Pickleball is only getting more popular as the new, young rockstar sport on the block. Yet, tennis has roots, history, and loyal devotees who have played for decades.
For those of you pondering taking up a court sport, whether you reach for a tennis racquet or a pickleball paddle can be quite a quandary.
The Paseo Club is a social club in the Santa Clarita Valley that offers several resources for fitness, swimming, pickleball, and tennis play. Many of our members are curious about picking up court sports.
Therefore, in this article, we are going to pit pickleball versus tennis and learn who can play each sport, their benefits, the resources for playing at the Paseo Club, and which activity is best for you.
Why Pickleball is getting all the attention
What is pickleball’s origins?
In 1965, in Washington State, three dads — Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — invented pickleball. During moments of family boredom, they grabbed some ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball — and the game was born.
Inspired by Joel Pritchard's dog, Pickles, who would chase the ball, they named the game pickleball.
Since then, pickleball has gained popularity, becoming a widely played sport for enthusiasts of all ages.
Who can play pickleball?
Pickleball is an inclusive sport suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. It's easy-to-understand rules and the small court size appeals to both beginners and seasoned athletes.
The game can be adapted for seniors. The slower pace allows for easy participation and less strain on the body. With its growing popularity, the sport attracts a diverse community, fostering a welcoming environment for everyone.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t play pickleball?
While pickleball is generally a low-impact sport suitable for a wide range of individuals, three groups of people may not be a good fit for it.
- People with a serious heart problem
- Anyone with significant joint or mobility issues
- Individuals who have been instructed to avoid intense exercise
Consult with your doctor if you are not sure if you are a good candidate for playing pickleball.
What are the benefits of playing pickleball?
Playing pickleball offers many health and social benefits.
- Helps you have fun and stay active
- Enhances coordination and balance due to its focus on quick reflexes and agility
- Gives a great cardiovascular workout, improving heart health and increasing stamina
- Fosters a sense of community and camaraderie since there is such as strong social aspect of the game
- Improves mental health, including lowering levels of stress and depression while increasing a sense of happiness and overall life satisfaction.
5 ways to play pickleball at the Paseo Club
The Paseo Club has five resources available for people who want to learn and/or improve at pickleball.
- The Intro to Pickleball class offers a hands-on approach with a coach that goes over the basics, scoring rules, and how to play a game.
- Drill classes of all levels focus on serves, forehands, backhands, volleys, dinks, positioning, and strategies.
- Drop-in play is also a good way to improve your pickleball game. Drop-in play is at designated times and designed for anyone of any level to rotate into games with different people. It is a great way to sharpen your pickleball skills and meet new people.
- Private lessons are available to any member who wants one-on-one personalized instruction.
- League play and tournaments are a great way to dive into competitive action when you have a solid pickleball foundation.
Why tennis is the long-reigning champ
What is tennis’ origins?
Tennis originated in 12th century France as Jeu de paume, Game of the Palm, because it was played with your bare hands. King Louis X played daily and was a huge fan of the game.
In the 16th century, the game developed into Real Tennis as racquets started to come into play. Tennis, as we know the game, did not come into fashion until 1859. It was popularized by Welch Renaissance man Walter Clopton Wingfield who patented the sport as lawn tennis.
Who can play tennis?
Almost anyone can play tennis.
Man, woman, and child. There is even wheelchair tennis with a world ranking system.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t play tennis?
As long as you can run (and some players stretch that term as MUCH as possible), you can play tennis. If you’re not suffering from any major injuries you’ll never be too old to learn this sport. They have Senior Championships up to 90+ years of age!
What are the benefits of playing tennis?
There are so many benefits to tennis players — the list is practically endless!
- Aids weight loss
- Improves strength
- Helps you socialize
- Lowers osteoporosis risk
- Promotes fitness and agility
- Increases your range of motion
- Improves hand-eye coordination
- Improves concentration and focus
- Supports your cardiovascular system
- Improves your problem-solving ability
- Improves mental toughness/resilience
- Improves balance and body/motor control
- Helps you learn how to deal with adversity
- Increases Vitamin-D exposure (especially when living in SoCal where you can play outside year-round)
5 ways to play tennis at the Paseo Club
The Paseo Club has eleven tennis courts and two hybrid courts (tennis and pickleball).
- Adult Starters and Cardio Tennis offer the opportunity to learn the game with a seasoned coach. The instructor teaches all the basics you need to know to play a game.
- Drill classes of all levels focus on live ball, match play, technique, strategy, and more. Drop-in play is also a good way to improve your pickleball game.
- Drop-in play is at designated times and designed for anyone of any level to rotate into games with different people. It is a great way to sharpen your pickleball skills and meet new people.
- Private lessons are available to any member who wants one-on-one personalized instruction.
- League play and tournaments are a great way to dive into competitive action when you have a solid pickleball foundation.
Which sport is better, tennis or pickleball?
The choice between tennis and pickleball depends on individual preferences, fitness levels, and goals.
Tennis is a more physically demanding sport, requiring extensive court coverage and powerful strokes. It can be a great aerobic exercise and is often preferred by those seeking a high-intensity workout.
On the other hand, pickleball is generally considered more accessible, with a smaller court and a slower pace, making it easier on the joints. It's popular among a wide range of ages and fitness levels, offering a social and enjoyable experience. Ultimately, the "better" sport depends on personal preference.
Trying your hand at court sports
Getting weekly exercise is essential for your well-being, regardless of age or ability. Choosing an activity that is both challenging and fun helps you to enjoy yourself and be consistent.
The Paseo Club has supported people in their fitness journeys for twenty years. Whether it is tennis, pickleball, weight lifting, cycle, yoga, or one of our several other options, there are tons of fun choices for you!
The Paseo Club is not just for working out. Stay and grab a bite to eat at our cafe. Alternatively, give yourself some TLC with a massage at the full-service spa. The Paseo Club hosts a range of social and charitable events every month. These are great opportunities to connect with other members and have fun.
The Paseo Club is your home away from home. Schedule a tour today!
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