Pickleball – the name that has been creating a buzz in the Vietnamese sports community recently. If you don't know what Pickleball is and its rules, read the article below to discover this exciting sport!

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and can be played indoors or outdoors. It is played on a court smaller than a tennis court, but with shorter paddles and a plastic ball with holes.

The gameplay and rules of pickleball are quite simple, easy to learn, and suitable for all ages. Players can play singles (2 people) or doubles (4 people). In this game, each side has one serve and must hit the ball over the 0.86m high net to the opponent's side. Both sides must keep the ball within a special area called the "non-volley zone" and score points if the opponent commits a fault or cannot return the ball.

Pickleball has become a popular sport in over 50 countries, especially the US, due to its high entertainment value and ease of play.

Pickleball is a sport combining tennis, table tennis, and badminton

Origin of Pickleball

Pickleball was invented in 1965 in the USA by three founders: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Gary L. L., who combined tennis, badminton, and ping-pong to create a new game for their children.

From a family recreational sport, Pickleball began to develop rapidly and became an official sport in the US and many other countries with the establishment of USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) in 1984 – which played a role in setting rules, organizing tournaments, and promoting the sport.

Pickleball was introduced in Vietnam in the late 2010s through international sports enthusiasts or those who had experienced the sport abroad. However, interest in Pickleball has only significantly increased in recent years.

Pickleball Becomes a Sensation in Vietnam in Recent Years

Pickleball has become a sensation in Vietnam in recent years

Why is Pickleball Popular in Vietnam?

According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP), in 2023, as many as 48.3 million people in the US played pickleball, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in the past year.

In Vietnam, pickleball is also becoming a new trend with a rapid increase in the number of participants, especially young people in major cities. The reasons for pickleball's popularity can be attributed to:

Easy to access and learn to play

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, with easy-to-understand rules that don't require overly complex skills. This allows beginners to quickly join and enjoy the sport.

Suitable for all ages

Pickleball requires less physical exertion, making it attractive not only to young people but also suitable for middle-aged and elderly individuals. In particular, the cost of playing pickleball is low, and matches are usually short, making it convenient for busy people looking for a light yet effective physical activity.

Pickleball is easy to play and suitable for all ages

Health benefits

Like all other sports, playing pickleball is not just for entertainment but also offers numerous health benefits, such as improving flexibility, enhancing muscle coordination, and reducing stress. This makes pickleball an ideal choice for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Friendly playing environment

Pickleball is often played on smaller courts with a close and interactive playing space. This encourages social interaction, making friends, and strengthening community bonds.

Development of infrastructure and reputable competitions

The increase in pickleball courts and tournaments in Vietnam has created opportunities for sports enthusiasts in general and pickleball players in particular to shine.

Many clubs and sports centers have incorporated pickleball into their structured training programs, allowing people to access and play more regularly.

Influence from international trends

Pickleball has become a global phenomenon, especially in the US and Western countries. Global integration and connectivity have helped pickleball gradually gain acceptance in Vietnam.

Essential Equipment for Playing Pickleball

Basic equipment for playing Pickleball

To play pickleball, you will need some basic equipment:

Pickleball Paddle: usually made from materials like plastic, composite, or wood, with a compact and lightweight design. The paddle has a flat surface and no strings like a tennis racket, allowing players to easily control and direct the ball.
Pickleball Ball: similar in shape to a tennis ball but smaller and lighter. Pickleball balls are made of plastic, with small holes on the surface to provide stability when moving through the air.
There are 2 types of balls: outdoor balls (heavier, fewer holes) and indoor balls (lighter but with more holes).
Playing Court: smaller than a tennis court, approximately 20x44 feet (6.1x13.4m) with clear boundary lines, including the service area and the non-volley zone (also known as the "kitchen"). The court can be set up outdoors or indoors, depending on local conditions.
Pickleball Net: 22 feet long (approx. 6.7m) and 36 inches (approx. 91cm) high at the posts, and 34 inches (approx. 86cm) high in the center. This height difference creates a lower center, making the game more interesting and challenging. The net is stretched across the court, dividing it into two halves.
Pickleball Apparel: typically comfortable, sweat-wicking, and breathable sportswear, such as t-shirts, shorts, or leggings, allowing players to move easily and stay dry throughout the game.
Pickleball Shoes: should have good grip and support for agile movement, helping players move easily and safely on the court.
Protective Eyewear (Optional): Although not mandatory, some players choose to wear protective eyewear to prevent accidental injuries from the ball or paddle during play.

Notes for Playing Pickleball

Here are some tips for playing pickleball safely and effectively:

Choose quality pickleball court mats: ensure your playing court is equipped with specialized pickleball mats that meet USA Pickleball standards. Good court mats help minimize the risk of injury and provide stable grip, allowing players to move easily and safely.

Choose a quality Pickleball court for the best experience

Warm up thoroughly before playing: although pickleball doesn't require extreme physical fitness, warming up your body with light stretching exercises will enhance flexibility and agility during play.
Choose appropriate clothing and shoes: To ensure comfort and prevent slipping, wear breathable sportswear that allows for easy movement.
Improve skills through practice: Although it's an easy sport to learn, playing well requires regular practice. Practice will help you improve your skills and master strategies.
Play with fun and sportsmanship: Pickleball is a fun and relaxing sport, so maintain a sporting spirit, socialize, and enjoy every minute on the court.

Conclusion

The information above answers the question "What is Pickleball?". With simple and easy-to-learn rules, pickleball is suitable for all ages and skill levels. This sport not only improves health but is also a great way to connect with friends and family. If you are looking for a new and exciting activity, Pickleball is definitely a great choice to experience.