Why Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the US
The Numbers Behind the Pickleball Boom
Over the last five years, pickleball has seen an approximate 20% annual growth rate in participants, making it the fastest growing sport in the USA. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball players climbed from 2.8 million in 2018 to over 4.8 million by the end of 2022, with trends showing no sign of slowing.
This surge parallels growing interest in our closely related sport, padel, which is also experiencing rapid expansion in the USA. While padel growth USA remains strong, pickleball’s lower barrier to entry and social appeal often give it the edge in attracting newcomers.
Why Play Pickleball? Practical Reasons That Matter
Easy to Learn, Hard to Master
Pickleball’s simplicity makes it instantly accessible:
- Smaller court size than tennis, requiring less running
- Lightweight paddle and slower ball speed aid longer rallies
- Simple scoring system supports quick matches
Inclusive Across Ages and Abilities
Pickleball is suited to a broad demographic spectrum:
- Low-impact on joints—favoured by older adults and rehabilitation patients
- Great for kids through to seniors, promoting family and community sport
- Mixed-gender play is common, increasing social interaction
Fast Set-Up and Play
Unlike sports requiring specialist facilities:
- Many tennis courts can be repurposed with minimal changes
- Portable nets and equipment enable play anywhere
- Shorter game duration appeals to busy lifestyles
Booming Social Scene
Community courts and clubs are multiplying, propelling the sport’s social element forward.
Pickleball vs Padel Growth in USA: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pickleball | Padel (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Court size | 20x44 feet (smaller) | 10x20 metres (enclosed) |
| Equipment | Paddle & plastic ball | Paddle & pressurised tennis ball |
| Accessibility | Generally easier for beginners | Requires some tennis skills |
| Popularity growth | ~20% annual increase | Rapid growth, but from smaller base |
| Facility availability | Increasing rapidly | Growing steadily |
Common Mistakes When Starting Pickleball
- Overhitting the ball: Beginners tend to swing too hard; control and placement are more critical.
- Poor positioning: Staying too far back limits court coverage.
- Neglecting the non-volley zone (kitchen): Often misunderstood, it’s essential to master the rules here.
- Ignoring warm-ups: Despite low impact, proper warm-up prevents injury and improves play.
Pro Tips for New and Improving Players
- Focus on consistency over power: Place the ball where your opponent struggles.
- Work on dinking skills: Mastering soft shots at the net keeps your opponent off balance.
- Improve court positioning: Move in as points develop—anticipation beats reaction.
- Join beginner clinics: Social coaching environments offer real progress without pressure.
- Play regularly: Frequent play accelerates skill development and fitness gains.
FAQs
Q1: How does pickleball compare to tennis in terms of fitness benefits?
Pickleball offers moderate cardiovascular exercise with reduced impact, making it accessible for all fitness levels unlike the often more intense tennis.
Q2: Can beginners without sporting background pick up pickleball easily?
Yes, pickleball’s simple rules and manageable equipment make it ideal for complete beginners.
Q3: Is it expensive to start playing pickleball?
Not at all. Starter kits (paddle, balls, net) are affordable, and many community courts are free or low cost.
Pickleball’s sustained growth reflects its broad appeal—easy to learn, social, and adaptable. As padel growth USA continues, players familiar with racket sports find both alternatives rewarding. For UK beginners or those keen to improve, exploring pickleball offers fresh, enjoyable ways to stay active year-round.
Ready to see what the excitement is all about? Learn the basics of pickleball to get started, master your technique with Pickleball Serves 101, or compare it with Padel vs Pickleball to find your perfect match. Find your adVANTAge.