While Merriam-Webster foolishly chose “gaslighting” as the word of the year, I like my choice better: pickleball.
The three-syllable noun defined my 2022. I started with the sport in March, yet it feels much longer, and that’s a good thing!
I set a goal to play the sport with minimal expectations. But I fell in love; all-consuming love!
Pickleball addiction is scientifically linked to the “dopamine loop” created by rapid, short rallies and the instant gratification of scoring. Additionally, it fulfills the psychological need for a “Third Place”—a community space outside of home and work—providing social connection and a “flow state” that reduces stress and anxiety.
Over the past year, it has been impossible to escape the pickleball fever that has swept the nation. But, as the fastest-growing sport continues to claim more pickleball addicts, many people are wondering why is pickleball so addictive.
You probably find yourself playing more and more if you are a player. And when you’re not playing pickleball, you are thinking about pickleball or talking about pickleball or dreaming about pickleball. What gives?!
I finally figured out why I’ve run into a bit of a wall on my pickleball journey during one of my casual weekly leagues: I’ve become a marked man.
At first, it was my age. Despite being in my mid-forties, I was one of the younger players. This would often lead to players making excuses about their lack of mobility or agility when losing, but it did not stop them from attempting to slam the ball in my face. I was a target.
We’ve all been told countless times that a basic pickleball strategy is to get to the kitchen ASAP. And it’s great advice! But there’s more to it than just rushing up the court. Getting to the kitchen quickly is important, but effectiveness is key. If you make a poor approach, an experienced player will exploit your error more often than not.
On a picture-perfect, unseasonably warm fall day, I drove across state lines to accomplish a goal I set for myself back in March: to become a certified pickleball instructor.
When choosing a pickleball certification program, you have several options. I decided to go through the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR). The organization has been around for five years and, most importantly, is the official certification partner of USA Pickleball, the national governing body for pickleball in the United States.
Other viable options include certification through the International Federation of Pickleball Academy via a partnership with The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA). There is also pickleball certification through the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA).
With pickleball getting seemingly overhyped across America, many people ask, “why play pickleball?” and wonder if the sport is a passing fad.
As someone who spends a fair share of his time consuming pickleball-related content, one consistent theme is that people either love it or hate it. It’s ironic that such an innocent sport can be so polarizing, but this is just how it is in the 21st century. As with most things in this world, society loves to build things up and tear them down.
However, I advise you not to become a victim of the hype.
Pickleball is fantastic. And the best part is getting out there to play the game.
So while the pundits debate the credibility of pickleball as a sport (it is!), you would be best served to pick up a paddle and play. Here are a few benefits of playing pickleball.
Pickleball paddle weight is an important consideration when choosing your equipment.
Different weights for pickleball paddles offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the weight best suits your needs is essential.
There is no “best” weight for pickleball paddles, as different players have different preferences. However, most experts agree that pickleball paddle weight is a personal preference and that the best way to choose the right weight is to experiment with different weights until you find the one that feels best for you.
One of the beautiful things about playing pickleball regularly is that there is always something new and exciting happening during gameplay.
However, there are some consistent themes, too. Now you can double your fun by playing pickleball and pickleball bingo simultaneously. 🙂 Have you spotted any of the items below?
Play pickleball bingo after your next match! And let us know if you have any additions to the card.
Pickleball Rookie narrows down gift ideas for pickleball players, perfect for any holiday or special occasion, including Mother’s Day and Father’s Day!
We’ve got you covered if you’re searching for unique gifts for pickleball-playing parents. Our comprehensive guide includes everything from pickleball equipment to thoughtful accessories that will delight the pickleball enthusiast in your life, no matter the occasion.
Why not make your favorite pickleball-loving mom or dad feel extra special with these fantastic gift ideas for pickleball players? Here’s a sneak peek at some pickleball gifts to consider for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or any other special event: