Pickleball Popularity at the Robson Resort Communities

Over the past decade, Pickleball has taken the active adult community by storm! Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, Pickleball has surged in popularity among retirees, becoming a staple at recreation centers, some schools, and 55+ communities including the Robson Resort Communities. But what makes this sport so appealing to active adults? Let’s explore Pickleball popularity at the Robson Resort Communities and its overall growth with active adults.

Serving More Than 130 Pickleball Courts

As Pickleball became the latest retirement sensation, the Robson Resort Communities expanded their luxury amenities to include courts galore. Combined, the Robson Resort Communities currently feature 130+ Pickleball courts with proposed plans to add even more courts at select communities. Find your Pickleball paradise and see what the Arizona 55+ active adult communities and the Texas retirement community currently offer.

Metro Phoenix & Greater Phoenix Area Pickleball Communities

The Goodyear 55+ retirement community, PebbleCreek, features 36 private courts for your Pickleball prowess. With a community of more than 1,500 Pickleball enthusiasts, it’s no surprise that residents have formed a variety of Pickleball clubs for some neighborly competition and endless fun!

Surrounded by everything that makes Arizona a top retirement destination, Robson Ranch Arizona is easily one of the best Pickleball communities in the Greater Phoenix area. Robson Ranch boasts 16 dedicated courts and in 2015, the community hosted the USA Pickleball Nationals event. Talk about Pickleball prestige! The Robson Ranch Arizona Pickleball Club website currently has over 600 members and growing.

Southern Arizona Pickleball Communities

Quail Creek in the Green Valley and Sahuarita area showcases a total of 32 dedicated Pickleball courts. The Pickleball complex also features a shady ramada, restrooms, and a parking area. The Quail Creek Pickleball Club promotes good fellowship and sportsmanship for active adults who enjoy socializing, competing, and learning together.

SaddleBrooke Ranch, just north of Tucson, takes it up a notch with a state-of-the-art 24-court, a ramada, benches, and restrooms. Pickleball is one of the largest sports within this 55+ active adult community. As the popularity of Pickleball continues to grow within the community, the SaddleBrooke Ranch Pickleball Association organizes events, Pickleball lessons, and many other activities focused on all things Pickleball.

At The Preserve at SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke in Tuscon, At The Preserve at SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke in Tuscon, the state-of-the-art Ed Robson Pickleball Center at SaddleBrooke offers 14 courts with a shade ramada and tables, bench seating, restrooms, and both car and golf cart parking spaces. The Preserve at SaddleBrooke residents can join the SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association, so grab your Pickleball paddle and join in on this popular retirement sport!

Texas Pickleball Communities

Retirement living for 55+ active adults at Robson Ranch within the Dallas / Fort Worth Metroplex comes with many benefits including 16 dedicated Pickleball courts and an active Pickleball club. The Robson Ranch Denton Pickleball Club offers a variety of league play, fun, and friendship. Read more about how this Texas retirement community has learned to love Pickleball.

When it comes to retirement living, Pickleball communities offer plenty of activities to keep you motivated, engaged, and active. Are you ready to take part in the Pickleball Popularity at the Robson Resort Communities? For more information about each Pickleball community and the outstanding 55+ lifestyle, contact us.

Why is Pickleball So Popular Among Active Adults?

Pickleball’s popularity among active adults can be attributed to its accessibility, social benefits, fitness advantages, adaptability, affordability, mental stimulation, and inclusivity. It’s a sport that not only helps individuals stay physically active but it also fosters a sense of belonging and community. Here are a few of the top reasons that Pickleball has become such a popular sport for retirees.

1. Accessible and Easy to Learn

One of the primary reasons for Pickleball’s popularity is its accessibility. The rules are easy to follow, and the learning curve is relatively low, making it easy for active adults of all skill levels to pick up the game quickly. Unlike tennis, which can be physically demanding and require more skill, Pickleball allows players to enjoy a fun, low-impact activity without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Social Interaction

Staying engaged and connected with others is something that many active adults seek after retirement. Pickleball provides an excellent opportunity for social interaction. It’s typically played in doubles, encouraging camaraderie and teamwork. Many players find that the social aspect of the game, along with post-game gatherings, fosters a strong sense of community. Active adults at the Robson Resort Communities have formed a variety of clubs and groups dedicated to playing Pickleball. Whether you are interested in joining a Pickleball club, looking for drop-in match play, or just want to watch the fun, the Robson Resort Communities offer this and more.

