Five years ago, when I first picked up that special paddle on the court with our small group of early enthusiasts, it felt as if we had discovered a hidden treasure. In the quiet of those empty courts, we enjoyed a brand-new sport together. Yet in just a few short years, pickle ball has swept across the globe at an astonishing pace. Courts that once sat empty are now fully booked; the crisp pop-pop-pop of the ball has replaced the silence. What was once a pastime favored mainly in retirement communities has become a phenomenon drawing people of all professions and all ages. As someone who has personally witnessed this sport shift from “niche” to “mainstream,” I’ve seen paddle materials evolve and strategies grow from simple hitting to sophisticated tactical battles. But one thing has never changed—the pure joy that travels through your palm the moment the paddle connects with a pickleball. 1. Pickleball: Why This Sport Became the Fastest-Growing Global Phenomenon Its explosive rise is not merely because it’s easy to learn. Pickleball skillfully satisfies deeper desires of modern life: The charm of “easy to learn, hard to master” Pickleball lets beginners experience a sense of competence almost instantly. Yet once you dive deeper, you discover it is a bottomless rabbit hole from the delicate third-shot drop, to lightning-quick reactions in the kitchen line, to the silent chemistry between partners. Its endless room for improvement is precisely what keeps players hooked. - A “social glue” for the modern world Pickleball courts are much smaller than tennis courts, meaning players stand closer and interact more. In an age dominated by digital communication, the sport offers warm, face-to-face connection. I’ve seen people from all walks of life high-five and laugh together on the court here, there is no hierarchy, only shared passion. 2. The Path to Improvement, Without the Detours. On the courts, I’ve met countless enthusiastic players who repeat avoidable mistakes simply because they lack systematic guidance. Although information is abundant, it is often fragmented and lacks structure. As a retired researcher with forty years of clinical science experience and the author of more than ten popular science books, I hope to condense my analytical skills, my understanding of paddle sports, and the practical knowledge gained from playing pickleball almost daily for over five years into this book. Whether you’re a beginner hoping to get started quickly, or a dedicated player striving to break through the 3.5 plateau, this book will offer technical refinement and tactical insight. It covers everything from fundamental strokes and the essential third shot to core strategies for doubles and singles. It not only teaches how to play but explains why you should play that way. The book also provides valuable guidance on body maintenance and injury prevention, helping players enjoy a lifetime of healthy play. Additionally, it explores on-court psychology and etiquette—supporting players in becoming respected partners and opponents, and helping everyone find joy, growth, and lasting friendships on the court we all share.