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The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)
You cannot volley the ball while standing in the kitchen.
The non-volley zone (NVZ), nicknamed the kitchen, is the 7-foot area on each side of the net. You may not hit a volley (a ball out of the air) while any part of your body touches the kitchen or its lines. You can stand in the kitchen any time — just not while volleying.
Common mistakes
- Stepping on the kitchen line after a volley
- Momentum carrying you into the kitchen
- Volleying with a foot touching the line
📘 Official reference: USA Pickleball Rulebook, Section 9.
FAQ
- What is the the kitchen (non-volley zone) in pickleball?
- The non-volley zone (NVZ), nicknamed the kitchen, is the 7-foot area on each side of the net. You may not hit a volley (a ball out of the air) while any part of your body touches the kitchen or its lines. You can stand in the kitchen any time — just not while volleying.
- What are common mistakes with the the kitchen (non-volley zone)?
- Common mistakes include: Stepping on the kitchen line after a volley; Momentum carrying you into the kitchen; Volleying with a foot touching the line.