When you think of summer at the beach, activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball probably come to mind. But there’s a new game taking over the coastline, and it’s called pickleball. Whether you’re spending time by the tropical beach or enjoying a relaxed day with friends, pickleball offers the perfect blend of fun and exercise.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what pickleball is, how to play, the equipment you need, and why it’s the ideal activity to enjoy near the beach this summer. Let’s dive into the world of pickleball and see why it’s quickly becoming a must-try sport for people of all ages.

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s played on a small court with a paddle and a lightweight ball with holes. The game can be played as singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two players per team), and it’s a great way to get some exercise while having fun with friends or family.

Although pickleball has been around since the 1960s, it’s only in recent years that it has truly exploded in popularity, especially near beaches and vacation spots. The game is easy to learn, but it also offers enough strategy and movement to keep even seasoned players engaged.

How Did Pickleball Start?

Pickleball has a quirky origin story. It was invented in 1965 by three dads—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—on Bainbridge Island, Washington. They were looking for a way to keep their families entertained during the summer. Using a badminton court, they improvised a game with ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. The sport grew from this humble backyard invention into a global phenomenon.

Some say the name “pickleball” came from the family dog, Pickles, who would chase the ball and run off with it during games. Others suggest it’s named after the term “pickle boat,” which refers to the last boat to finish in a race. Either way, the name stuck, and the game evolved into the fun activity we know today.

How to Play Pickleball

Playing pickleball is straightforward, and once you get the hang of the basic rules, you’ll be hooked. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to play:

The Court

Pickleball is played on a court that’s smaller than a tennis court, measuring 20 feet by 44 feet. The court is divided into two halves by a net, which stands 36 inches high at the sides and 34 inches in the middle. There are also two sections near the net called the “kitchen” or “non-volley zone,” which is a 7-foot area from the net where you cannot volley the ball (hit it in the air before it bounces).

The Equipment

To play pickleball, you need three basic pieces of equipment:

1. Pickleball Paddle – These paddles are bigger than ping pong paddles but smaller than tennis rackets. They’re lightweight and made from materials like wood, composite, or graphite.
2. Pickleball Ball – The ball used in pickleball is a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball. It’s lightweight, with holes that make it easier to control and keep the pace moderate.
3. The Net – A net separates the two sides of the court, similar to tennis and badminton.

If you’re playing pickleball near the beach, many vacation spots offer portable pickleball courts, which are easy to set up on sand or grass. This makes it perfect for a beach day with friends!

Basic Rules of Pickleball

1. The Serve – The game starts with a serve. The player serves the ball underhand, and the ball must bounce once on the opposite side of the court before it can be returned. The serve is made diagonally, similar to tennis.
2. The Double Bounce Rule – After the serve, each side must allow the ball to bounce once before hitting it. After the ball has bounced on both sides, players can volley the ball (hit it without letting it bounce) or continue playing after it bounces.
3. The Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen) – Players are not allowed to stand inside the non-volley zone (the kitchen) and hit the ball out of the air. This rule prevents players from dominating the net and adds an element of strategy to the game.
4. Scoring – Games are usually played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points. Points can only be scored by the serving team, and the serve switches sides when the serving team commits a fault.

That’s it! The rules are simple enough that anyone can start playing after just a few minutes of explanation, but there’s also room for skill development as you play more.

Why Pickleball is Perfect for the Beach

Pickleball isn’t just for indoor gyms or suburban backyards. It’s an ideal beach sport because it’s easy to set up, doesn’t require a lot of space, and can be played on sand, which adds an extra challenge and makes the game more fun.

Here’s why pickleball is such a great beach activity:

1. All Ages Can Play – Pickleball is a sport for everyone. It’s popular among retirees for its low-impact, gentle pace, but it’s also a favorite among younger players who enjoy its fast pace and strategic elements. Whether you’re with family, friends, or even strangers you meet on vacation, pickleball is a fun way to bond while soaking up the sun.
2. Perfect for Sand Play – When played on sand, pickleball takes on a new dimension. The softer surface makes it harder to move, so you’ll get a better workout, and it’s easier on your joints. Plus, playing near the ocean adds to the overall beach vibe—just imagine running after the ball with the sound of the waves in the background.
3. Beach-Friendly Exercise – You don’t need a lot of fancy gear to play pickleball, making it perfect for the beach. Just bring a portable net, a couple of paddles, and a pickleball, and you’re good to go. It’s a fantastic way to stay active while you’re on vacation or just spending the day by the sea.

Physical Health Benefits of Pickleball

Pickleball is not just a fun beach activity; it’s also a fantastic way to stay in shape. Here are some of the physical health benefits you’ll enjoy by playing pickleball regularly:

1. Cardiovascular Health

Pickleball is a great way to get your heart pumping. The quick movements and bursts of activity required to keep the ball in play help improve cardiovascular endurance. Whether you’re running to reach a shot or moving side to side to defend your space, you’ll be engaging in aerobic exercise that strengthens your heart.

Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve circulation. So, a few games of pickleball by the beach can do wonders for your heart health.

2. Improved Agility and Coordination

The fast-paced nature of pickleball helps improve agility and coordination. You’ll need to react quickly to the ball, move your feet efficiently, and make precise shots with your paddle. These quick reflexes and movements can help improve balance, hand-eye coordination, and overall body control.

For older adults, this kind of activity is especially important for maintaining coordination and preventing falls, which is why pickleball is so popular among retirees.

3. Low-Impact Exercise

Unlike some other sports, pickleball is relatively low-impact. The smaller court size means you don’t have to cover as much ground as you would in tennis, and the lightweight paddle and ball make it easier on your arms and joints. This makes it an ideal sport for people of all fitness levels, including those who are looking for a gentler way to stay active.

When you play pickleball on sand, it’s even lower impact because the soft surface absorbs much of the force, making it easier on your joints.

4. Burns Calories

Pickleball may not feel as intense as running or swimming, but don’t let that fool you—you can burn plenty of calories while playing. A typical game of pickleball can burn anywhere from 300 to 500 calories per hour, depending on the intensity of play. Plus, since it’s so fun, you’re likely to play for longer without even realizing how much exercise you’re getting.

5. Strengthens Muscles

While pickleball is primarily an aerobic activity, it also helps strengthen key muscle groups. The quick movements, lunges, and side-to-side shuffling engage your leg muscles, while swinging the paddle helps tone your arms, shoulders, and core. It’s a full-body workout that will leave you feeling stronger after every game.

Mental Health Benefits of Pickleball

Exercise has long been known to improve mental health, and pickleball is no exception. Here’s how playing this fun beach game can boost your mood and mental well-being:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Just like spending time on the beach is known to reduce stress, playing a fun game of pickleball can further boost those relaxing vibes. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and reduce anxiety. Plus, when you’re focused on the game, it’s easier to forget about the stresses of daily life.

2. Encourages Social Interaction

Pickleball is a social game, often played in doubles. This encourages teamwork, communication, and socializing.