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Pickleball is a fun and exciting game that is quickly becoming popular among people of all ages and experience levels. It’s a fast-paced, easy-to-learn sport that combines elements of ping-pong, tennis, and badminton.
Last weekend, my nephew showed interest in playing pickleball and wanted to know about
my experience. I felt so nostalgic and shared the basic rules, resolution, and some of my
favourite memories with that game. Then I thought, as a senior pickleball player, my
responsibility is to give the newbie an overall guide on it.
Sounds difficult? Don’t worry! Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned veteran, this
guide will provide you with the rules, strategies, benefits, and limitations that pickleball has
to offer. Let’s dive into it.
What is Pickleball? – Long Story Short
Pickleball is a relatively new sport that has taken the world by storm. It’s an incredibly
versatile and enjoyable game.
If you’ve ever been curious about the history of Pickleball and want to know its worldwide
popularity, this section is for you. So, buckle up and get ready to learn the long story short.
Origin: History of Discovering and Naming of Pickleball
The sport of pickleball has a long and interesting history. The story behind the name is widely attributed to the sport’s inventor, Joel Pritchard. In 1965, Joel Pritchard Bell,
and McCallum went on vacation to Bainbridge Island, Washington.
To pass the time, he and his family decided to make up a game using a Wiffle ball and
badminton rackets. After a few rounds, the game became quite competitive and
entertaining. After playing for some time Joel Pritchard jokingly said that it was called
“pickleball”. Because, like pickle, the game was a mixture of other sports.
The name stuck and the rest is history. Today, it is a desired sport for all sorts of
people. It’s also a great way to stay active and have fun.
So far, pickleball can be played indoors or outdoors and is a beautiful way to get the whole
family involved.
Growth
Pickleball continued to grow in popularity in the 1970s and 80s due to the efforts of Pritchard, Bell, and McCallum. The first official tournament of pickleball was held in South
Center Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington in 1976.
To make it globally established and popular, the United States of America Pickleball
Association (USAPA) was formed in 1984.
Popularity
It is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, there are now nearly 4.8 million pickleball players in the country. Besides, pickleball tournaments are also held in many countries around the
world.
It is especially popular with older adults, who appreciate the low-impact nature of the
sport. It is also gaining traction with younger players, who have embraced the game’s
fast-paced nature and competitive spirit.
Playing Pickleball: Equipment, Setup, and Rules
Pickleball is a great activity for all ages and can be easily set up and enjoyed by both
beginners and experienced players. In order to get started, one must understand the basics
of equipment, court size and setup, and the rules and scoring of the game.
A. Required Equipment
In short, you will need a paddle, ball, net, and court.
The most important piece of equipment when it comes to playing pickleball is the paddle.
Paddles come in different sizes and weights. So, it’s important to pick one that best suits
your playing style and skill level. Due to the rising popularity of this sport, high quality manufacturers from other sectors such as aerospace and industrial equipment have begun designing their own blank pickleball paddle molds. Serious players can now purchase top of the line pickleball paddles made with the best and most cutting-edge composite materials.
After that, pickleball balls are necessary for the game and typically come in a set of four. The court should be marked with a net to separate the two sides, while the ball should be
served diagonally across the net.
B. Court Size and Setup
Pickleball courts can vary in size depending on the available space, but generally speaking,
the court should be at least 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. The net should be hung at a
height of 36 inches in the center and slightly lower on the sides.
Besides, this Game court should also be marked with a non-slip surface, such as a court
or gym floor, to ensure safe play.
C. Rules and Scoring
The rules and scoring of pickleball are fairly straightforward, but there are still a few
important regulations that players should be aware of. Here are the 5 basic rules of
the game.
1. Serve
The serve must be hit diagonally from one side of the court to the other. The serve must be
hit underhand and must bounce on the ground first before going over the net. The player
must also wait for their opponent to be ready before serving.
2. Volleys
Volleys are not allowed in pickleball. After the service has been hit, the ball must bounce on
the ground before either player can hit it.
3. Doubles
Pickleball can be played as either singles or doubles. In doubles, there is a no-volley zone
seven feet from the net. This means that no volleys can be hit within that area.
