Why Has Pickleball Become So Popular?


Many people have tried to answer that question.

There are multiple reasons, but, after playing it myself, here are my thoughts regarding this question.

1. It is relatively inexpensive to start.

There are public courts available for free in most cities these days. The equipment needed includes a paddle, some balls, sports attire, and decent court shoes.

Now, it is possible to spend a lot of money on the equipment. However, it is also possible to purchase more budget friendly items.

Entry level paddles are often fairly cheap, and balls are not very expensive.

These days many entry level products are sold in bundles.  For example, a bundle may include 4 paddles and 4 balls.  That way 4 people could start playing doubles immediately. These items are also frequently available second-hand through online marketplaces for very cheap.  And don't forget to check garage sales.


2. You can choose opponents with similar skill levels.

The fact is people generally don’t like to “play down” in pickleball. Those looking for a good cardio workout don’t find a good workout with lower skill level opponents.

Those looking to improve their skills can’t do so with lower-level opponents.

Fortunately, with so many people playing, and especially with so many people just starting, it is not hard for beginners to find others of similar skill levels.

And usually, for a few games, those with higher level skills are willing to play lower skilled players and help them learn.

And there is always coaching available, if desired.


3. It is the new video game.

For those with underlying competitive instincts, pickleball is a game that makes you want to improve.

Some of my kids used to play video games over and over and over. I did not understand why until it was explained to me that the games have different levels. Kids were wanting to play more to get to the next level.

Pickleball is the same. It makes you want to get to the next higher skill level. You figure out what skills you need to improve, and you work on them over and over.

In that regard it is like a video game.

No wonder the fastest growing age bracket for pickleball is 18 – 34 year olds.


4. It provides a community.

Pickleball is a very social sport. Many people have made new friends at the local pickleball courts.

There are pickleball clubs available, usually for a small fee. These clubs not only meet to play pickleball, but they also have social events for club members.

It has been shown that playing pickleball regularly helps decrease tendencies to depression.

Many older people who have recently lost a spouse have started playing pickleball. It has been helpful to force them to get out and be around others.

Sharing the game of pickleball gives you something in common with other players. So, in social situations, if there is any difficulty knowing what to talk about, you can always talk about pickleball.


5. It is a great way to exercise.

Let’s face it, for many of us, running alone on the side of the road or on a treadmill is boring. And the time exercising seems to drag.

Pickleball on the other hand is fun. And the time passes very quickly while playing.

Some question whether it is much of a workout. Usually, those who ask that question either haven’t played or aren’t very competitive.

For those who play to improve and who play higher skill level players, it is a great cardio workout.

In addition, it has been shown that, playing pickleball for one hour, three times per week imparts three health benefits:

                              - Decreases blood pressure

                              - Improves cardiorespiratory fitness

                              - Lowers cholesterol

And who doesn’t want better health?

But who can only play for one hour?


So, those are my thoughts on why pickleball has become so popular.

What do you think? What reasons would you give?  You can email me at:  Ben@pickleball-living.com