Pickleball Craze Sweeps Across China, Promoting Fitness and Camaraderie
LANZHOU, China—Pickleball, a sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is rapidly gaining popularity across China, fostering both physical fitness and social connections.
From Workplaces to Universities: Pickleball’s rising Popularity
What started as a recreational activity is quickly becoming a nationwide phenomenon. In Baiyin City,Gansu Province,Wang Chen,a 28-year-old employee of the State Grid,and her colleagues have embraced pickleball as a team-building exercise and a fun way to stay active. They even converted a company badminton court into a dedicated pickleball facility.
Easy to Learn, Fun for All Ages
The accessibility of pickleball is a key factor in it’s widespread appeal. Its simple rules and gentle learning curve make it suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. As Wang noted, she was instantly drawn to the sport after watching online videos and experiencing its engaging nature firsthand.
Pickleball Gains Momentum in Education
The sport’s reach extends beyond workplaces and into the educational sector. At Lanzhou University, pickleball was introduced three years ago, and student interest has exploded since the creation of the university’s pickleball association.zhao Fang, a teacher in the sports department, notes that the association now boasts over 230 members with regular training sessions.
gansu Province Champions pickleball
Having been introduced to China over a decade ago, pickleball received a significant boost in Gansu province by being designated a key promotional project by the provincial sports administration in 2024, following a provincial competition late last year.
More Than a Sport: Building Friendships and Community
Beyond the physical benefits,pickleball offers a unique social dynamic. zhao Fang highlights the joy of continuous improvement and the opportunity to forge new friendships through the sport. Its inclusive nature makes it a valuable tool for building community and fostering positive relationships.
What challenges might hinder the continued growth of pickleball in China?
Pickleball Craze Sweeps Across China: Q&A
Pickleball’s popularity is booming in China! Here’s a deeper dive into this exciting trend:
Ready to join the pickleball craze? Discover the fun and community for yourself!
