Pickleball might have been subjected to senior living homes for easy physical activity before the summer of 2023, but now pickleball is the number one fastest-growing sport in America according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).
Just because the sport exploded throughout the nation in 2023, it doesn’t mean that pickleball was invented yesterday! The sport was created in 1965 by three couples looking to occupy their children on a rainy summer day. However, since 1965 the sport has evolved into a game primarily played by adults getting their exercise in with an explosion in pickleball courts being built all over the country! The game requires minimal equipment and basic skill. With the equipment being a plastic paddle and a plastic ball resembling a Wiffle ball. The game is a fusion of tennis and ping pong, making it a manageable and user-friendly sport.
How To Play Pickleball
Pickleball Equipment
First, let’s take a look at what you must have to play pickleball. You will need a paddle similar to a large ping-pong paddle, a ball similar to a wiffleball but smaller and heavier, and lastly a court, similar to a badminton court measuring 20×44 feet, and a net that is 3 feet tall.
Pickleball Rules
Now that we have the equipment list, let’s discuss the rules. Pickleball has basic rules that make it easy for people of all ages to play, the first rule is about serving. Serving must be underhand, with the paddle below the waist. The server continues to serve until they commit a fault, which is when the ball goes out of bounds or into the net. Next is scoring, games are typically played to 11, 15, or 21 points, a team must win by 2 points and only the serving team can score points.
The Double Bounce Rule, Non-Volley Zone, & Faults
After each serve the ball must bounce at least once on the opposing team’s side before being allowed to hit the ball back to the other side of the court. On each side of the court, there is a 7-foot zone right before the net where players are not allowed to volley the ball (hit the ball in the air without letting it bounce). Faults occur when the ball is hit out of bounds, into the net, not clearing the net, or volleying in the non-volley zone.
5 Reasons You Should Play Pickleball
There are many reasons why people across America should try pickleball, however we have 5 reasons why Americans should be playing the sport more than ever with it’s spike in popularity
Low-Impact Exercise
Pickleball is an excellent low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints, making it a fantastic option for people of all ages, especially seniors. Unlike more strenuous racquet sports like tennis, pickleball provides a fun and engaging way to stay active without putting too much stress on the knees, hips, and ankles. This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to maintain their physical fitness while minimizing the risk of injury.
Cardiovascular Health
Playing pickleball is a great way to get your heart pumping and improve your cardiovascular health. The continuous movement and quick bursts of activity during a game help to increase heart rate, which can strengthen the heart muscle and improve circulation. Regular participation in pickleball can help reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart health.
Mental Health Benefits
Pickleball is not only good for the body but also for the mind. Engaging in regular physical activity like pickleball can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The social nature of the game, combined with the physical exercise, releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Playing pickleball can also improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline, making it a great activity for mental well-being.
Social Interaction
One of the most appealing aspects of pickleball is its social nature. It is a game that encourages interaction and camaraderie among players. Whether you’re joining a local pickleball club or playing with friends and family, the sport provides ample opportunities to meet new people, strengthen friendships, and build a sense of community. The social connections formed on the pickleball court can lead to lasting friendships and a more fulfilling social life.
Enhanced Brain Function
Pickleball is not just a physical workout; it’s also a mental workout. The game requires strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and constant focus, which can help enhance brain function. Engaging in this kind of mental exercise can improve cognitive abilities, such as reaction time, memory, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the social interaction and competitive nature of pickleball can stimulate brain activity and promote mental sharpness. Regularly playing pickleball can contribute to better brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
Embrace the Pickleball Craze!
Now that you’re familiar with the basics of pickleball and the essential gear required, the next step is to find the perfect spot to play. If you’re struggling to locate a suitable venue, fear not! All American Courts specializes in providing top-notch pickleball and multisport courts. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring this exciting and rapidly growing sport to your own backyard. Contact us today to receive a quote for your upcoming project and join the pickleball revolution!
