Pickleball

 

Pickleball

As the weather starts to get nicer, pickleball is a great hobby to pick up for the summer! It's a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Pickleball is also a relatively low-impact sport, which makes it a great option for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner, pickleball is a fun and challenging sport that can help you improve your coordination, agility, and endurance. With the growing popularity of pickleball, it's easy to find local groups and clubs to play with, making it a great way to meet new people and socialize. Pickleball is a fantastic hobby to pick up this season, offering a range of benefits for both physical and mental well-being. 

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Pickleball Defined

Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played on a smaller court than tennis, with a lower net and using paddles and a plastic ball with holes. The game can be played with singles or doubles, and the objective is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opposing team's court without letting them return it. Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three friends - Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum - who were looking for a way to keep their families entertained during a weekend barbecue. They improvised the game using equipment they had on hand, including a badminton net, ping pong paddles, and a whiffle ball. The game was initially called "Paddleball," but the name was later changed to "Pickleball" after the Pritchard family's dog, Pickles, who enjoyed chasing after the ball. The game grew in popularity over the years, especially among retirees looking for a fun and low-impact activity. Today, pickleball is played all over the world, with tournaments and competitions at all levels of play.

 

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How to Play Pickleball

 Pickleball is a game that can be played with singles or doubles, and the objective is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opposing team's court without letting them return it. To begin, the serving team must start behind the baseline and serve the ball diagonally across the court to the receiving team. The ball must bounce once on the receiving team's court before they can return it, and then the serving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it. The ball must stay within the lines of the court, and each team gets only one chance to return the ball before it becomes the other team's turn to serve. The game is played until one team reaches 11 points, with a two-point lead, or until a predetermined time limit is reached. To win a point, the ball must land on the opposing team's court without them returning it or if they hit the ball out of bounds. As you continue to play pickleball, you'll develop your own strategies and techniques, but these basic rules will help you get started on the court.

How Pickleball is Different from Tennis

If you're a tennis player looking to try out pickleball, it's important to understand the key differences between the two sports. Pickleball and tennis are both fantastic racquet sports, but they have some notable differences. Firstly, pickleball is played on a smaller court, which makes it more accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This also means that the rallies are shorter and less physically demanding than tennis, making it a great option for those who want a fun workout without pushing themselves too hard. Additionally, pickleball uses a smaller and lighter ball, which makes it easier to control and hit accurately.

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What to Wear to Pickleball

When it comes to choosing what to wear to play pickleball, comfort and functionality should be your top priorities. The game requires a lot of movement, so you want to wear clothing that is lightweight and breathable, and that allows for ease of movement. Athletic wear made from moisture-wicking materials can help keep you cool and dry during play, while clothing with a bit of stretch can help you move more easily on the court. A good pair of athletic shoes with a non-marking sole is also essential for proper traction on the court. Additionally, many pickleball players prefer to wear clothing with built-in sun protection, as the game is often played outdoors and can expose players to harmful UV rays. Lastly, don't forget to bring a hat or sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun, and a sweat towel to keep yourself dry during play. By choosing the right clothing and accessories, you can stay comfortable and focused on the game, and enjoy playing pickleball to the fullest.

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Pickleball is a highly active sport that requires the right athletic wear to maximize your performance on the court. The Court Skort, for instance, is a versatile piece that combines the style of a skirt with the coverage of shorts, making it ideal for the quick movements and agility required in pickleball. Match with the Eclipse Bra to offer comfortable support with its racerback design and moisture-wicking fabric, keeping you cool and dry even during intense rallies. The Set Dress and Serena Dress both offer a chic and functional option for those who prefer a more traditional tennis-style dress. Finally, the Barre Seamless Tee is a great option for those looking for a breathable and lightweight top that offers freedom of movement and comfort during play. Match with our Set Skort to complete the look.

 

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Conclusion

Pickleball is a fun and accessible sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking for a low-impact activity to stay active, or a competitive sport to play with friends, pickleball is a great choice. So, put on your favorite Alala outfit and grab a group of friends this summer for a pickleball match!

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