Why Pickleball Is Great for All Ages

Pickleball is one of the world’s fastest-emerging sports, and it’s not because of the funny name. It contains elements of several other popular activities, including tennis, pingpong and badminton. This versatility makes it more accessible to children, old folks and everyone in between. Here are five reasons why pickleball has been a success among all age groups.

Pickleball Prevents the Onset of Chronic Conditions

Chronic disease prevention doesn’t start in adulthood. It’s a lifelong endeavor that requires making the right health choices every day. The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of activity daily, and pickleball is an easy way for people to do so. Hitting this threshold lowers the risk of obesity, heart disease, dementia and certain types of cancer.

Every age group has something to gain from playing pickleball. Kids can get healthier and stronger as they grow. Young adults can stay in good shape to keep up with their other responsibilities. Seniors can stay on their feet and be independent well into their 70s and 80s. The rate of chronic conditions plummets when people are physically active.

Pickleball is a Player-Friendly Sport

Although every generation has taken a liking to pickleball, older people have become the sport’s main demographic. People aged 55+ make up 52% of the player base, and almost 33% are older than 65. Pickleball courts are a modest 20-by-44 feet, which is much easier for players to navigate than a 78-by-27 tennis court.

You also don’t need exceptional athletic abilities to play pickleball. You only have to perform basic lateral movements and hit the ball with your paddle. It’s a low-impact sport that doesn’t break down your body like other physically demanding activities. An individual with basic conditioning and hand-eye coordination can play a whole afternoon without much issue.

Pickleball is also less mentally stressful than other sports. Games such as football and basketball can get too extreme. Tennis, baseball and hockey require great skills just to play at an intermediate level. Pickleball’s low difficulty and small court size make it less intense and more enjoyable for casual players. 

Pickleball Improves Your Social Skills

Socialization is also important for everyone, regardless of age. Pickleball can improve your social skills by connecting you to people with a shared interest. The two types of pickleball — singles and doubles — also open the sport to a wider range of personalities. Some people prefer one-on-one matches, while others like the support of a teammate. Pickleball has both options.

Additionally, the small court size makes mid-match communication easy. Teammates can strategize on the fly, and the opposing sides can engage in friendly trash talk without shouting. You’ll find it easy to make new friends in this playful environment. You might even become part of a larger pickleball friend group after just a few matches.

Its Equipment Is Affordable

Sports like football and hockey have unreasonably expensive equipment, but pickleball doesn’t. The necessary items are simple and affordable. You only need a paddle, a ball and a decent pair of pickleball shoes to play at a high level. These expenses can add up to less than $150 with smart shopping. 

Some serious pickleball players also wear eye protection, wristbands and other accessories, but these items aren’t necessary for casual players. You’re better off sticking with the basics. Pickleball isn’t meant to be taken seriously. It’s a simple game for anyone who wants to stay active in their free time. Leave the fancy equipment to the professionals.

Pickleball Games Are Quick

Pickleball is also open to everyone because the matches don’t take long. They usually last about 15 minutes and are sometimes shorter in singles matches. The game also has a simple scoring system that beginners learn after just a few rounds. You can complete more than enough matches in an afternoon to satisfy your pickleball fix. 

Besides, most people don’t want to spend all their free time on one hobby. Pickleball allows you to play without throwing off the rest of your day. This benefit is huge for individuals with other major commitments. Parents, students and everyone with full-time jobs can fit pickleball into their routines without changing their entire schedules.

Try Your Hand at Pickleball

Everyone needs to be active, regardless of their age and personal interests. Pickleball is an affordable and accessible way for anyone to stay healthy and rejuvenate their social lives. Try your hand at pickleball and see firsthand why millions of people have taken up the sport in the last few years.