Mumbai has a vibrant sports scene that keeps evolving. The city is well-known for events like the Mumbai Marathon and iconic venues like Wankhede Stadium, where cricket legends have made history, including India’s win in the 2011 World Cup.
Now, a new player has entered the arena: pickleball. This fun sport is catching on quickly, not just among fitness enthusiasts but also celebrities like Aamir Khan and Sharvari.
Pickleball is becoming a popular weekend activity for people from all walks of life. It’s not just for the elite anymore.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is an easy-to-learn racquet sport played with a plastic ball and paddles. You can play it in singles or doubles, making it a great option for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. It’s designed to be accessible, making it appealing to both beginners and seasoned players.
This sport originated in the United States in the 1960s, and now Mumbai is embracing it with enthusiasm.
Why Pickleball is Gaining Popularity in Mumbai
Why is everyone in Mumbai falling in love with pickleball? According to Maitri, co-founder of the fitness center Squat Up, the sport strikes a balance between being physically demanding and enjoyable. She says it appeals to people of all fitness levels.
Aditya Khanna, a notable figure in the pickleball community, adds that the sport fosters a sense of community. After the pandemic, there’s been a surge in outdoor activities, and pickleball offers a fun way to stay active with less physical strain.
How Does Pickleball Compare to Other Sports?
One reason pickleball is popular is that it provides a solid workout without the intensity of tennis. Its courts are smaller than tennis courts, making it slower-paced, which is ideal for those seeking a less demanding game.
Unlike badminton, which uses a shuttlecock, pickleball is played with a ball, creating a unique experience. Aditya highlights that tennis has long been established as the top racquet sport globally, but pickleball is currently the fastest-growing sport, attracting many new players.
Maitri points out a significant increase in interest, with a 30% to 40% rise in participation over the past year. New facilities and courts are being built to accommodate the growing crowd.
Why Pickleball Fits Perfectly in Mumbai
Space is a critical factor in Mumbai, where every square foot counts. Pickleball’s compact court size means it requires less space compared to traditional sports like tennis. This aligns with Mumbai’s fast-paced lifestyle.
Additionally, Mumbai’s humid climate suits pickleball well. Players can enjoy games without feeling exhausted, thanks to the sport’s moderate intensity. Whether indoors or outdoors, pickleball adapts to the city’s weather, allowing for comfortable play year-round.
The sport is also beginner-friendly. With its simple rules and easy-to-handle equipment, anyone can pick up a paddle and start playing quickly. This makes pickleball appealing to seniors and newcomers alike.
The Bright Future of Pickleball in Mumbai
The future of pickleball in Mumbai looks promising. Interest is surging in schools, community centers, and clubs. Recent estimates indicate that India has over 1,000 pickleball courts and around 70,000 amateurs participating in the sport.
As Mumbai’s sports culture evolves, pickleball is poised to become an integral part of the city’s sporting landscape.
Check out this related article: Transform Your Style: Discover Shraddha Kapoor’s Iconic Looks at Myntra’s Valentine’s Day Fashion Carnival Sale – Live Lifestyle News for February 8, 2025!
Source linkpickleball,Pickleball League,pickleball mumbai
