Swing Into Summer: Why Everyone is Playing Pickleball

With the summer months on the horizon, you might be thinking of some new ways to get outside and be active while the sun is shining. The problem is, taking up a new activity or sport can be intimidating, expensive, and tricky to learn. Luckily, there’s a growing sport craze everyone seems to be talking about that bypasses all these challenges – you guessed it, it’s pickleball.

Getting into the Game

Pickleball is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s typically played in “doubles” with two players on each team. The only equipment required is a paddle, a plastic ball with holes, and access to a court. Thanks to its rise in popularity, you will find many community centres now offer designated pickleball courts or at least have adapted tennis courts for pickleball players.

If you’re a newcomer and want to get more familiar with the game, consider signing up for beginner lessons to learn the basics: rules, how to serve, scorekeeping, proper court movement, and more. If that isn’t an option, watching tutorials on YouTube is another great (and cheap) alternative that can explain the fundamentals and provide useful tips. And if you have a friend who is already a picklehead and willing to teach you the ins and outs of the game – even better!

The best part about pickleball is you don’t need to be particularly athletic to play. While having quick reflexes and agility does help, understanding strategy and positioning can be just as important. That’s why it’s such an accessible sport for all ages and abilities – speed or strength can still be outmatched by smart play and technique. It’s a fun challenge for everyone!

The Perks of Pickleball

The game of pickleball offers many benefits for physical and mental health, especially for older adults. A study from the University of Manitoba found pickleball players spend over 70% of the game in a “moderate to vigorous heartrate zone,” contributing to excellent cardiovascular health.[1] While it will get your heart racing, it is also a low-impact sport, making it easier on the joints compared to activities like tennis or running. When played regularly, pickleball can help improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, all of which help reduce the risk of falls and injuries as we age.

Pickleball is also highly engaging for the brain. The strategy and split-second decisions involved help stimulate cognitive function, while remembering the rules and keeping score of the game can improve memory. This is also a great activity for maintaining hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, forcing you to react quickly to a fast-moving ball and coordinate paddle movements.[2]

This activity is also an excellent way to combat loneliness and isolation. Pickleball is a social sport and a great opportunity to make new friends in your community, perhaps even other retirees with whom you can play on a regular basis. But it’s not just a good way grow your network — the social aspect of pickleball can boost feelings of wellbeing and satisfaction and reduce our risk of depression and anxiety.[3] There is also the sense of accomplishment that comes from learning a new skill, combined with the joy of regular interaction with like-minded peers. If you’ve been curious about playing the game but have been holding yourself back – give it a go! You might just become a seasoned pickler.

Resources for Picklers

Ready to play? Click on our pickleball resource guide to find leagues, public courts, and recreation centres in your community to set up your next game. We hope you enjoy a whole new world of pickleball!

Not convinced? Get a firsthand look from a real player, and read ARTA member Martin Ciesielski’s take on why everyone should give it a shot!