Is Pickleball A Game For Every Age Group?

Pickleball is a fun and social game that’s easy to learn. While pickleball has grown in popularity around the world, it’s often considered a senior sport.

But is pickleball a game for every age group?

You can start playing pickleball at any age. In fact, there are even Junior pickleball clubs where children and teenagers enjoy the game.

We find out what age group mostly plays pickleball and why the game is for everyone.

Is Pickleball For Every Age Group?

Pickleball is a game for all age groups, from junior players under 19 to senior players above 70.

As a cross between table tennis, badminton and tennis, pickleball is a fast-paced game that is easy to learn and fun to play at any age.

It’s also worth noting that the official pickleball rules do not set a minimum or maximum age for anyone who wants to play.

As long as players are fit and able to enjoy a pickleball game, they can join their local club or play with friends.

What Age Group Mostly Plays Pickleball?

Pickleball has a reputation for being a game that’s only played by senior players over age 65.

However, the game is growing very fast and there is an influx of younger players. The biggest age group that enjoys pickleball is 55.

However, USA Pickleball has three major age groupings for pickleball tournaments: Juniors (age 18 and under), Adults (age 19 and over) and Seniors (50+).

This means that anyone can play pickleball and attend a tournament.

Is Pickleball A Senior Game?

Pickleball is often considered a senior game because it is still most popular with players aged 55 and above.

This being said, pickleball can be played at any age, from juniors to seniors.

What Is The Best Age To Start Pickleball?

Children can pick up pickleball at any age as long as they have the ability to safely navigate a pickleball court and grip the paddle.

Even if a young child cannot volley the ball over the net at first, it is a good idea to get started with the basic rules and playing techniques.

The earliest age children can start is three years. While there are no official restrictions, children between 3 and 5 years have enough strength to walk around the pickleball court and hold a paddle.

In order to make it easier for children to learn pickleball, it’s best to get them a junior paddle. 

They are slightly lighter than the standard pickleball paddle which makes it easier for kids to hit the ball.

Children between 6 and 12 can enjoy a pickleball game to have fun and socialize with their teammates.

From the age of 12, pickleball can become more competitive as older children can grasp the rules faster and they will be able to put all their energy into the game.

Why Is Pickleball Good For Every Age?

There are a number of reasons why pickleball is a fantastic game for people of all ages, including a variety of health benefits and social interactions.

Pickleball Has Many Health Benefits

One of the biggest advantages of playing pickleball is that it allows you to stay active. It’s a great workout for the body, mind and soul.

Pickleball can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and tension. Moving your body with an increased heart rate also helps you to relax and sleep better after the game.

Pickleball Is A Social Sport

As a team sport, pickleball is surprisingly social. You need a number of players and teammates who regularly play together often also become friends.

Pickleball has a mixed demographic as it is still growing in popularity. 

This means that it’s ideal for elderly adults making new friends and young kids who need to burn off some energy.

Plus, you can also enjoy a match of pickleball with the entire family.

Pickleball Is Affordable

Many sports require a lot of equipment or additional gear. This can quickly become an expensive hobby.

However, pickleball is unusual because you can access many municipal pickleball courts for free.

This means you only need a pickleball paddle and a ball which are relatively inexpensive.

Even if you need to pay for accessing a pickleball court, you can divide the courts by the number of players on the court which turns out to be low cost.

Pickleball Is Easy To Play

Another reason why pickleball is a game for every age group is that it’s so easy to learn and play.

The rules are simple and you can pick up a full game within a few hours. This makes pickleball perfect for kids and older adults who want to improve their coordination skills.

Pickleball Has A Quick Play Time

The average playing time of a pickleball match is just 15 minutes. This isn’t a lot of time compared to tennis or other racquet sports.

This being said, players can choose to play several rounds, extending the game for however long they want.

However, if you just want to play a quick game, then pickleball gives you the option to jump on the court whenever you like.

This short playtime also makes it easier to fit the game into your daily routine.

A Pickleball Court Is Smaller Than A Tennis Court

A pickleball court is the same size as a doubles badminton court and it’s only a third of a tennis court.

This smaller size makes it easier for people of any age to get to the ball and move around the court.

Plus, you can even set up your own pickleball court at home. As long as you have 64ft by 34ft available in your backyard, you just put up a temporary net and line markings.

Final Thoughts

Pickleball has plenty of health benefits. It’s a fun game that’s easy to learn for every age group.

As long as you have the physical strength to grip a paddle and maneuver the court, then pickleball is right for you.