A new & upcoming sport has arrived, pickleball
Author: Bella Birkeland
More than ever people are looking for new, inventive ways to get fit and have fun at the same time. One of those ways is pickleball. Not only a great way to get exercise but it offers competition in an energetic and social way for people of all ages to enjoy.
At first glance you might be confused, asking yourself, “what is pickleball?” Well, wonder no more as this blog will share this new upcoming sport that maybe even you would like to try! Pickleball has grown in immense popularity over the last few years.
Best explained as a hybrid between tennis, ping pong, and badminton. The court size is similar to a doubles badminton court along with a net that stands at 36 inches with markings that are similar to a tennis court.
First, the pickleball is served underhand, diagonally across the net to the opponent’s side.
Secondly, the opposing team can hit the ball back after it bounces once. This is where the real game begins. After a ball is served and returned, the ball can be hit off the bounce or out of the air. This continues until someone is unable to return the ball or when someone commits a fault. Such as a double bounce, the ball is hit out of bounce, or the ball hits the net. The serving team of the rally can only earn points.
If the serving team wins the rally, they win a point, and the teams switch sides. If the serving team doesn’t win the rally, the serve is given to the opposing team and they're given the chance to win points. Games can be played to 11 or 15 points either played double or single. If you are interested in learning more about Pickleball check out USA Pickleball's website, it’s a great way to connect with some great resources to get you started.
This sport has taken off over the past few years. Because of its competitive nature and being a relatively easy sport to learn, it’s attracted a lot of players. It is also a good means of exercise and time to socialize. As an aerobic workout that provides cardiovascular conditioning without major strain or stress on both muscles and joints. Making this a sport that can be enjoyed by many different age groups. Along with additional benefits such as improved hand-eye coordination. But most importantly it’s a fun sport to play with others.
Pickleball has been increasing in players and popularity. The sport has been seeing lots of growth such as the rise of USA Pickleball, a nonprofit organization that was mentioned above that is dedicated to governing and promoting the sport. Along with two professional tournaments, the Professional Pickleball Association and Association of Pickleball Professionals that offer prize payouts that have led to the rise of professional players in the sport. More gyms and centers are offering classes and courts for people to give them the opportunity to learn more and play the sport.
Overall, pickleball has seen tremendous growth in its popularity. With a sport that’s energetic, social, and a great fitness activity people across numerous ages have truly enjoyed the game. As a sport that can be played both indoors and outdoors anytime is a great time to try this sport out yourself and see how fun it can truly be.
Even for those who are new, pickleball is an easy sport to learn and enjoy. As it offers many benefits to those who play as it offers a sense of competition in a fun way that players can experience over and over again. A sport as fun as this one is definitely worth a try!