3. Physical Fitness

Pickleball is an excellent way for 55+ adults to stay physically fit. While it offers a good workout, it’s less strenuous on joints compared to sports like tennis or racquetball. The smaller court size and slower-paced rallies reduce the risk of injury, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain their fitness without overexertion.

4. Adaptable to Various Skill Levels

Pickleball can be played at different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. This versatility means that players can continuously challenge themselves and improve their game. For active adults, this adaptability provides a sense of achievement and a goal to work towards, promoting continued engagement with the sport.

5. Affordable and Accessible Facilities

Many retirement communities and recreation centers have recognized the demand for Pickleball and have invested in dedicated courts. Today, the Robson Resort Communities feature 90+ dedicated Pickleball courts throughout the Arizona and Texas retirement communities. Proposed plans to add even more courts in select communities are underway. The affordability of the equipment, including a Pickleball paddle, balls, and Pickleball shoes also makes it an attractive option for active adults looking for a new hobby.

6. Mental Stimulation

Pickleball requires strategy and quick thinking, which can provide mental stimulation and keep cognitive skills sharp. From teens to active adults and seniors, players appreciate the mental challenge that the game offers, as it’s not just about physical prowess but also about making tactical decisions during play.

7. Inclusivity

Pickleball is a sport that can accommodate individuals with varying physical abilities. This inclusivity factor allows people with different mobility levels to participate, reinforcing a sense of community and belonging. As more people discover Pickleball, it’s likely to continue thriving in the active adult community for years to come. So, whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, Pickleball offers something fun for everyone to experience.

Reach out to the Robson Resort Communities today to get in the game! Learn more about the new homes for sale, luxury community amenities, and 55+ lifestyle. 

How Pickleball is Played

So, you’re ready to grab a paddle and get in on the fun? Here’s a quick breakdown of the essentials to get you started:

The Pickleball Court:

Pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court, 44 feet long by 20 feet wide. A net, slightly lower than a tennis net, divides the court in half. There’s a key zone near the net called the “non-volley zone” or “kitchen” (7 feet from the net on each side).

Pickleball Equipment:

You’ll need a pickleball paddle, similar to a large ping-pong paddle. Paddles come in wood or composite materials. You will also need a pickleball, which is a perforated plastic ball with slightly different properties than a tennis ball. Beginners can usually find affordable options for both.

The Game of Playing Pickleball:

Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles. Here’s a rundown of the basic gameplay:

• The Serve: The serve is underhand and diagonally crosscourt. It must bounce once in the opponent’s service court (half court diagonally opposite the server) and avoid landing in the kitchen.
• The Double Bounce Rule: The first two shots of a rally (serve and return) must bounce once on each side before being volleyed (hit out of the air).
• Volleying and Groundstrokes: After the two-bounce rule is met, players can volley or play the ball off the bounce (groundstroke).
• Scoring: Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2. A point is only scored by the serving team. When the receiving team wins a rally, they don’t score a point, but they do gain the serve. In doubles, both players on the serving team get a chance to serve before the serve switches to the other team.

Essential Pickleball Rules:

• Non-volley zone: Players cannot volley the ball while standing in the kitchen area unless the ball has already bounced on their side.
• Faults: A fault (resulting in a point for the opposing team) occurs when a player hits the ball out of bounds, hits the net, double bounces (the ball bounces twice before being hit on their side), or volleys from the non-volley zone without the ball first bouncing.

Tips for Beginners:

• Focus on consistency: Aim for rallies with controlled shots rather than trying for winners right away.
• Master the underhand serve: A good serve can put you on the offensive or keep your opponent off balance.
• Develop good paddle control: Practice hitting the ball where you want it to go.
• Move your feet: Stay light on your toes and shuffle side-to-side to stay in position for the next shot.
• Most importantly, have fun! Pickleball is a social sport, so relax, enjoy the game, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.

Keeping up with Pickleball popularity among 55+ active adults, the Robson Resort Communities offer Pickleball courts for resident use. In addition, many clubs and groups have formed at the retirement communities to further their interest and experience. Discover the Pickleball amenities available at the Robson Resort Communities here.