Two racquet sports have enamoured millions around the world. Padel and pickleball are the fastest-growing sports in recent times. So, what’s the hype all about?
Padel and pickleball have taken the world by a storm and are decidedly two of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Over the past few years, these racquet sports have seen a surge in popularity, particularly here in the UK.
With summer in full swing across Britain, more and more people are making plans to play padel and pickleball with mates, family, colleagues, et al. So why have these sports gained such tremendous popularity in recent times? Let’s delve into the hype and find out what it’s all about.
Padel was born in 1969, and its origins are largely credited to Enrique Corcuera and his wife Viviana Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico. The husband-wife duo loved tennis, however, they were unable to build a tennis court in their new house due to architectural constraints and thus created a smaller enclosed playing area, giving birth to a new racquet sport.
Pickleball, meanwhile, is believed to have been invented by an athletic family in the USA during the 1960s. The name supposedly comes from the family dog, Pickles, who had a habit of trying to steal the ball.
READ MORE: Best padel rackets from £25 to shop for beginner and advanced players
How to play padel
A fusion of tennis and squash, padel is played on a unique court that’s a bit smaller than a standard tennis court and surrounded by walls, much like a squash court. These walls are part of the game, allowing players to bounce the ball off them during rallies to outwit their opponents and score points.
The scoring in padel mirrors that of tennis, but the gameplay has its unique twists. Instead of stringed racquets, players wield solid, perforated bats.
The serve is underarm and typically, it’s a doubles game, making it a sociable and tactical sport. Padel’s charm lies in its accessibility for novices. Its emphasis on teamwork, smart shot placement, and wall play means it’s a hit with all ages and abilities, offering lengthy, high-octane rallies that keep the game lively and captivating.
How to play pickleball
Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles on a court the size of a badminton pitch, with a lower tennis net. Players use solid paddles to bat an airflow ball over the net for as long as they can.
The court is split into two service boxes and a non-volley zone near the net known as ‘the kitchen’. To kick off a point, the ball is served underarm into the opposing service box, bypassing the kitchen. The ball must bounce once on each side of the court before the player or doubles team can start volleying.
The kitchen is a no-volley area, so if you’re inside the kitchen when you take a shot, the ball must bounce first, otherwise, the other player/team scores a point. You can even play pickleball in a curling rink during the summer months.
Why is padel and pickleball so popular?
One of the key factors behind this trend is its accessibility. The underarm serves in these sports make them far less daunting than their counterparts, allowing many to get the hang of it swiftly.
Moreover, they’re incredibly sociable games as they’re typically played in doubles, making them perfect for mates, family gatherings, or team-building exercises. They’re low impact yet provide excellent cardio benefits without putting excessive strain on the body.
The trend has also been boosted by celebrity endorsements. Sporting legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray have either invested in or been seen playing padel.
Hollywood A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio and George Clooney are often spotted enjoying pickleball, while sports icons like Tom Brady, Steph Curry, and LeBron James have shown their support by investing in pickleball teams or leagues. This has undoubtedly helped bring the two racquet sports into the mainstream spotlight.
In essence, the surge in popularity of these sports can be attributed to several factors: accessibility, sociability, and cultural relevance, making them a perfect match for contemporary lifestyles.
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What to wear when playing padel
When it comes to kitting out for a game of padel, picking the right tops, bottoms, and outerwear is key to boosting performance and comfort on the court. Tops should be crafted from breathable, moisture-wicking materials, with choices spanning from sleeveless and short-sleeve to long-sleeve depending on weather conditions and personal taste.
Bottoms, be they shorts, skirts, or leggings, should provide flexibility and freedom of movement. Pockets are a handy addition for storing balls. For outerwear, lightweight jackets and hoodies are perfect for warming up or playing in chillier weather, with layering being a crucial tactic for temperature control.
It’s vital to find the right balance between fit, function, and comfort to ensure top-notch gameplay. Original, high-quality, technical padel gear can be found at Pulco.
What to wear when playing pickleball
While there’s no strict dress code in pickleball, there are some general guidelines players should follow for optimal gameplay. It’s crucial to select attire that allows for a full range of motion.
Another key aspect is to opt for clothing made from moisture-wicking material to help you stay cool and dry while playing. Avoid wearing clothing that’s too loose or too tight, as it can restrict your movement and impact your performance. Comfort, flexibility, and breathability are some of the most important aspects to consider. Choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics such as polyester or nylon is highly recommended.
Short-sleeved shirts or tank tops are a good choice for most players. Shorts or skirts made from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics are also recommended. Look for built-in base layer shorts to reduce chafing and provide extra support. Avoid baggy trousers or shorts, which can get caught on the paddle or limit your movement.
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