Pickleball: A Growing Sport with Health Benefits and Accessibility
Pickleball is a paddle sport that has quickly become one of the most popular sports in the United States. It is a combination of tennis, ping pong, badminton and racquetball, and is played on a badminton-sized court with a perforated plastic ball and paddles roughly twice the size of table tennis paddles.[0] The game is easy to learn and fast-paced, making it appealing to people of all ages and physical abilities.[1] On either side of the net, there is an area referred to as “the kitchen,” which is a no-volley zone.[1]
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, there were 4.8 million pickleball players in the United States in 2021.[2] This number has risen exponentially in the last few years due to its accessibility, social nature, and relatively low learning curve. Additionally, the sport is incredibly popular in San Diego, where it has converted players of all ages and abilities by the thousands.
In addition to its popularity, pickleball is also recognized for its health benefits.[3] A study by Western State Colorado University found that playing pickleball three times a week for one hour for six weeks resulted in improved blood pressure and cardiorespiratory fitness.[2] Dr. Erica Gaertner, a primary care sports medicine physician with the LifeBridge Health Sports Medicine Institute in Maryland, says that pickleball is a good activity as it allows for aerobic movement with less stress on the joints compared to other racquet sports.
In an effort to make pickleball more accessible, many cities are creating permanent pickleball courts in their parks.[4] Hall Park in St. Louis, for example, has dual-use courts that can accommodate up to 24 players.[5] Additionally, Richard Chaifetz is bringing Major League Pickleball to St. Louis, which is sure to bring even more attention to the sport.
Overall, pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that is beloved for its accessibility and health benefits. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned pro, pickleball is an exciting way to get some exercise and have some fun.
0. “Pickleball mania takes hold in the Isle area | Mille Lacs Messenger …” www.messagemedia.co, 25 Jan. 2023, https://www.messagemedia.co/millelacs/pickleball-mania-takes-hold-in-the-isle-area/article_72af1e76-9740-11ed-8b32-47770026367f.html
1. “The Rise of Pickleball | Moffly Media” mofflylifestylemedia.com, 25 Jan. 2023, https://mofflylifestylemedia.com/the-rise-of-pickleball/
2. “Health Benefits of Pickleball: Research Shows Improved Fitness …” www.onfocus.news, 25 Jan. 2023, https://www.onfocus.news/health-benefits-of-pickleball-research-shows-improved-fitness-lowers-risk-of-depression/
3. “Pickleball Is Picking Up: Instructors Say It's Healthy for Both Mind …” www.jewishtimes.com, 25 Jan. 2023, https://www.jewishtimes.com/pickleball-is-picking-up-instructors-say-its-healthy-for-both-mind-and-body/
4. “Ace Pickleball Club to Debut First Indoor Pickleball Franchise …” www.franchisetimes.com, 25 Jan. 2023, https://www.franchisetimes.com/franchise_news/ace-pickleball-club-to-debut-first-indoor-pickleball-franchise/article_0685ad26-98f5-11ed-9e5c-57770fdf47c9.html
5. “Pickleball pilot program sparks excitement in Milpitas | The Milpitas …” milpitasbeat.com, 25 Jan. 2023, https://milpitasbeat.com/pickleball-pilot-program-sparks-excitement-in-milpitas/