Whether or not you’ve heard the word pickleball, you’ve likely seen people playing. The sport is quickly rising in popularity – it is the fastest growing sport in the United States, growing upwards of 20% since last year. 

So, what is pickleball? Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and ping pong. It is played with solid paddles and a perforated ball, similar to a wiffle ball, on a short solid court with a low net. 

So why should you learn to play?

It’s Good for Your Health

We all know the many benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle – it can reduce our risk of chronic health conditions, improve our mood, help us sleep and much more. Pickleball provides all of these same benefits while also helping to improve your agility and build your stamina. Its low-impact nature makes it a good fit for individuals recovering from injuries or with limited mobility, which ties into our next point. 

Everyone Can Play 

With its short court and lightweight paddles, pickleball is a great game for individuals of all ages and abilities. While its popularity is soaring in the 55+ age group, the multi-generational sport remains fun and challenging for everyone. 

It’s Easy on your Wallet

There is very little equipment needed to play pickleball – namely just a paddle. New courts are popping up in community parks and fitness centers across the country (YGBW has nearly 40 indoor and outdoor courts across Chester County)). Players coming to YGBW branches are invited to borrow paddles from their branch until they are ready to invest in their own. 

You Join a Community

Pickleball is a fun leisure activity that can help you break away from your routine. It cannot be played alone; it is a social sport that brings people together offering a whole community of new friends and teammates. 

It’s so Much Fun!

Pickleball is easy to pick up and brings many benefits – but most of all it's fun! It’s a sport that is consistently challenging – no two matches or two shots are the same. 

Ready to get started? Find out more information on pickleball at the YMCA.