Most popular sports have been around for centuries if not millennia. Competitive running and sprints date back to the first recorded Olympics in 776 BCE in Ancient Greece. Tennis originated in France in the 12th century. Swimming for sport is known to have started in the early eighteen hundreds.
It is rare for a new sport to come on the scene and garner as much attention and players as pickleball. Pickleball was developed in the sixties, making it one of the youngest recreational and competitive sports.
It is not a surprise that pickleball clubs and outdoor courts are springing up all over the world. Pickleball is a sport that ticks all the boxes. People of all ages can play. It is easy to learn (or at least easier than most sports), and you can play casually or in comps and tournaments.
The Paseo Club of Santa Clarita has 11 pickleball courts and a comprehensive program for players of all levels.
In this article, you will learn why people are flocking to learn pickleball, if prior experience in racquet sports is an asset, about gear tips, and how to learn pickleball at the Paseo Club.
Why do so many people want to learn pickleball?
Pickleball's popularity is rising due to its accessibility and ease of learning, making it appealing to people of all ages and skill levels.
The game combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, offering a fun, social, and less physically demanding alternative to most sports.
Its compact court size and adaptable pace make it ideal for casual play, while its competitive aspects attract those looking for a new challenge. Additionally, the community around pickleball is welcoming, adding to its allure.
If you have played racquet sports before, is it easier to pick up pickleball?
Yes!
You will find it easier to pick up pickleball if you have experience with other racquet sports like tennis, badminton, or ping-pong.
The skills from these sports—such as hand-eye coordination, court positioning, and understanding ball trajectory—transfer well to pickleball. While the rules and court size differ, your familiarity with racquet sports will give you a head start in mastering the game.
What equipment do new pickleball players need?
Pickleball is not a super technical sport, so your overhead is fairly low. But a few well-designed pieces of equipment can definitely be an asset.
Attire
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking athletic clothing that allows for easy movement.
Shoes
Choose court shoes with good grip and lateral support since pickleball involves quick side-to-side movements. You can now purchase pickleball shoes. Tennis shoes are also a great option. Pickleball Director Tyler Shaffer loves his Asics!
Paddle and Balls
Start with a mid-range paddle that offers a balance of control and power. Use outdoor pickleballs — Dura Fast 40, Franklin X, and Vulcan Pro are great choices.
What are the 4 steps to learn pickleball?
Learning a new sport can be intimidating as an adult. You may feel uncoordinated or awkward at first. That is ok! Learning something new is not only good for your body, it is great for your cognitive health too.
Pickleball is a forgiving sport, and the welcoming community is always encouraging and supportive.
The Paseo Club developed multiple routes to get involved with the SCV pickleball community. Beginners can follow these four steps below.
1. Take a starter class
Starter classes are designed to familiarize you with the basic rules of pickleball. You will practice fundamental skills like serving, volleying, and positioning on the court. Then, the avenues to playing open up. Starter class is available in the mornings, evenings, and weekends.
If you are a new Paseo Club member or are an old member new to pickleball, you can receive three free starter classes when you contact Pickleball Director Tyler Shaffer.
2. Drop-in or reserve a court to play games
You can join open play and improve your technique and strategy through real-game experience. Often you can meet players from your starter class who are also looking for more experience. Drop-in times are:
- Monday - Friday: 8 am - 11 am
- Tuesday & Friday: 6 pm - 9 pm
- Weekends: 9 am - 12 pm
Reservations are made online up to three days in advance.
3. Join a pickleball league
Join a pickleball league to get consistent, challenging fun. Leagues are built for every level, from starter graduates to advanced. There are leagues for women, men, and mixed doubles.
4. Attend other pickleball events at the club
Pickleball Director Tyler Shaffer is always cooking up fun pickleball activities. Whether it is black light pickleball, Christmas-themed pickleball, or teaming up with Dink for Cause for a community fundraiser, there is always a great pickleball event at the Paseo Club. You can stay current on events by checking out the Paseo Club’s seasonal calendar.
Joining the pickleball community at the Paseo Club
If you want to get active, have fun, and learn something new, there is no better choice than pickleball. Pickleball is also a great sport to pick up to meet others and expand your social network. And if you really love it, you can start to play competitively like Paseo Hero Anders Jansson.
The Paseo Club is your home away from home. We welcome members of all ages to our club. Kids can play at Kids Club or join some of our junior programming. Parents can play pickleball or tennis (or both!), hit the gym, and then grab a drink at the bar or a bite at the cafe.
The options are endless at the Paseo Club. Join the club today and jump into your best, healthy life. Signing up takes just a few minutes, and then you will instantly be granted access to all the classes, courts, and social events available.
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