Why Is Pickleball So Addictive?

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?!

Addiction involves desiring something desperately, losing control over how you use this something, and continuing to do this something even if it comes along with negative consequences–all to get that juicy dopamine fix in the pleasure center of your brain. 

Is positive addiction a real thing? Maybe.

During my first year of playing pickleball, I have even had fellow players boast about the autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) they get from hearing the ball strike the paddle.

So if you find yourself addicted to pickleball, there are likely genetic, environmental, and developmental factors contributing to your dinking obsession. But that’s between you and your mental health professional.

Why Pickleball Is Addicting

Pickleball is fun. The combination of skillsets needed to succeed makes it a delightful game. You need quick reflexes, strategic foresight, and some groundstrokes to do well at pickleball. This variety keeps the game exciting and players engaged.

Pickleball is a great way to get active and stay fit. Unlike many other sports, pickleball does not require much physical contact and is considered low-impact for those looking for a less strenuous workout. But that doesn’t mean the game isn’t intense! On the contrary, it will challenge your aerobic capacity and help you burn calories.

Pickleball is a fantastic way to socialize. The game can be played in singles or doubles, and it’s even better when played with friends. You get time to talk on the court and share stories from past games and strategies for future ones. Plus, most areas have pickleball leagues or clubs that allow you to meet and make new friends.

Humans are attracted to joy. And pickleball offers that in spades. There has yet to be an open play, league or pickleball tournament that I have attended where people weren’t grinning ear to ear. People might hate on the sport, but for those who have played it, you know it’s a positivity magnet.

Pickleball increases your energy level. The ever-changing and rapid-fire nature of the game is sure to get your heart pumping and blood flowing. Plus, it’s a great way to blow off steam after a long day or week. Pickleball players lose weight, increase muscle tone…and I find it helps me sleep deeper.

Pickleball fills your calendar. All human beings have different social needs. At this point in my life, I enjoy the loose social nature the sport delivers without having to put in the effort of deep relationships. Socializing + Exercising = Two Birds, One Stone! As someone who thrives on planning and routine, pickleball addiction gives my calendar several anchors to plan around.

Pickleball fashion creeps into your closet. Since a true addict never gets enough, you will find people addicted to pickleball making some “sporty” fashion choices. From wearing lensless pickleball goggles at Dunkin’ to lifting socks up to their knees, pickleball fashion allows addicts to wear their pride for the world to see.

Pickleball changes your life. Imagine yourself waking up with an overwhelming sense of positivity and contentment. Your outlook on life is brighter than ever as your confidence soars to new heights. Pickleball can have this impact; I know firsthand!

So why is pickleball addicting? Because it’s a fun and sociable way to stay active while providing an incredibly rewarding experience. Don’t worry about why you are addicted to pickleball; Instead, embrace the beast, stop reading, and go play!

Why are YOU addicted to pickleball? Tell us in the comments section.