It has a silly name, improves your mental and cardiovascular health, helps you lose weight, prevents osteoporosis and maintains bone density, improves flexibility and agility, increases your energy, trains your balance and hand-eye coordination, and tones your muscles. You will also make friends playing pickleball anywhere you play. Perhaps this is why Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America.
Invented in a Seattle suburb in 1965, pickleball combines aspects of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s played on a badminton court doubles, and a quarter of the size of a standard tennis court. In the center of the court is a modified tennis net, which is 34 inches high and serves as a divider between the two halves. The paddles it uses are similar to those used for table tennis. Comparable to the Wiffle ball, the pickleball has a round shape. Singles or doubles matches can be played, and new players learn the basics quickly. The smaller court is easier on the body and players sustain fewer injuries than in other sports. It’s perfect for beginners as well as more advanced players who enjoy competitive play. Most importantly, pickleball can be played by anyone, regardless of age or skill level.
The smaller size court allows players to be close enough to each other to hold conversations, making it a great way to bond with family and friends, while also getting a great workout. It’s also affordable. The only thing you need is a court, net, paddle, and ball, and you’re set.
Hopefully, this has made you want to get out and play Pickleball! If you haven’t tried it yet or want to try, check it out now at the JCC.
