New Release: Introductory Guide to Pickleball, the Sport Everyone's Talking About! A Must-Read for Beginners—Covers Basic Rules, Shot Techniques, and Effective Practice Methods

Kouyusha Co., Ltd. will release an introductory book on pickleball, a communication-driven sport that connects people, titled "Let's Try Pickleball for the First Time!" The book will be available nationwide at bookstores and online retailers starting around July 13, 2026. It captures the full appeal of pickleball—"fun and easy for anyone to enjoy right away, great for making new connections and improving health."

Pre-order and purchase here

→ amazon

→ Rakuten Books

Clear rule explanations for complete beginners and those with some experience

Pickleball combines the best elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis, and one of its main attractions is its simple rules, allowing even total beginners to enjoy playing right away. However, the "two-bounce rule" and the "non-volley zone" are unique to pickleball. This book clearly explains these and other basic rules with helpful illustrations.

One bounce after the serve, two bounces before volleying (serving and volleying immediately is not allowed)

Detailed guidance on how to get started, from finding beginner-friendly events to choosing equipment

The book gathers useful information for anyone wanting to start pickleball, including how to find the growing number of pickleball courts and beginner events, tips for purchasing your own gear, and basic etiquette to ensure everyone enjoys the game.

Find a place to play! Join beginner-friendly trial sessions

An alternative to clubs and schools: start playing with family and friends

Schools are key to spreading pickleball in Japan—recommendations for utilizing open school facilities

Start without bringing anything—try it with rental equipment

Choosing your own gear

Essential etiquette to know

5 key points for selecting a paddle

7 types of shots explained—tips on effective techniques, targets, and shot placement

The book introduces the essential techniques for seven fundamental shots: serve, return, groundstroke, volley, and dink. Each shot is thoroughly explained with tips specifically tailored for beginners to improve.

Groundstroke tip: Use your body rotation to swing, not just your arms

Improving makes it even more fun! Plenty of practice methods to help you stand out

After playing pickleball a few times, beginners often think, "I want to get a little better!" To help with that, the book includes eight practical practice drills. Each drill's purpose, objective, and key points are clearly explained with illustrations.

"Serve Target Drill"—improve serve consistency and accuracy to specific court zones

"Serve & Third Shot Drill"—develop the ability to hit third shots toward your opponent's feet

"Dink Game"—develop a feel for softly placing the ball

"Skinny Singles"—boost real-game skills in a short time

and more

Practice drill for accurately hitting targeted court zones: "Serve Target Drill"

Publication details

Title: Let's Try Pickleball for the First Time!

Author: Futa Ueno

Release date: Around July 13, 2026

Pages: 152

Size: A5

Price: 1,800 JPY + tax

ISBN 978-4-7709-0081-4

https://www.kohyusha.co.jp/books/item/978-4-7709-0081-4.html

Author profile

Futa Ueno (born 1977, Wakayama Prefecture)

After graduating from university, Ueno became a founding member of a sports management company, where he was involved in overall management, top tennis player development, and athlete management. He later held key positions in sales and marketing at one of the world's largest medical device manufacturers and a global pharmaceutical company, promoting innovative medical devices and treatments. He has worked to enhance well-being through both advanced medicine and sports. In the sports field, he has served as a tennis coach since his student days, coaching players ranging from recreational players to Grand Slam finalists and Olympic athletes, including on tour. Based in Tokyo, he is now actively promoting and coaching pickleball. Formerly a certified professional by the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA).

Company: Kouyusha Co., Ltd. (Kouyusha)

A small publishing house passionate about travel, wine, and dogs. Primarily publishes practical guides.

Founded: June 20, 1956 (Showa 31)

Address: 1st Floor, FARO Kagurazaka, 5-1 Fukuro-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Business activities: Publishing, editing and production, video production, internet-related businesses, etc.

HP: https://www.kohyusha.co.jp

SNS: X account @kohyusha

Contact: info@kohyusha.co.jp