Why You Should Be Playing Pickleball

Are you looking for a fun way to spice up your social life? Have you been searching for a game that combines friendly competition, exercise, and socializing, all in one? Look no further, because pickleball might just be the answer you've been looking for!!

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a unique and exciting paddle sport that is taking the country by storm. It incorporates elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong and is played on a mini tennis court (the lines are layed out differently) with a glorified wiffle ball and a paddle. Sidebar: do not call your pickleball paddle a racquet or you will immediately out yourself as a rookie.

Because of the ratio of the paddle and ball size and how slowly it moves when you lightly hit it, literally almost everyone can play pickleball. It's up to you if you choose to become an intermediate or advanced player, or if you wanna be a fundamental pickler who goes out for camaraderie, movement and brain health. However you decide to play it, you're in!

Pickleball is all about having a good time while engaging in some healthy competition. And since it's adaptable for participants of all ages and skill levels, it's the perfect game for anybody!

Benefits of Playing Pickleball

Social Interaction

Pickleball is not just a game; it's a social experience. Because it's primarily a doubles sport, pickleball offers ample opportunities to meet new people and strengthen bonds with friends. One of my groups calls it Giggleball because we snort and laugh so much. The social aspect of pickleball is what sets it apart from other sports – the camaraderie and friendly banter can quickly turn strangers into friends. It's likely you will meet some of your ride or die friends on the court.

women high fiving in pickleball

Health Benefits

Blending pickleball into your routine is a fantastic way to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The game involves quick movements, strategic plays, and a good dose of cardio, balance and agility, ensuring that you get your heart rate up and your body moving. What’s more, pickleball provides a low-impact exercise option, reducing the risk of injuries compared to higher-impact sports.

Mental Stimulation

Pickleball is not just physically engaging; it also requires mental acuity and strategic thinking. From anticipating your opponent's moves to executing targeted shots, pickleball challenges your mind and keeps you on your toes.

Dr. Daniel Amen, renowned brain studier, touts that people who play pickleball, or racquet sports in general, actually live longer. The reason for this? The cerebellum is responsible for ten percent of the brain function, but more than half of the brain's neurons. Racquet sports require a lot of thinking-reflexes, strategy, physical activity and it does all of this!!

Here is the paraphrased article from Dr. Amen. Read the full article here

1. Improves blood flow to the brain.

Running around on a pickleball court gets your heart pumping, which boosts blood flow to the brain.

2. Enhances cerebellum function.

The footwork and hand-eye coordination required to play pickleball activate the cerebellum.

3. Increases gray matter.

Research from Brazil shows that physical activity that requires planning—such as deciding whether to smash the ball or dink it softly over the net—and complex movements result in higher gray matter volume.

4. Strengthens the hippocampus.

Getting your body moving protects the hippocampus and gives your memory a workout by making players remember the score and whose serve it is. Sounds simple, but scoring in this sport isn’t as easy as it seems, and it can be a real head-scratcher for beginners.

5. Produces mood-boosting neurochemicals.

Playing heart-pumping sports like pickleball allows more of the natural mood-enhancing amino acid L-tryptophan to enter the brain. The researchers also say that physical activity is an effective treatment alternative for anxiety disorders.

6. Reduces cognitive impairment.

Physical exercise of any kind, such as pickleball, helps protect against cognitive decline and dementia.

7. Keeps the brain younger.

The social bonding that comes with playing a group activity like pickleball helps combat loneliness and boosts mood.

Anyone Can Play

One of the most appealing aspects of pickleball is its accessibility. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, pickleball offers something for everyone. The rules are straightforward, and the court is smaller than a tennis court, making it easier for players of all ages to navigate and enjoy.

Creates Unlikely Champions

In the world of pickleball, anyone can become a champion. You don’t need years of training or exceptional athletic ability to excel at this game. Pickleball is all about strategy, precision, and having fun on the court. It’s not uncommon to see players of different ages and backgrounds coming together to compete and win medals.

How to Get Started

Excited to dive into the world of pickleball? Here's how you can get started:

• Talk to a Pickleballer friend: It's likely you know someone who plays who can point you into a good place to get started.

  
  

• Find a local pickleball court : Many community centers, recreational facilities, and even some parks have dedicated pickleball courts. They will ususally have websites that describe open play times and for what levels.

  
  

• Join a pickleball group : Connect with fellow pickleball enthusiasts by joining a local pickleball group or club. This is a great way to meet like-minded individuals, improve your skills, and participate in friendly matches.

  
  

• Take lessons : If you're new to pickleball or want help with your mechanics, consider taking lessons from a certified instructor. Learning the fundamentals of the game can boost your confidence and enhance your overall experience.

  
  

• Invest in quality gear : While pickleball equipment is relatively simple – a paddle, ball, and appropriate footwear – investing in quality gear can significantly impact your game.

  WARNING: A paddle and shoe addiction may ensue.

  
  

• Footwear: It's VERY IMPORTANT to wear court shoes so you don't roll your ankles. Go to a place where you can try some on. Skechers, KSwiss, Nike and Mizuno are well made and comfortable.

  
  

• Paddles: There are so many paddles out there and with technology advancing, more will keep coming. Try before you buy. Usually friends will let you try out a spare they have. I love the demo programs at Pickleball Galaxy and Gearbox where you can rent paddles for a week and try them out.

Final Thoughts

Pickleball is more than just a game; you will quickly realize that after a few hours on the court. It's lifestyle that many of us couldn't live without now. It's what we do with friends, how we feel young and alive, and what gets some of us out of bed early in the morning.

No, it does not define us, but it makes life a whole lot better!

Whether you're looking to make new friends, stay active, or simply have a great time, pickleball offers a whole new world of benefits for people of all ages and backgrounds. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a paddle, hit the court, and discover the magic of pickleball today!