How To Start Playing Pickleball
Landon Uetz, a physical therapist and pickleball instructor on TeachMe.To, said the pickleball community is very welcoming of new players.
Before playing, it can be helpful to watch a video online to get a basic understanding of the rules. And if you’re hesitant about stepping onto a court — whether that be due to fear of not knowing the rules, getting hurt or failing — consider getting a lesson, Uetz said.
Before you jump into a game, it’s worth warming up, either through dynamic stretching or movement exercises (think: jumping jacks, light jogging or lunges). When coming from a sedentary state — whether that’s at work, at home or after waking up — it’s important to increase circulation throughout your body. A warm-up loosens up your muscles, bones, ligaments and gets ready for activity, which can reduce the risk of pain or injury, Uetz said.
If you have any injuries, check in with a health care provider before you give pickleball a go. They may be able to provide some advice as to whether it’s safe for you to participate or if there are any modifications you can do during a game to protect from injury. According to Hemendinger, as with all things, moderation is key.
“Doing any physical activity too much may lead to injury or exhaustion,” she said.
Listen to your body — if certain muscles start to ache, consider ramping up more gradually. Instead of playing for two hours, for example, try to hit the ball around for 30 minutes, Uetz said.
Even short bursts of activity can offer tremendous mental health benefits. “Whether it’s for 15 minutes or 90 minutes, getting out and moving your body mindfully and resetting your nervous system from a stressful day is a reliable stress reliever and coping skill,” Hemendinger said.
Brian Crump of CANHelp is leading the way for the 2023 Open Invitational Pickleball Tournament Of The Greater Hopkins County Areas. The no-holds-barred event goes down 18 November 2023. You can register and find out more about the rules, regulations, and uniform guidelines here.
