Why is pickleball so popular?

I recently played pickleball for the first time. I’ve been hearing about this game a lot in the past five years or more, and pickleball courts are popping up everywhere. Still, I am not particularly athletic…at least when it comes to sports that require hand-eye coordination…so I didn’t pay much attention to all the hubbub around pickleball.

My husband had expressed interest a couple of years ago, so I bought the basic equipment for his birthday gift. I told him I was willing to try it out, but was too self-conscious to go anywhere that uses the open-play style, where I may have to display my lack of talent in front of strangers. Life got busy, and we never pursued it.

Then recently a park near us put in four outdoor courts, and our next-door neighbors started playing there. The courts aren’t too busy yet, especially with the heat we’ve been experiencing, so when they invited us to join them, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to give it a try.

We’ve played a couple of times now, and guess what…I liked it! I’m not good at it, but I’m not as terrible as I thought I would be, and I enjoy playing.

That got me thinking, what is different about pickleball from other sports and why is it so popular?

Why is pickleball so popular?

1. It’s a gentle learning curve. The courts are smaller than tennis, and you don’t have to run as much. The balls are large and light, so easier to hit, and the underhand serve is not difficult to master. That’s not to say there is no learning curve, but if I can do it, you can too.
2. It’s a game for all ages. Children enjoy it, young adults enjoy it, and seniors do too. This is a game the whole family can get into. It’s low impact and relatively easy on the joints. 
3. It’s accessible. Courts are going in everywhere…indoors and out. Many, like the one in my neighborhood, are free to use. The basic equipment is inexpensive. All you really need is the paddle and balls. Of course, you will want comfortable shoes and clothing that you can move in.
4. It’s a social game. Because the courts are smaller and the pace a little slower than most other sports, you can socialize with the people with whom you are playing. Also, many courts use an open-play style where teams (or individuals) switch off with each other, and you can get to know other people who enjoy the game. That said, for an introvert just learning, like me, that is not a selling point. I prefer the small courts where I can play with the people with whom I am already comfortable.
5. It’s good for your health. While pickleball isn’t necessarily a strenuous workout, it is physical activity in a way that is enjoyable without a high risk of injury.

Your turn

1. Do you play pickleball? If so, what is it you like about the game?
2. Do you enjoy playing team sports in general? Which ones?
3. Do you like pickles?
4. What else is on your mind? Anything at all; I just love to hear from you.

Feature image: https://pixabay.com/users/nils9three-10462208