If you’ve heard people raving about pickleball and you're wondering what all the fuss is about — you’re in the right place.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, but with a few twists that make it easier to learn and more accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. Played on a smaller court with a perforated plastic ball and solid paddles, pickleball is fun, fast-paced, and incredibly social.
A Quick History of Pickleball
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by a group of friends looking to create a backyard game for their families. Since then, it has grown into a global sport, especially booming in the United States, where courts are popping up in neighbourhoods, schools, and retirement communities everywhere.
Why Is Pickleball So Popular?
- Easy to Learn: You can pick up the basics in under 30 minutes.
- Low Impact: It's easy on the joints, making it ideal for all ages.
- Social: Often played in doubles, pickleball encourages community and connection.
- Fun and Addictive: With quick rallies and satisfying shots, it’s hard not to fall in love with the game.
How Is Pickleball Played?
Pickleball is played on a court measuring 6.1 metres wide by 13.4 metres long — about the size of a badminton court — with a net slightly lower than in tennis. Players use paddles to hit a wiffle-style ball over the net, aiming to score points by landing the ball in the opponent’s side or forcing an error.