitchen line: Another common mistake is stepping on or over the line while trying to volley. Make sure to keep your feet behind the line when you’re volleying!
- Not letting the ball bounce: Some beginners try to step into the kitchen and hit the ball before it bounces, which goes against the rules. Always wait for the bounce!
Common Mistakes Players Make with the Kitchen
As you play pickleball, it’s easy to make a few mistakes when it comes to the kitchen. Here are some common errors and simple tips to avoid them:
- Foot Faults:
One of the most common mistakes is stepping on or over the kitchen line while trying to volley.
Tip: Always check your feet! Make sure your feet are behind the line when you’re about to volley. - Reaching Over the Kitchen Line:
Sometimes, players reach over the kitchen line to try to hit the ball, which is not allowed.
Tip: Stay behind the line and let the ball come to you. - Forgetting to Let the Ball Bounce:
When you’re in the kitchen, you must let the ball bounce before you can hit it. Some players forget this rule and try to volley the ball while it’s still in the air.
Tip: Wait for the bounce! This will help you avoid a fault.
Smart Strategies Around the Kitchen
Mastering the kitchen in pickleball isn’t just about following the rules—it’s also about using smart strategies to gain an advantage. One key technique that comes in handy near the kitchen is dinking. Let’s break it down:
What is Dinking?
Dinking refers to hitting a soft shot that lands in the kitchen, often close to the net. It’s an essential strategy because it allows you to control the pace of the game and set up your opponent for a mistake. Dinking helps you keep the ball low, forcing your opponent to either make a weak return or commit a fault.
Tips for Better Control and Patience:
Here are some simple strategies to help you improve your control around the kitchen:
- Stay close but outside the line:
Position yourself near the kitchen line, but don’t step into the zone unless the ball bounces. This will give you more options for shots and help you maintain control. - Practice soft shots:
Soft shots (dinks) are key to controlling the game around the kitchen. Practicing these shots will help you keep the ball low and force your opponent into mistakes. - Watch your balance:
Maintaining good balance is crucial when playing near the kitchen. Keep your weight forward and stay on the balls of your feet to react quickly and avoid stepping on the kitchen line.
How to Practice Kitchen Skills
If you want to get better at the kitchen in pickleball, practicing specific skills is the key. Here are some easy drills that even beginners can try to improve their kitchen game:
1. Dinking Practice
Dinking is one of the most important skills when you’re near the kitchen. To practice, stand close to the kitchen line and work on hitting soft shots that land in the kitchen area. Aim for control rather than power.
Tip: Focus on making the ball bounce twice—once in your side and once in your opponent’s side—without hitting it too hard.
2. Footwork Drills
Good footwork is crucial in the kitchen. Practice moving quickly but with control. Set up cones or markers near the kitchen line and practice side-to-side movement. Work on getting your feet into position to hit soft shots.
Tip: Always be ready to move in any direction without losing your balance.
3. Kitchen Line Challenges
To improve your positioning, challenge yourself to stay just behind the kitchen line while dinking. Try hitting 5–10 soft shots without stepping over the line. This will improve both your timing and foot control.
Tip: Set a goal to complete each round without making a fault.
Practicing Alone or with a Partner
If you don’t have a partner, you can practice these skills alone by using a wall. Simply stand a few feet away from the wall and practice dinking against it. You can also work on your footwork by moving to the ball after each bounce.
FAQS
1. Why is it called a kitchen in pickleball?
The name “kitchen” in pickleball is a fun nickname for the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ). While the exact origin is unclear, some believe it’s a playful reference to being “close to the net,” similar to how a kitchen is the heart of the home.
2. Can you hit a ball in the kitchen?
You can hit a ball in the kitchen, but only after it bounces. Volleys are not allowed in the kitchen, so wait for the ball to bounce before stepping inside the zone.
3. What is the pantry in pickleball?
The “pantry” in pickleball is often a humorous or alternative term for the kitchen (Non-Volley Zone). It’s used to refer to the same area, but there’s no official rule called the pantry.
4. Why do they call it the kitchen?
The kitchen in pickleball is named playfully, likely because it’s an area near the net where players “serve” soft shots. The term adds a bit of fun and personality to the game!
5. What is the kitchen rule in pickleball?
The kitchen rule in pickleball states that players cannot volley the ball while standing in the kitchen or Non-Volley Zone. You must let the ball bounce first before entering.
8. What happens if you touch the kitchen line?
If you touch or step on the kitchen line while volleying, it results in a fault. You must ensure your feet stay behind the line when hitting volleys to avoid penalties.
10. Why is the kitchen rule important?
The kitchen rule prevents players from crowding the net and dominating the game with powerful volleys. It keeps the game fair, balanced, and exciting by encouraging more strategic play.
Conclusion
Understanding what is the kitchen in pickleball is essential for every player, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. The kitchen is a unique area of the court that comes with important rules, like no volleying in the zone and the need to let the ball bounce before entering. Mastering the kitchen can make your game more strategic and enjoyable.
To improve your skills, practicing dinking, footwork, and positioning will help you gain control around the kitchen. Remember, it’s all about patience and control.
