Pickleball Has Ingrained Itself Almost Everywhere. Why Should You Play in 2024?
Last Edited
Aug 08 2024
Category
Community
Pickleball was originally just a made up game for one bored family to pass the time.
Now, it's a cultural phenomenon, appearing in media, fostering major investments, and expanding internationally.
Countless online communities surrounding the sport have cropped up, with members discussing the most granular of subtopics. Even the sport's name is hotly contested.
So why should YOU play pickleball in 2024?
The Main Reasons to Play Pickleball
First, pickleball is accessible to everyone.
Whether you’re young or old, an athlete or a complete beginner, pickleball truly is one of those games where the design allow novices to have fun while leaving plenty of room for masters to find novelty and new paths to greatness.
Related: Pickleball is Becoming (Even More) Accessible for Those With Disabilities
The rules are simple to learn, and the game is easy on the joints, making it perfect for players of all ages and fitness levels.
On top of that, the sport demonstrates values of adaptability, diversity, & inclusivity:
- It's quick to learn
- It doesn't require tons of mobility to have fun playing
- You can start playing for free in many areas, or at most, for about $20-30
- In the sport's pro scene, some of the top-ranked players are women, and Mixed Doubles is the main event (as opposed to only Men's)
- Its open play culture is, generally, pretty welcoming
Second, pickleball is incredibly social.
It’s a sport that brings people together, whether you’re playing doubles with friends or meeting new players in a local league.
The community aspect of pickleball is one of its strongest draws.
Most communities that offer pickleball to the public tend to report tight social circles resulting from those offerings.
Third, it’s a fantastic way to stay fit without feeling like you’re working out.
Pickleball combines the best elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, giving you a full-body workout that’s as fun as it is effective.
The quick movements, agility drills, and strategic play keep your heart rate up and muscles engaged, all while you’re having a blast.
Related: The Calorie-Burning Power of Pickleball
It’s exercise disguised as entertainment—a win-win for your health and happiness.
What Makes Pickleball Addicting?
You'd be forgiven for watching the pickleball community from the outside and thinking, "these people are addicts." That's a term common among dedicated players.
We wanted to know what keeps people motivated to keep playing pickleball, so we asked our dedicated newsletter readers what keeps them coming back to the courts.
The results speak volumes about the sport’s magnetic appeal:
While some of our readers love the thrill of competition, others are all about the fun and exercise.
But the most common response? They're hooked on everything this sport offers—from the camaraderie on the court to the rush of perfecting a shot.
It’s not just one thing that brings us back; it’s the whole package that makes pickleball irresistible.
Sign up for The Kitchen newsletter here.