Have you hit the Pickleball court yet? If you love to play tennis or any other type of racket sport, Pickleball should be next on your list! The sport of Pickleball originated in the Seattle, Washington area in the 1960s (Bainbridge Island to be exact). 

It’s a strange name for a sport, right? Well, it makes a bit more sense once you learn more about Seattle’s storied history of excellence in the sport of rowing, or crew.

According to Pickleball Magazine, “Pickleball was founded in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Within days, Joan Pritchard had come up with the name “pickleball”—a reference to the thrown-together leftover non-starters in the “pickle boat” of crew races.”

So now you know!

When compared to tennis, Pickleball is considered a slower-paced sport that’s a bit easier on the joints. Even more so, the sport’s legions of fans also will tell you it’s way more fun! And if you love a good excuse to purchase cute new fitness clothing for your new Pickleball hobby (or obsession), you can’t go wrong with the skorts, leggings, shorts, and tops you’ll find at SkirtSports.com.  

Here’s why you should give Pickleball a try:

1. Pickleball is played on a much smaller court than tennis, the ball stays in play longer. You’ll enjoy a good aerobic workout without as much running and pounding on your knees, ankles and other joints.

2. The ball is soft and light, so it’s less likely to cause an injury if you get hit with one. It’s a bit like a Wiffle ball.

3. Playing Pickleball helps enhance hand-eye coordination and challenges your balance, as well.

4. Beginners can learn Pickleball and then later play at a reasonable level of expertise relatively quickly. It's fun and accessible for people of all ages, sizes and athletic abilities.

5. The social aspects of playing Pickleball are a big draw, as well. Because the sport is played with another person or in a team format, Pickleball builds a sense of connection with others. Endorphins released during and after play can help reduce anxiety and depression and even elevate self-esteem.

How to Get Started

Find a Court

Pickleball is played on a Badminton-size court, either indoors or outside. Many local park districts and racket clubs have Pickleball courts. There’s likely one in your area! Head to places2play.org to find a court near you. 

Get Geared Up

You’ll need a Pickleball paddle and some Pickleballs, of course. These are easy to find at any local sporting goods store or through this family-owned, Washington-based shop, Pickleball Central.

Suit up!

Choose comfortably loose, moisture-wicking clothing that allows you to move around easily. Skirt Sports offers a range of beautiful options for women - perfect for any style preference. Whether you’re into the flexibility of colorful exercise skorts, the coverage of leggings or shorts, and stylish fitness tops that don’t hinder movement, Skirt Sports has the high-quality fitness clothing you need to hit the court!

So grab a friend – or three – and head to the Pickleball court!