4. Keep the Ball in Play
The ball must stay in play throughout the rally and it cannot touch the ground or any
surface outside of the court. If the ball hits the net or is hit out of bounds, the other player
gets the point.
5. Point Scoring
The first team to 11 points wins the game unless one team has a two-point lead in which
case they win the game. It can be played to 15 points (win by 2) or 21 points (win by 2).
Your team will score when the opposite team won’t be able to return the ball or hit so fast
and the ball goes out of the court.
5 Surprising Benefits of Playing Pickleball
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there are many benefits to playing
pickleball. Here are 5 of them.
Social Interaction
Pickleball is a great way to meet new people and foster meaningful relationships. Whether
you join a local pickleball league or just have a game with friends, the social interaction that comes with playing it is invaluable.
Moreover, the relaxed and encouraging atmosphere of pickleball helps promote the growth
of relationships and encourages players to stay connected.
Variety of Skill Levels
Pickleball is an extremely versatile game that can be played at different skill levels.
Beginners can learn the basics of the game quickly, while experienced players can practice
more advanced techniques.
Exercise
Playing pickleball is a great way to stay active and get some exercise. The nature of the
game requires players to move around the court, which helps to get the heart rate up and burn calories.
Additionally, It is a low-impact sport, meaning it is easier on the joints than other
more intense sports.
Strategy
It requires strategy and skill to be successful. Players must think ahead and be able to
anticipate their opponent’s moves. This type of thinking is beneficial, as it helps players to
develop their cognitive and problem-solving skills.
Competition
Finally, it is a great way to have some friendly competition. Players can compete against
each other or even against themselves to improve their skills. This can be a great way to
boost confidence and have some fun.
How is Pickleball Different from Other Sports?
Why Pickleball is so Popular?
Pickleball is easier to learn than tennis, and it moves more slowly and covers less ground. You could fit almost four padel courts on one tennis court, and most people play doubles. Some research shows that it may also be safer for people with heart problems than tennis.
Is it Growing for an Olympic Future?
Limitations/Challenges
● Paddles, balls, and nets can be more expensive than other court sports
● It can be physically demanding for players who aren’t used to the sport
Conclusion
So far, pickleball is a fun and easy sport for all ages and skill levels, with simple rules,
accessible strategies, and plenty of opportunities for friendly competition. Whether you are
a beginner or a seasoned player, there is something for everyone in this exciting game.
With its growing popularity, it is a great way to get active, make friends, and have a good
time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pickleball
Are there any special rules for pickleball?
Yes, there are special rules for pickleball, such as no volleying the ball over the net on the
serve, and the two-bounce rule.
What are some common strategies for playing pickleball?
Common strategies for playing pickleball include keeping the ball low and working with
your partner to make sure your team always has control of the court.
How do I keep score when playing this Game?
To keep score in pickleball, the first team to reach 11 points wins the game.
Is It an easy game to learn?
The best way to become a better pickleball player is to practice and play as much as
possible. You can also look into attending clinics and lessons to learn more about
the game.
Is pickleball as hard as tennis?
It isn’t as intense or physical as tennis, so it’s less likely to hurt you than tennis. Most games are played at the same speed, and there is less movement.
Is pickleball in the Olympics?
Pickleball is not a sport in the Olympics. Even though it’s a growing sport, it needs to be played in 75 countries on four continents (for men) or 40 countries on three continents (for women) to become an official Olympic sport.
Where is pickleball most popular in the world?
Florida. Naples, Florida, has unofficially been called the Pickleball Capital of the World. There are more and more players in the city, and the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championship is held there every year. There are also 60 well-kept courts at the Naples Pickleball Center.
Is It a healthy sport?
Pickleball is a good way to get a good aerobic workout without putting as much stress and strain on your joints and muscles. Endorphins and other amines are released when you exercise. They can help boost your self-esteem and fight depression, both of which can happen as you get older.
Why do old people love this Game?
A 2018 study of 153 people who compete in pickleball tournaments found that playing it is significantly linked to a low level of depression in older adults. Casper says that pickleball can help retirees feel like they still have something to do after they stop working.
