Lifestyle
Pickleball: The fun, social sport everyone’s talking about
Pickleball’s charm? It’s playful, welcoming and makes exercise feel like fun again.
By Karen Bleakley
Pickleball is more than just a sport – it’s a growing community movement sweeping across Australia (and lots of other countries). Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, it’s easy to learn, social and suitable for all ages and abilities.
My teenage kids introduced me to the game after trying it at school, and it wasn’t long before I noticed pickleball popping up everywhere, from community centres to local parks. But what is it about this quirky sport that has so many people hooked?
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is played on a small court with a net, a hollow plastic ball with holes in it, and solid paddles. The court is about one-third of the size of a doubles tennis court, which means there’s less running but still enough movement to get your heart rate pumping. It’s easier on the joints than tennis, making it ideal for beginners, older adults or anyone easing into regular activity.
Although the rules are simple to pick up, the game involves strategic thinking, making it about much more than physical fitness. This gives everyone the opportunity to shine, whatever their fitness level.
A brief history of pickleball
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell on Bainbridge Island in Washington, USA. Using leftover sports equipment, they created a game to entertain their families. The name ‘pickleball’ is said to come from the term ‘pickle boat’ – a rowing boat made up of leftover crew, a nod to the sport’s mixed origins.
Since then, popularity has snowballed and pickleball has grown into one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
The rise of pickleball in Australia
Although the sport only began gaining momentum in Australia around 2015, it has expanded quickly. According to Pickleball Australia’s 2023–24 annual report, there were 92,641 players nationwide, with a near-even gender split (around 54% female and 46% male). The average player’s age is 56, reflecting the sport’s wide appeal across age ranges.
Local councils, retirement communities and sports centres love pickleball because it’s accessible, affordable and great for bringing people together. It’s not unusual to see grandparents and teens playing side by side. It’s amazing how pickleball brings different generations together, creating connections you don’t often see in other sports.
It can be a great activity to bring the family together.
“Pickleball is quickly becoming one of the most popular sports in Brisbane,” said Ash Playford, Business Manager of Matchpoint Tennis Australia.
“It’s fast, fun and perfect for all ages. Whether you're competitive or playing for fun, there's a place for everyone on the court. There’s also a great social aspect, with the opportunity to connect with fellow players in the community.”
Health and well-being benefits
Pickleball delivers a range of health benefits, both physical and mental.
It provides a solid cardiovascular workout, improves balance and coordination and can help build strength and flexibility. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental wellbeing and help maintain healthy bones and muscles as we age.
Just as important as the physical benefits, another huge selling point of the sport is that it’s enjoyable. Many people stick with it not because they’re chasing intense fitness goals, but because they’re having fun, and that’s the key to consistency.
The Medical University of South Carolina puts it simply: “The hardest thing about exercise is doing it regularly… One of the reasons often given is it isn’t fun… This is where pickleball comes in.”
The mental health perks of the sport are just as important. Playing pickleball gives you a chance to de-stress, build resilience and connect with your community. The laughs, rallies and good vibes continue long after you leave the court.
More than just a sport
Pickleball isn’t just about getting fit; it’s about connection.
Most social sessions involve rotating partners and opponents, creating a welcoming environment where it’s easy to meet new people. Many groups grab a coffee after the game, adding a valuable social element. This makes it a great activity for those new to an area or seeking to expand their circle of friends.
Mandy Ski is preparing to relocate permanently to Australia from the UK to join her daughter and wanted to start building a friendship network during her holidays before making the big move.
“I went to a ‘Come and Try Pickleball’ session at the local PCYC. It cost $12, and everything was provided – paddles, balls and guidance,” Mandy said.
“With my tennis background, I found it relatively easy to get started. I was given a grade, signed up through the OpenSports app, and started playing across the Northern Beaches after paying the joining fee.” Over the next six weeks, Mandy played several times a week, and the experience made a lasting impression.
“I’ve kept in touch with the friends I made through pickleball after returning to the UK. Seeing some of them move up a grade made me want to keep progressing so I could play with them again when I’m back. I’ve since joined a London-based pickleball group, played in two local tournaments and have more lined up!”
Mandy’s enthusiasm has paid off.
“The six weeks in Australia gave me a great foundation. My DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is now 3.4 with 39% reliability, and I’ve already earned a silver and a gold medal. When I return to Australia later this year, I’m hoping to rejoin the same group of players.”
For Mandy, the sport has eased her relocation worries.
“I was nervous about leaving my lifelong friends in the UK, but pickleball has shown me it’s possible to build strong new connections quickly. It’s made me feel like I’ll be able to settle into the Australian lifestyle more easily when I move over permanently.”
How to get started
Pickleball is simple to learn, and most clubs provide paddles and balls for beginners. Many community centres, councils and PCYCs run free or low-cost sessions, so you can try it without commitment.
There’s no pressure to compete; you can play casually or just for fun, and the format is welcoming to people of all fitness levels, whether you're sporty or new to exercise.
To find a local club, visit the Pickleball Australia website.
Why now’s the time to give it a go
Fun, social and addictive, pickleball delivers health benefits without feeling like exercise.
Whether you’re after fitness, friendship or a fresh challenge, pickleball could be your next favourite hobby. Grab a paddle, get on the court and see where it takes you!
Feature image: iStock/andreswd
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