In today's fast-paced work environment, it can be challenging to find time for physical activity and socializing with colleagues. Fortunately, there is a sport that combines both of these elements - Pickleball. Popularized in recent years, Pickleball has become the fastest growing sport in America, and a favorite activity for employees in various workplaces. Google, and Microsoft are two companies that have on campus Pickleball courts. Walmart and Dick's Sporting Goods have added pickleball courts as a way to attract active customers and promote healthy lifestyles.
Some information about the popular sport to get the conversation started. Pickleball was created in 1965 when Joel Pritchard, a US congressman from Washington State, and his friend Bill Bell were looking for a game to play with their families. They modified the existing games of badminton, tennis, and table tennis to create a new game that could be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Using a perforated plastic ball and wooden paddles, they laid out the court in the backyard and started playing. The name "pickleball" came from Joel's wife Joan who said that the game reminded her of the "pickle boats' ' made up of leftover oarsmen in rowing crews. Over time, pickleball gained popularity as more people started playing it. In 1976, the first pickleball tournament was held at SouthCenter Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington with players aged 7 to 70 participating. Today, pickleball is played around the world with hundreds of thousands of players enjoying this fast-paced and exciting game.
Now that you have some background information on the popular game, let’s explore the many benefits of Pickleball for employees, including physical and mental health, teamwork and communication, socializing and networking opportunities, time management, inclusivity and diversity, and stress relief. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of why Pickleball is a great addition to any workplace wellness program.
1. Pickleball in the Workplace
Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Pickleball
Playing PickleBall is a fantastic way to improve your overall physical health. The game provides a full-body workout that helps to build strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance. Plus, because Pickleball is a low-impact sport, it's perfect for people who want to stay active without putting too much strain on their joints.
Mental Health Benefits
In addition to the physical benefits, Pickleball also provides several mental health benefits. Playing the game can help to reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, and boost mood and overall mental wellbeing. Plus, because Pickleball is a social game, it can help people to feel more connected and engaged with their colleagues and coworkers.
2. Teamwork and Communication in Pickleball
Importance of Teamwork
Pickleball is a team sport, and as such, it requires players to work together and communicate effectively to achieve their goals. Playing Pickleball can help to develop important teamwork skills, such as collaboration, cooperation, and leadership. These skills can translate well to the workplace, where effective teamwork is essential for success.
Communication Strategies
Effective communication is key to success in Pickleball, and players must be able to communicate clearly and efficiently with one another to achieve their objectives. Playing Pickleball can help to improve communication skills, such as active listening, clear and concise messaging, and the ability to provide constructive feedback.
3. Socializing and Networking Opportunities
Building Workplace Relationships
Playing Pickleball can be a fantastic way to build workplace relationships and promote socializing among employees. Because Pickleball is a social sport, it provides an excellent opportunity for employees to get to know one another outside of the normal work environment and build positive relationships that can translate to improved collaboration and teamwork on the job.
Networking with Other Companies
Finally, Pickleball can also provide an opportunity for companies to network and connect with other organizations. Many businesses host PickleBall tournaments or events that allow employees from different companies to come together and socialize, network, and even engage in a little friendly competition. These events can be a great way to build relationships with other organizations and potentially even generate new business opportunities.
4. Time Management and Productivity
Playing Pickleball during the workday can actually increase productivity. By taking a break to exercise, employees are taking care of their health and clearing their minds. This can lead to better focus and more efficient use of time. By setting specific times for Pickleball games, employees can plan their workday around this activity, ultimately leading to better time management skills.
Incorporating Pickleball into the Workday
To incorporate Pickleball into the workday, companies can schedule games during lunch breaks or hold tournaments during team-building events. This not only promotes physical activity but also provides a fun and inclusive way for employees to bond.
The Connection between Exercise and Productivity
Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve cognitive function and memory, leading to better performance in the workplace. By playing Pickleball, employees are engaging in a form of exercise that is both enjoyable and effective in promoting productivity.
