Mention to most people that you play Pickleball and they look a bit bemused and ask if it’s the same as tennis, badminton, table tennis or padel tennis and the answer is yes it has elements of each of those within it but its a sport in it’s own right.
Pickleball is played on a badminton court with a lowered net using solid paddles (like table tennis but bigger) and a perforated plastic ball. It sounds easy, and it is easy but there are some interesting rules to follow and there’s a ‘kitchen’ and a ‘dink’ shot to navigate! It is great fun and there’s nothing better than hitting a good shot and scoring a point.
I asked ‘Google’ “Is Pickleball suitable for seniors’ and this was the reply: “Yes, a 70-year-old can play Pickleball. The sport's adaptability suits all ages, including seniors. It provides low- impact exercise, improves balance and flexibility, and nurtures social connection, offering a holistic approach to well-being. Age is just a number, and pickleball knows it!’”
It couldn’t be easier to have a go at Pickleball and discover for yourself just how much fun it is! Now is a good time to join, as due to high demand, a second group has just been started within Southwell u3a. This meets
every Wednesday, 1:00 to 3.00pm at Southwell Leisure Centre. Do hurry as even this second group’s spaces are
filling up fast!!
Equipment is provided and any comfortable clothing is fine but best to wear trainers\tennis shoes. The cost is £7 per session and it’s on a ‘pay as you play’ basis.
You’re welcome to come along any Wednesday to watch and see if its something you would enjoy or you can join and start playing straight away. Just contact Rob Lancaster (Group Leader) via the link below to our web page.