Pickleball FAQs | Beginner Advice, Coaching, Sessions & Local Info – Made You Dink Crickhowell

Friendly, clear answers to the questions people ask most about pickleball in Crickhowell and South Wales.

1. Getting Started & Beginners

Q: I’m completely new to pickleball — is this suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Made You Dink is built around helping beginners take their first steps into pickleball in a relaxed, fun and supportive environment. We focus on simple skills, easy rallies and building confidence from the very first session.

Q: Do I need to be fit or have a sporting background?

Not at all. Pickleball is one of the most accessible racket sports for people of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re returning to activity, building confidence, or trying a new sport for the very first time, we adapt each session so you feel safe, comfortable and welcome.

Q: What happens during a beginner session?

A typical session includes: a gentle warm-up, an introduction to grip, footwork and the basic rules, simple drills such as serving, returning and rallying, and then some friendly point-play or games. Most beginners are hitting rallies by the end of their first session.

2. Locations, Access & Equipment

Q: Where do your sessions take place?

We run sessions in Crickhowell, with regular coaching at Crickhowell Tennis Club and other local venues such as Llangynidr Village Hall. As we grow, we’ll continue expanding provision across Crickhowell and the surrounding communities. We can also come to a venue that you arrange.

Q: Do I need to bring equipment?

No. For all beginner and introductory sessions, we provide paddles and balls so you can try the sport without buying anything. If you decide to continue, we’re happy to help you choose suitable equipment.

Q: What should I wear?

Comfortable sportswear and trainers with good grip. Indoor sessions require clean indoor shoes.

3. Who We Serve

Q: I’m over 50 or managing a long-term health condition. Can I still play?

Yes. One of Made You Dink’s key aims is to offer accessible, enjoyable sport for: adults who are getting older and want to stay active, people with long-term conditions (where appropriate), adults returning to activity, and anyone who feels unsure about starting exercise again. Sessions are inclusive, coached safely and paced appropriately.

Q: What opportunities do you have for children and families?

We run: kids’ beginner sessions, holiday activities, parent-child sessions, and birthday party experiences. Sessions focus on confidence, fun, skill-building and teamwork.

4. Coaching, Programmes & Pricing

Q: What types of coaching do you offer?

We provide: 1-to-1 coaching, small-group coaching, adult group sessions, kids and youth sessions, family sessions, corporate/team events, and beginner programmes designed for complete newcomers.

Q: How do I book?

You can book through the Bookings page on the website, or by contacting us directly if you’d like a personalised session or private group booking.

Q: What are your prices?

Example rates include: £25 for a 1-to-1 coaching hour (equipment included), group sessions for adults and children from around typical local-activity prices (full, current pricing is always shown when you book). Exact prices can vary by venue and format, so we always confirm them clearly at the time of booking.

5. Safety, Policies & Cancellations

Q: Are your sessions safe for all ages and abilities?

Yes. Safety and inclusivity are at the heart of every session. We follow clear safeguarding policies, risk assessments and sensible activity ratios. Adults and parents are asked to complete a simple health declaration so we can coach appropriately.

Q: What happens if a session doesn’t reach minimum numbers or needs to be cancelled?

If a group session does not reach the minimum number of players, we’ll let you know in advance and offer a full refund or transfer. For weather cancellations (outdoors) or unexpected circumstances, we provide alternative dates or refunds. Visit our T&Cs page for more information.

6. Community & Our Approach

Q: What makes Made You Dink different?

Made You Dink is a community-focused pickleball coaching organisation based in and around Crickhowell. Our approach is rooted in: inclusion, affordability, breaking down barriers to activity, supporting families, and creating a welcoming pickleball community for all. We’re not just about performance – we’re about fun, confidence and connection.

Q: Do you run corporate or workplace sessions?

Yes. We offer tailored, fun and accessible team-building sessions suitable for all fitness levels. These are great for communication, teamwork and wellbeing, and can be adapted to your workplace needs. Visit our Corporate Page for more details. Visit our T&Cs page for more information.

Q: How can I stay involved?

You can join sessions, sign up for updates, follow our social channels, complete feedback surveys, or get in touch if you’d like to organise a group or work with us in another way.

Q: Do you offer pickleball coaching across South Wales?

A: Yes. Our core base is Crickhowell, but we also work in nearby villages and can travel to suitable venues in the surrounding South Wales area for group bookings, schools or organisations.

Q: I’m returning to activity after a long break — is pickleball suitable?

A: Yes. Pickleball is gentle on the joints, low-impact and highly inclusive. Many of our adult beginners are returning to exercise after months or years of inactivity. We keep the sessions welcoming, steady-paced and confidence-building.