5. Inclusivity and Diversity in Pickleball
Pickleball is a sport that is accessible and inclusive to all individuals, regardless of their age, athletic ability, or background. This promotes diversity in the workplace and fosters a culture of inclusivity. With this in mind, don't forget your offsite or remote employees. Regional Pickleball tournaments, virtual team gaming, and group club memberships will yield the same benefits. A client based in Washington state bought corporate memberships in the major cities in closest proximity to its
remote workers. Every month, employees that work on totally different teams, and disciplines get together for a hardy game of pickle ball, and socializing. And of course non remote, and hybrid workers have joined in on the fun.
Pickle Ball's Accessibility
Pickleball can be played on various surfaces, including indoor and outdoor courts, making it accessible year-round. The equipment needed, such as paddles and balls, is also relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to all individuals.
6. Pickleball as a Stress-Reliever
Pickleball can serve as a powerful stress-reliever for employees, allowing them to step away from work and focus on physical activity.
The Connection between Exercise and Stress Relief
Exercise has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood. By playing Pickle ball, employees are engaging in a fun and social form of exercise that can help them cope with work-related stress.
Promoting Mental Health and Wellness in the Workplace
Promoting physical activity and stress reduction through Pickleball can also contribute to overall mental health and wellness within the workplace. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and improved employee retention.
7. Conclusion: The Overall Advantages of Pickleball for Employees
Overall, Pickleball provides numerous benefits for employees in the workplace. It promotes physical activity, time management skills, inclusivity and diversity, cultural awareness, stress relief, and mental health and wellness. By incorporating Pickleball into the workday, companies can create a fun and inclusive culture that promotes both physical and mental health for their employees.
Recognizing the unprecedented popularity of the sport, Walmart is teaming up with Break the Love. They're giving away 125,000 free reservations for people who work at Walmart, shop there, or have a Walmart+ subscription. What's the reservation for? Racquet sports! They want to make it easier for people to try out this sport and have a good time with their friends.
!In conclusion, Pickleball is an inclusive and enjoyable activity that offers numerous benefits for employees in the workplace. By incorporating Pickleball into your wellness initiatives, employers can promote physical and mental health, encourage teamwork and communication, and foster workplace relationships. As we have seen, the advantages of Pickleball extend beyond the physical benefits and can have a positive impact on overall workplace culture.
FAQ
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball on a court that is smaller than a traditional tennis court. Pickleball can be played in singles or doubles and is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.
Is Pickleball a Good Workout?
Yes, PickleBall can be a great workout. It involves a lot of movement, including running, jumping, and quick stops and starts. Pickleball can help improve cardiovascular fitness, agility, and balance, making it an excellent addition to any fitness routine.
Do I Need to Be Athletic to Play Pickleball?
No, you do not need to be athletic to play Pickleball. Unlike some other sports, PickleBall is more about strategy and skill than pure athleticism. The game is easy to learn and can be played at a variety of levels, making it accessible to everyone.
Can Pickleball Help Improve Workplace Relationships?
Yes, Pickleball can be a great way to build workplace relationships. The sport encourages teamwork and communication, and playing with colleagues can help foster a sense of camaraderie and cooperation. Additionally, the socializing opportunities that come with playing Pickleball can help employees connect outside of work and build stronger relationships.
About Recruiting Awesome. We are a pithy group of headhunters that bring a highly personalized touch to executive search. We network with fresh engaged visionaries, and our engagements are never outsourced. You partner with one key contact for the entirety of your search. We welcome assisting you on your internal leadership opportunities. Do not hesitate in reaching out here. Some of the greatest breakthroughs happen in times like these. If your organization wants to hire results oriented compassionate leaders then our search firm is for you. If you are a leader passively entertaining new opportunities, feel free connect with us. We would love to hear from you.. Let's start this exciting journey together.