Pickleball, pickleball, pickleball! Does it sometimes seem like this sport is a constant topic of conversation? You’re not wrong: Pickleball continues to be the “it” activity for social groups seeking both fitness and fun.
For those who have a desire to discover what all the hype is about, Life Time is rolling out a brand-new program: Play Learn Love Pickleball. This complimentary two-class offering serves as an introduction to the sport — teaching you about the rules and scoring — as well as basic skills and techniques that can help you feel comfortable and confident playing with friends or other members at your athletic country club.
We spoke with Gordon Reid, national racquet sports leader at Life Time in Eden Prairie, Minn., to learn more about Play Learn Love Pickleball.
Life Time | What is Play Learn Love Pickleball programming at Life Time?
Gordon Reid | Play Learn Love Pickleball is our new branded program for adults who are new to or beginners at the sport of pickleball. This program is complimentary for Life Time members and is comprised of two 90-minute curriculum-based classes.
In these classes, participants learn the basics of playing pickleball, including the need-to-know rules of how to play, as well as elements of technique, strategy, shot selection, court positioning, and scoring. They also learn the differences between singles and doubles game play.
Each class has a six-to-one ratio of six players to one coach; each coach is a certified pickleball professional.
This is a play- and partner-based curriculum, and that format and design was intentional. This means that the pickleball pro does not simply stand next to a cart and feed balls to the players. Instead, everyone is involved in continuous, back-and-forth of play.
This is also a student-centered model, meaning participants start playing right away, which creates a more fun experience and dynamic environment.
LT | Why is this program called “Play Learn Love”?
GR | Each word was chosen and placed with intention. The word “play” represents the play-based nature of the class and the fact that participants will be playing the sport within the first 10 minutes. Game play is encouraged as the first step to learning.
“Learn” is what happens while you are playing. During play, the coach teaches you the rules and fundamentals of the game while answering any questions you may have.
“Love” is what we hope naturally happens while learning to play pickleball. We hope members fall in love with playing the game!
LT | Who is Play Learn Love Pickleball designed for — and why might someone who’s never played pickleball want to get started?
GR | Play Learn Love Pickleball is meant for true beginners, including those who’ve never picked up a paddle or those who’ve casually played but would like to learn more and play with more confidence.
If the buzz of the sport alone doesn’t entice you enough to try it, there are many reasons why playing pickleball is beneficial for your health. First, this is a social game. You naturally develop relationships with the people you play with, and that type of interaction and connection is important for mental well-being.
Second, we’re a population that has become increasingly sedentary over time, and if you’re playing pickleball, you’re staying active and doing something that’s weight-bearing, which is beneficial for your bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Plus, finding that pickleball is something that brings you joy and keeps you active has its own advantages to your health, including helping you stay consistent with fitness.
The sport can also be a great outlet for those who enjoy competition. It’s beneficial for your health to simply challenge yourself to try something and learn a new skill.
LT | After completing Play Learn Love Pickleball, what might come next for players?
GR | There are many options for players who want to continue with pickleball after completing the program. Your pickleball pro can recommend the best path for you based on your reason for playing, such as if you want to play socially, competitively, and/or for general fitness.
For more social players, a pickleball mixer might be a great option. You can sign up for a mixer at a certain DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) level and play with others who are at the same skill level as you. Mixers typically consist of playing one game with a designated partner, then rotating to a new partner. It’s a great way to meet new people!
If you’re seeking a higher level of competition, I would recommend signing up for a tournament, which are often held at our Life Time clubs. You can compete against those with a similar ability as you.
An option for social and competitive players is to sign up for an instructional league. Length of leagues vary: Some may be weekly for six weeks or go up to 14 weeks. (Check with your athletic country club to learn about the league options available to you.) You can sign up with a partner or by yourself and be paired up with another player.
For those who want to continue developing their skills in and knowledge of pickleball, I suggest registering for a clinic or a private lesson with a pickleball pro.
If you want to continue playing for general fitness, you can always reserve open court time at the club or consider a league, which is a great way for players to be social and competitive while continuing to learn the game. Check with your athletic country club to learn more about the specific pickleball offerings available at your location.
LT | I’m interested! How can I register for Play Learn Love Pickleball?
GR | Members can register for Play Learn Love Pickleball in the Life Time app. You can also register in-person at the club or by calling your club’s reservation desk.
