Copyright timesnownews
Pickleball has rapidly emerged as one of the most inclusive sports in India, attracting players across generations. From children learning their first strokes to seniors seeking an enjoyable way to stay active, the game’s blend of accessibility, fitness benefits, and low injury risk has made it a go-to choice for all ages. At the Rise Up Championship (RUC) – Pickleball By The Bay 2025, the biggest ever Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) sanctioned PWR 1000 event in Chennai, players showcased not just their competitive spirit but also how the sport doubles up as an ideal fitness routine. Among them was Bengaluru’s Kavya Jayaprakash, who switched to pickleball after balancing life between badminton and a corporate job. Kavya, who is competing in both women’s singles and doubles categories, sees pickleball as more than just a competitive sport - it is also a versatile fitness option. “The net, first of all, is very low and the bounce will be very low as well as it is a plastic ball. Hence, the players have to bend to play the shots. It is an excellent exercise for stomach and belly and cardio. The players run a lot. And the court is very small. The movements will be bit less compared to other sports like basketball, tennis and all. So, the risk of injury is less. So any age category people can play,” Kavya told Pickleball Now. Her point cuts to the core of why pickleball is exploding in popularity across India: accessibility. Unlike high-impact sports that demand extreme fitness levels, pickleball offers a balanced workout - enough running and bending to get the heart pumping, but with significantly less risk of injury. 'Stay healthy' On the men’s side, Jaishnu Krishnan, who competed in the singles draw, echoed Kavya's sentiment. For him, pickleball’s charm lies in its inclusivity. “Pickleball is a sport where it can be played no matter your age, so even if people are like 60, 70 or like 5, anybody can just take a paddle, run around the pickleball court and have fun with family and friends. And it is also like you are getting your body moving, so it just keeps you fit and helps you stay healthy,” Jaishnu said. As both players highlight, pickleball is more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle choice that encourages fitness, family bonding, and fun. From six to sixty, everyone can find a place on the court. With its low injury risk, full-body movement, and social appeal, pickleball is fast proving to be India’s next big fitness revolution.
