Pickleball is becoming popular all over the world! The participation ratio has increased by over 202%. It is actually categorized under tennis due to the structure of the court, rules and standards it has.
But as soon as you dig in, you’ll find yourself occupied with questions like, is pickleball easier than tennis? Remember, pickleball is not as intense as tennis. But is this the only reason why you should play pickleball instead of tennis?
Before we jump to the final verdict, let’s find answers to why is pickleball better than tennis. And how hard is pickleball?
A Quick Overview: What are Pickleball and Tennis?
Before we understand how hard is pickleball, it is important to understand the format and rules of both games. Here’s a quick overview:
Tennis
Tennis is an international sport. It consists of two or four people playing with a racket and hitting the ball. This game is played on a larger court. The scoring system in tennis is a bit complicated as it consists of sets. Tennis players need to win four points to win.
Pickleball
Pickleball is more American centric. This is popular in the USA and is played with racket sports similar to tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Similar to tennis, it is played with a paddle and plastic balls with small holes.
The court is also slightly smaller than the tennis court, and the net is also lower. It can be played as a single or double and has been dubbed more easy for new intakers and older players.
Now that you know the basics, let’s address the burning question: Is pickleball easier than tennis?
How Physical Demands Comparison: Is Pickleball Easier Than Tennis?
One of the first factors to consider when comparing pickleball vs. tennis is the physical demand of each sport.
Tennis: A High-Intensity Workout
Tennis is a fast-paced and high-intensity game. It requires players to take most of the ground and hit the ball across the court. Tennis courts are comparatively larger than pickleball one. The large area requires more physical exertion.
A tennis player must sprint and change direction quickly for long rallies. This game requires cardio fitness, strength, and flexibility.
Pickleball: Easy to get started
In terms of physical intensity pickleball does take the lead. A smaller court size reduces the need for sprinting, as compared to tennis. In pickleball, you’ll require less running and fewer dynamic movements.
These aspects make pickleball more accessible to players of all ages and fitness levels. Many adults with joint problems prefer pickleball for this reason.
However, while pickleball is easier on the body, it still provides a good workout. The quick reflexes and fast movements help improve your mental focus.
Pickleball is a less challenging sport, but if you’re looking for a sport with physical intensity, then choose tennis over pickleball.
Skill Requirements: Is Pickleball Hard?
Now, let’s break down the skills needed for each game to see if pickleball is harder than tennis or not.
Tennis: Technical Skills and Precision
Tennis demands for high level of technical skill. Players must master different types of strokes, such as forehand, backhand, serves, volleys, and overheads.
You have to practice precise timings to face a fast-paced tennis ball (which can reach over 100 mph). Additionally, tennis players need to learn how to strategize, placing the ball in different parts of the court to outplay their opponents.
Pickleball: Easier to Learn, but Still Demanding
While pickleball does require skill, many players agree that pickleball is easier than tennis to pick up, especially for beginners.
The slower pace of the game, combined with the use of a paddle and lightweight ball, makes it easier to control shots.
When comparing paddle tennis vs. pickleball know that various strokes can take years to master. As a pickleball player, you’ll feel more comfortable after just a few sessions as compared to tennis.
However, that doesn’t mean pickleball is easy. As you improve, the game requires quick reflexes at the net, sharp footwork, and a solid understanding of positioning.
Plus, advanced players will still need to strategize and use a variety of shots to win points.
Rules and Scoring: Is Pickleball Harder Than Tennis?
When it comes to rules and scoring, pickleball is easier than tennis due to its simplicity.
Tennis: Complex Rules and Scoring
Tennis has a unique scoring system, which might be hard for you to adapt. You must earn points like 15, 30, 40, game. Also, you need to win sets that are usually determined by the best of three or five sets. There are also multiple rules governing serving, foot faults, and court boundaries.
Pickleball: Simplified Rules for Easy Play
In contrast, pickleball’s scoring system is much simpler. Games are typically played to 11 points, with players needing to win by two points.
The serve rotates after a fault, and the rules governing serve positions and court boundaries are easier to understand. This simplicity in scoring and rules makes pickleball easier to play than tennis, particularly for beginners or casual players.
Why Pickleball Is Better Than Tennis for Some Players
The reason why pickleball is better than tennis is due to its accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner, a senior, or someone looking for a less physically taxing activity, pickleball offers a great way to stay active without the steep learning curve of tennis. Here’s why some players believe pickleball is easier than tennis:
Low Barrier to Entry
Unlike tennis, where learning to play can take weeks or months of practice, pickleball can be picked up relatively quickly. Players of all ages can start enjoying the game after just one session, making it more appealing to beginners.
Suitable for All Ages
Pickleball’s smaller court and slower ball speed make it a perfect option for older adults who may find tennis too physically demanding. The game’s lower impact on joints and muscles allows players to continue staying active without the risk of injury that tennis might pose.
Social Aspect
Pickleball has a strong community aspect. With doubles being the more common form of play, pickleball allows for more social interaction than singles tennis. Many communities organize regular pickleball games, making it a fun, friendly activity.
The Competitive Side: How Hard Is Pickleball at Advanced Levels?
While pickleball is easier than tennis for beginners, it can still be highly competitive at advanced levels.
Professional pickleball tournaments demand fast reflexes, sharp footwork, and high-level strategy. Players who reach these levels often compare the intensity of pickleball with tennis.
At the advanced stage, your strategy for pickleball should be positioning, fast volleys, and controlling the pace of the game.
The quick reflexes needed at the net in pickleball can make it feel just as intense as tennis. So, while pickleball is easier than tennis for most beginners, it can still offer significant challenges as you improve.
| Aspect | Pickleball | Tennis |
|---|---|---|
| Court Size | 20′ x 44′ (smaller) | 78′ x 27′ (singles), 78′ x 36′ (doubles) |
| Net Height | 34″ at the center, 36″ at the sides | 36″ at the center, 42″ at the sides |
| Racket/ Paddle | Solid paddles, typically 7-8 inches wide | Strung rackets with larger hitting areas |
| Ball Type | Plastic ball with holes (slower and lighter) | Felt-covered rubber ball (heavier and faster) |
| Scoring System | Games usually go to 11 points (win by 2) | Games scored in sets (15, 30, 40, game); best of 3-5 sets |
| Game Length | Shorter, usually 20-30 minutes | Longer, ranging from 60 to 90 minutes or more |
| Physical Intensity | Lower physical demands; less running, easier on joints | Higher physical intensity; more running, sprinting, and endurance |
| Learning Curve | Easier for beginners; quicker to pick up | More challenging for beginners; it requires more practice |
| Serves | Underhand serve only, contact below the waist | Overhead or underhand serves more powerful |
| Gameplay Speed | Generally slower, more focused on placement and strategy | Faster-paced with more powerful shots and longer rallies |
| Best for | Players of all ages, especially older adults and beginners | Players seeking a more intense and fast-paced game, younger athletes |
| Social Aspect | Popular for doubles, often more social | Singles or doubles; more competitive environment |
| Cost of Equipment | Lower cost: paddles and balls are cheaper | Higher cost; rackets and balls are more expensive |
Is Pickleball Easier Than Tennis? Our Verdict!
So, now is the time to give a verdict! Is pickleball easier than tennis? The answer lies in your preference.
If you wish to opt for a low-impact, easy-to-learn game that offers great social interaction and fitness, then pickleball is easier than tennis.
But as you advance, you’ll learn that both sports have their unique challenges. These two sports provide a fantastic workout.
As a beginner, you can start with a less demanding and more social sport. But if you desire to seek an intense and impactful game, then tennis might be the right choice for you.
