Why Pickleball Is Seeing a Pandemic Boom
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people worldwide to stay at home, leading to a surge in interest in various indoor and outdoor activities. One of the sports that has seen a pandemic boom is pickleball [1]. Pickleball is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played either individually or in pairs, indoors or outside. In this article, we will explore why pickleball has become so popular during the pandemic and what makes it such an attractive sport for people of all ages.
The Rise of Pickleball
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played on a court with a net and a ball, with players using paddles to hit the ball over the net [1]. Pickleball can be played either indoors or outside, on any flat surface, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
The Growth of Pickleball During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to people seeking new ways to stay active and healthy while adhering to social distancing guidelines. Pickleball has been an attractive sport for many, as it can be played outdoors and provides an opportunity to engage in physical activity while maintaining a safe distance from others. According to the Sport and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball participation grew by a whopping 21.3% last year as Americans looked for new ways to stay active during the pandemic [3]. In fact, pickleball has become the fastest-growing sport in America during the pandemic, with millions of people playing this low-impact tennis-like sport [4].
The Appeal of Pickleball
Low-Impact Sport
One of the main reasons why pickleball has become so popular during the pandemic is that it is a low-impact sport. Unlike traditional tennis, which can be hard on the joints, pickleball is easier on the body, making it an attractive sport for people of all ages, particularly seniors [5]. Pickleball requires less running and jumping than tennis, and the ball is lighter, making it easier to hit and control. This low-impact aspect has made it an attractive sport for people recovering from injuries or those who want to stay active without putting too much strain on their bodies.
Inexpensive and Easy to Learn
Another factor that has contributed to the popularity of pickleball during the pandemic is that it is an inexpensive and easy sport to learn. Pickleball equipment, such as paddles and balls, is relatively cheap, and the sport can be played on any flat surface, making it accessible to anyone. Additionally, pickleball is easy to learn, with many people picking up the basics in just a few minutes [1]. This ease of learning and accessibility has made pickleball an attractive sport for people looking to try something new during the pandemic.
Social Aspect
Finally, pickleball has a significant social aspect that has contributed to its popularity during the pandemic. Pickleball can be played individually or in pairs, making it an ideal sport for people looking to stay active while maintaining social distance.
Additionally, many people have found that pickleball is a great way to meet new people and make friends. The sport’s social aspect has made it an attractive option for people looking to combat loneliness and isolation during the pandemic.
The Future of Pickleball
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Pickleball’s popularity shows no signs of slowing down. The sport’s low-impact nature, accessibility, and social aspect have made it an attractive option for people of all ages and abilities, particularly seniors [5]. According to a recent report by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball is currently the fastest-growing sport in America [4]. The report also revealed that more than 4.2 million Americans played pickleball in 2020, a significant increase from 3.3 million in 2019.
Pickleball’s Impact on the Industry
The rise of pickleball has also had a significant impact on the sports industry. Many companies have started producing pickleball equipment, including paddles, balls, and apparel, to meet the growing demand. Some companies have even started sponsoring professional pickleball players, with the sport’s popularity increasing exponentially [4].
The Future of Pickleball Tournaments
As the popularity of pickleball continues to grow, so does the number of tournaments and competitions held worldwide. The USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) currently organizes many tournaments, including the US Open Pickleball Championships, which attract top players from around the world [1]. As the sport’s popularity continues to increase, it is likely that more tournaments will be organized, providing players with the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pickleball’s popularity has grown significantly during the pandemic. Its low-impact nature, accessibility, and social aspect have made it an attractive sport for people of all ages and abilities, particularly seniors. As the sport’s popularity continues to increase, it is likely that more people will start playing, and more tournaments will be organized, making pickleball an exciting sport to watch and play.
