Discover the Joy of Pickleball: A Sport for Everyone
Have you ever wanted to try a new way of getting exercise? Perhaps you’ve thought of trying a racquet sport, like badminton or squash. If you’re looking for a racquet sport that is not only sociable but also engages the mind and the body, and gives you an infectious smile in the process, then look no further than pickleball.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball, invented in 1965 as a garden game, has taken the world by storm in recent years. This charming game has been welcomed into tennis clubs and leisure centers across the country, stealing the hearts of players of all ages. Nick, a member of Herne Bay Tennis Club, describes pickleball as "a small version of tennis, with table tennis-like racquets." The objective is simple: keep the ball off the floor on your side of the court using smooth, rectangular paddles while trying to score points against your opponent.
One of the unique features of pickleball is the ball itself, which has holes in it. This design decreases the speed of play and increases the control players have over the ball’s direction. The game can be played both indoors and outdoors on small, badminton-sized courts, making it versatile and accessible.
The Community Aspect
Herne Bay Tennis Club, which opened its pickleball courts in 2022, is one of many outdoor clubs that embrace the elements. The club boasts four outdoor pickleball courts and hosts five regular turn-up-and-play mix-in sessions. Nick shares, "It’s quite nice playing outdoors in some ways because it’s less noisy and more airy. You’re all mucking in together, especially on a windy day – you’re kind of all in it together."
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of what makes pickleball such a wonderful sport. It can be played by people of all ages, generations, and levels of mobility, including wheelchair users. Nick explains, "Because it’s a small court, there isn’t a huge amount of ground to cover, so it lends itself to be accessible to most people. In some of those courts, there’ll be people in their 20s and 30s playing with people in their 60s and 70s." This intergenerational aspect is one of the many reasons why pickleball is so beloved.
The Rise in Popularity
Over the last couple of years, pickleball has seen a dramatic increase in popularity, with over 600 places to play in England alone. Nick believes this growth is due to the sport’s quick learning curve and its inherent fun factor. "It’s a quick sport to learn, and if you have an interest in trying it, you generally like it. It’s a fun sport to play, and people enjoy it," he says.
Health Benefits of Pickleball
Pickleball is not just a fun way to socialize; it also offers numerous health benefits. The game helps build good hand-eye coordination and provides a solid amount of aerobic exercise. Beyond physical fitness, pickleball engages the mind as well. The tactics involved require players to think ahead and respond quickly to their opponents’ shots, enhancing cognitive skills.
A Social Experience
The sociable nature of pickleball is one of its most appealing aspects. Players often stay to chat after matches, fostering a sense of community. Herne Bay Pickleball Club even has a building for tea and coffee after games, highlighting the friendly atmosphere. Nick notes, "I think it’s a really sociable, friendly game, and a lot of people come to it almost because of the social aspect. Someone described it once to me as it’s more a game than a sport, and I think that’s a good way of putting it."
Get Involved
If you’re intrigued by the idea of trying pickleball, you can find out more about the sport and locate your nearest club at Pickleball England. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, meet new people, or simply have fun, pickleball offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
In conclusion, pickleball is more than just a sport; it’s a community experience that brings people together, regardless of age or ability. So grab a paddle, find a court, and discover the joy of pickleball for yourself!