EB Health & Leisure
Give Pickleball a Go: The Benefits of Pickleball
Pickleball is a popular sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. It offers numerous benefits for players of all ages, abilities and skill levels. From improving cardiovascular health to enhancing hand-eye coordination, Pickleball provides a fun way to stay active and most importantly socialise with friends, family and others. We will explore the various advantages of playing pickleball and why it has become a favourite pastime for many people around the world.
Pickleball may have a funny name, but it’s a serious sport that millions of people worldwide enjoy. But where did it come from? “The year was 1965, and the place was Bainbridge Island, Washington. Joel Pritchard, a congressman, and Bill Bell, a businessman, were trying to develop a new game to entertain their families during summer. That’s when Pritchard and Bell had the idea to create a new game that combined badminton, tennis, and table tennis elements.” (Source: https://www.pickleballsplay.com/pickleball-origin/ )
Played indoors at Everybody on a badminton-sized court, with a slightly modified tennis net, two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a hollow perforated polymer ball over a net.
There are many benefits of Pickleball:
1. Available to Everybody
2. Socially Inclusive
3. Exercise Made Easy
4. Improved Overall Health
(Source: https://www.pickleballengland.org/health-benefits-of-pickleball/)
Available to Everybody
We all want to try a new sport that is open to everyone, it makes it easier to get stuck in doesn’t it? Pickleball is a versatile sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you want to hit some balls with your friends, family or other participants, the growing game provides a full-body workout, helping to improve cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility, all at the same time.
Socially Inclusive
Are you looking for a new sport to play after work, on the weekend or in the holidays? One of the key benefits of Pickleball is its social aspect. Whether you’re playing doubles or singles, it offers an opportunity to connect with others in a friendly and competitive environment. This social interaction can help reduce stress, boost our mood and create a sense of community among players. Sounds like the new perfect hobby right?
Exercise Made Easy
Pickleball, a fun and engaging sport, is highly accessible due to its simplicity and minimal equipment requirements. With just a paddle, some balls, and access to a court, anyone can easily pick up the game. Many leisure operators provide facilities for pickleball in local communities, making it convenient for individuals to participate. This ease of access not only encourages people to stay active but also makes it an affordable option for those seeking physical activity without cost pressures.
Improved Overall Health
Imagine playing a sport where it can promote your overall health! The fast-paced nature of Pickleball enhances agility, balance and coordination. The game involves constant movement, which helps burn calories and improve endurance. Playing Pickleball can boost mental health by reducing stress and increasing social interaction. The sport also promotes hand-eye co-ordination and reflexes, contributing to overall physical well-being.
To round things up, Pickleball offers numerous physical, mental and social benefits that make it an appealing choice for individuals seeking an enjoyable way to stay active and connected with others. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness level or simply have fun with friends, Pickleball has something to offer everyone.
Pickleball Rules
– The ball is served underhand from the right side of the court and is played diagonally across to the other service court.
– The defending side has to let the ball bounce first before it can be returned and, subsequently, the serving side also has to let the ball bounce.
– It is only on the third ball that the ball can be returned immediately. Either you can play a volley or you can let the ball bounce first.
– Points can only be scored by the serving side. You win a point if the defending side does not manage to return the ball, hits the ball out, does not let the serve ball bounce, volleys in the non-volley zone, or is hit by the ball.
– The game ends when one of the parties gets 11 points, with a 2-point lead.
(Source: https://www.pickleballengland.org/rules/)
Pickleball Social Sessions at Everybody
Included in your Everybody membership, Pickleball Social is the perfect session to drop in and play a game.
Meet new people and play against friends or other participants. A great way to stay active, improve confidence and try something new.
Develop your game without having to book a court. A fully inclusive session, open to players age 18+ of any ability.
We will match up players, explain the rules with no experience needed. It’s all about having fun!
Pickleball Social Sessions are available at Macclesfield Leisure Centre and Everybody @ Alderley Park.
References:
– Pickleball England, https://www.pickleballengland.org/health-benefits-of-pickleball/ (2023)
– Pickleball England, https://www.pickleballengland.org/rules/ (2024)
– Pickleball Origin Story, https://www.pickleballsplay.com/pickleball-origin/ (2024)
