Can pickleball be played indoors? You bet! This non-seasonal sport can be played indoors at any time of year, no matter what the outside temperature is. But there are things you need to keep in mind.
When you play indoor pickleball, you will find that it is much faster than outdoor pickleball. This is because the ball has less drag than an outdoor ball and it will travel much farther.
You can also speed up your game and play faster by lobing. Unlike outdoor pickleball, you can control a lob much better.
Despite the different playing conditions, indoor pickleball requires the same strategy and emphasis.
One of the major benefits of playing pickleball is its low impact on health. While some tennis players look down on the sport, it has been proven to help improve players’ volley and quickness.
Some older adults have taken up pickleball as a sport or recreational activity because a friend introduced them to it.
Although they may be a little skeptical when they first start playing, most players find that it is a fun and productive way to meet their fitness goals.
Cost
The cost of playing pickleball indoors is considerably lower than that of outdoor courts. Depending on the facility, you can expect to pay as little as $120 a month for a Diamond membership, plus about $2 an hour if you’re playing with friends.
Other facilities charge between $15 and $30 per hour for usage. These are all well below the costs you’ll incur at other facilities. The best part is that most of these locations offer private group lessons as well.
Another factor to consider is the amount of sunlight your pickleball will receive. The more sunlight it receives, the more likely it is to crack.
This can result in premature wear, which means more balls to replace. If you play pickleball often or at high speeds, the costs of pickleball can add up quickly.
Fortunately, indoor play is usually much more forgiving than outdoor play. And, you’ll save money on electricity by playing in a confined space.
Setting up a Court
Setting up a court for pickleball can be a challenging task if you don’t live in a climate where the sport is played year-round.
Although there are several associations that rent or own outdoor pickleball courts, those facilities are often only usable for short periods of time.
For this reason, it is more convenient to set up a pickleball court indoors. A temporary fabric-covered structure, or a clear span tension fabric building, is a cost-effective option that offers plenty of space and amenities.
The basic equipment required for pickleball includes a net and a hard surface. A court measuring twenty-four by forty-four feet is sufficient for a single game.
If you don’t have enough space, you can scale down the court dimensions if necessary. For example, if you have a small kitchen, you can set up a court there that is only 30 by 44 feet.
Balls
If you’re playing indoors for the first time, you might be wondering if pickleball balls are the same as those you’d use outdoors.
Playing pickleball indoors has a few advantages. The ball will likely be slower, and it will sit higher. This allows players to accelerate the pace of their game.
A quick lob will send your opponent’s eyes into the ceiling! In addition, you can play pickleball with spin to make it slide or skip across a wood floor.
Indoor pickleball balls are softer than those used outdoors. They’re designed to last longer and don’t break easily, so they’re a better choice for indoor play.
Many facilities provide balls for indoor use. A 3 or six-pack will give you a variety of options. Jugs balls are the original indoor balls, but you can also buy a slightly harder ball, such as an Onix Fuse, for similar play conditions.
Paddles
The paddles for pickleball can vary considerably from the outdoor ones. Indoor play requires a different type of paddle, as the ball is often hard to control. Using a good paddle is essential for a steady game.
Select a pickleball paddle that fits your hand comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to choose a paddle that is one to two inches larger than your normal grip size.
You may find that you need a slightly bigger paddle if you play singles or doubles indoors. Choosing the correct paddle will also ensure that you’ll be able to play at the same time with a partner.