As a physician assistant, I talk a lot about the importance of staying active. I also try to live that advice myself. One of my favorite ways to stay moving, have fun, and unwind is by playing pickleball. I started playing as a way to fit in some quick exercise, and now I play regularly. It has quickly become one of my favorite activities, and I’m not alone. Pickleball is exploding in popularity, and it’s easy to see why.
Here are five reasons why everyone’s talking about pickleball and why you might want to give it a shot too.
1. It’s Easy to Learn
One of the best things about pickleball is how beginner-friendly it is. The court is smaller than a tennis court, the paddle is lightweight, and the rules are simple enough to pick up in just a few minutes. You don’t need to be super fit or have a background in sports to get started. In fact, many people who try it for the first time are surprised by how quickly they catch on.
2. It’s a Great Workout Without Feeling Like One
Pickleball gets your heart rate up, improves your coordination, and helps build strength and endurance. The beauty is that you’re so focused on the game and having fun, you might not even realize you’re exercising. It’s a low-impact sport, which makes it easier on the joints than running or traditional tennis. That makes it a great option for all ages, including older adults.
3. It’s Social and Fun
This is more than just a solo workout. Pickleball is usually played in doubles, which means you’re sharing the court with others and often meeting new people. The community around the sport is welcoming, laid-back, and surprisingly enthusiastic. Don’t be surprised if you get hooked after just one game.
4. It Helps Relieve Stress
Physical activity is one of the best ways to manage stress, and pickleball adds the bonus of play. There’s something about the back-and-forth rhythm of the game that feels both energizing and calming. You’re focused, moving, and having a good time. If you’ve had a long day or feel overwhelmed, just hitting the ball around for 30 minutes can reset your mood.
5. It Fits Into Busy Schedules
You don’t need hours of free time or a gym membership to play. Many parks, rec centers, and even indoor gyms now have pickleball courts, and a casual game can take as little as 20 to 30 minutes. It’s flexible, easy to fit into a lunch break or evening routine, and doesn’t require a lot of prep or gear. Grab a paddle, some sneakers, and you’re good to go.
If you’re looking for a new way to stay active, connect with others, and have fun doing it, pickleball might be exactly what you need. It’s fun, it’s healthy, and it just might become your new favorite hobby.
So if you see a game happening nearby, don’t just watch from the sidelines. Pick up a paddle and join in. Your heart, your mood, and maybe even your social life will thank you.
