In 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Congressman Joel Pritchard invented this game to entertain his family member. Only 50 years later, Pickleball becomes the fastest growing sports in the United States and neighboring country. So is why Pickleball so popular?
On our previous article, we discussed, "What is a pickleball?" This time, we will be talking about "Why is pickleball so popular in the United States?"
1.0 A game for everyone - The threshold is low.
Whoever holds a pickleball paddle and has a ball, will hit the ball impulsively. It feels good when you beat the ball. It becomes more fun if someone hits the ball back. Even if you have a paddle for the first time, you can start a simple game after practicing for 30 minutes as an exercise that everyone can enjoy.
2.0 Anyone can start playing right away, but it's deep!
Even if you try pickleball for the first time, you can enjoy the game immediately. Whoever has ever played tennis or table tennis will be able to start pickleball spontaneously.
However, in the first few months, you will realize that a set of skills, game strategy, instantaneous power and speed, stamina, etc. are necessary to win a competitive game. It takes time to master all these elements. But a recreational match doesn't require much practise and strength.
3.0 Risk of injury next to zero
Usually, there is a risk of injury or breakdown in every sport. But in pickleball, the probability of injury is next to zero. A Pickleball paddle weighs about 200g, and the court is smaller than the tennis court, one doesn't need to run around violently. Therefore, it is very unlikely that you will get a tennis elbow, hurt your leg, or have difficulty breathing.
4.0 You can work out the whole body in a very well-balanced manner.
Compared to intense racket sports such as tennis, the stress and impact on the body are milder. The physical exercise ability, instantaneous power, cardiovascular function, range of motion, and concentration are trained. Strengthen shoulder, elbow and knee joints.
Aerobic exercise allows fresh oxygen to enter the body and promote blood circulation, thus pumping fresh oxygen and blood into the brain. It is also ideal for memory training because you have to remember the ever-changing points (scores) throughout the game.
5.0 It's a sport of all age groups
Being a less strenuous sport, it is popular among the seniors who retire from active duty and lead a pension life. Tennis and golf are getting tighter. However, when you try pickleball, you can enjoy a moderate amount of exercise and a refreshing "sports feeling".
The same things are true for kids. Pickleball is suitable for kids as the possibility of injury is very low. In pickleball, both children and the elderly can play together. A 13-years-old kid could beat a 70-years-old, and vice versa.
6.0 A transitioner from tennis to Pickleball. Or both swordsmen (me).
A tennis player needs to stop playing tennis after a certain period, because of surgery on the elbows, knees and hips, and pain in the legs and shoulders. But If you want to continue playing, you should transition into Pickleball.
A lot of experienced "tennis players" has already transitioned into Pickleball. Former Tennis players are doing good at Pickleball, which is fast and has an instant power, and tennis's technique lives on.
7.0 You can make a lot of friends.
Pickleball is a communication place between people, although it may be different from professional-level athletes. Most of the community clubs have pickleball court at their disposal. Tournaments are organizing frequently. So playing pickleball at local community club would help you make new friends, some foes as well (players beaten by you).
8.0 Easy to get started at a low cost without any preparation or big tools
In pickleball, all you need is a paddle, a ball and a pair of sports shoes. The problem is that the pickleball court is still absolutely lacking on a global level. You can do it on a tennis court for recreational play, and you can get a portable prefabricated net online.
Soccer and basketball are the most popular sports tops 1 & 2 globally because both can be played with one ball. Sports that is easy to get started are likely to spread.
9.0 Finally, simply "It's a lot of fun to hit the ball with someone!"
And it feels great to be outdoors in fine weather. Most of the pickleball courts are outdoors in the United States.
There are so many reasons behind pickleball's popularity. However, the most distinctive feature of this sport is its easy to adapt nature. Anyone regardless of ages or physical ability could participate this games like a pro.
It's a pickleball full of good points, but of course, there are some negative opinions, weaknesses, and downsides. Next time, I would like to touch on the negative part.
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