Do You Pickleball?
Two of my clients recently started playing pickleball and they absolutely LOVE it. They cannot say enough about how fun it is, how easy it is to learn (especially with a little bit of instruction), what a great workout they get, how friendly everyone is, etc.
If you haven’t tried it already, perhaps it’s time. Pickleball is the fastest growing sports in the United States!
It’s played on a badminton size court with a net lower than in tennis. Players use what look like big ping pong paddles and a ball similar to an oversized wiffle ball.
It’s relatively easy to learn and can be played outdoors or indoors. Players are essentially hitting the ball back and forth over the net. There are definitely some foundational rules to the game and there is certainly skill involved, however with an understanding of the basics, almost anyone can start playing immediately.
The games are very social and create great camaraderie among players. “Pickleballers” seem to be incredibly friendly and willing to explain the game to newcomers. It also seems to be a game with a wonderful amount of encouragement and support between all players on the court.
Another appealing aspect of the game is that it can be played by any age group. It started out in senior communities but is now being taught to kids in physical education classes. What a great way to spend time with grandchildren!
Many parks have converted their tennis courts into pickleball courts or have added courts on the edges of parking lots. Since the pickleball courts are smaller in size, players are closer to one another and there is a lot less running around the court than in tennis.
If you are looking for competitive play however, this game also offers a great cardio workout. Much of the game is played somewhat close to the net and is more about strategy than speed or power.
If you’d like to learn more about pickleball, check out this 90 second video. It’s a great summary of the game in action and even has a little bit of history thrown in. This site also had some great tips to help you get started purchasing equipment and even how to set up your own court.
Many towns also run pickleball clinics where they will teach you the rules of the games and help you to develop the skills to become more competitive in your play.
As a newbie pickleballer myself, I just signed up for a clinic in Northampton. Come learn with me!! OR NOT, as I mistakenly signed up for a clinic in Northampton, PA (thanks Tania, clearly haste makes waste!)
I am now considering just getting certified as a Pickleball Instructor. Send me a comment if you’re interested in learning and I’ll get on that.
Action Steps:
If you’re new to pickleball and have been looking for a more interesting way to exercise, be more social and spend time outside, check out a local pickleball clinic in your area OR let me know that we need a certified instructor!
If you already play pickleball, keep at it and bring more of your friends and family members into the game.
