MEET YOU ON THE COURT
Pickleball Becomes One of the Fastest Growing Sports
With its catchy name, low cost, and social nature, it’s no wonder pickleball is the new “it” sport for all ages. It’s a fun physical activity for ages six and up that can also boost mental wellness. The popular pastime that combines tennis, ping-pong, and badminton has been a big hit in the US and Canada, with a more recent expansion abroad. Read on for more about this hybrid game that’s the latest craze.
This modern-day marvel shows a little improvisation can go a long way. According to USA Pickleball, the game began in 1965 when Joel Pritchard (a congressman from Washington State) and Bill Bell (a successful businessman) could not find enough rackets for badminton, so they played with ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. The net would later be lowered to thirty-six inches. Soon, Barney McCallum would be introduced to the game and the three men created rules that were similar to badminton. Pritchard’s wife, Joan, came up with the name as a reference to the thrown-together crew—the “pickle boat”—in rowing races.
Considered a friendly game that is easy to learn, pickleball can be played by different ages and different skill levels. TikTok reintroduced the game to younger generations who also appreciate its appeal. The trendy sport can be enjoyed by the whole family while on vacation or closer to home. Flexibility allows two players for singles or four players for doubles. Participants are said to have a lower chance of injury than more strenuous activities like tennis (but it’s not without risk). According to the Mayo Clinic Press, health benefits include improved hand-eye coordination, strength, and agility.
Pickleball courts and teams can be found at recreation venues like community centers and country clubs. Other options may include local parks and gyms. The sport has been in such demand that commercial spaces are now dedicated to the game where you can learn to play and make new friends, too. Like tennis, pickleball courts can be indoors or out. Games range from casual to competitive, so it helps to know your preference to find the right fit. USA Pickleball is a good resource along with social media sites like Facebook to find groups near you. Word of mouth and apps like PicklePlay can also help you connect with players in your community.
With a smaller court size, lighter equipment, and simpler rules than tennis, Pickleball is a great icebreaker and community sport that keeps people coming back for more.
Gear Heads
Some facilities may provide pickleball equipment, but players can purchase their own gear from sporting goods stores and online sources. For design enthusiasts, pickleball paddles come in fun selections that include checked and floral patterns for more personalization. Some sets come with perforated balls, too. Pickleball bags keep essentials together, making them easy to scoop up when you’re off to another game. Kits that include a net can be set up in a driveway for a grad party or a weekend game with friends and neighbors. As for the right attire, players are advised to dress for comfort and mobility with athletic wear, and get proper footwear, such as court shoes, for better traction and stability.
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Written by Jeanine Matlow
Photography provided by andreswd/E+/Getty Images