Starting Pickleball After Retirement: What to Expect

Retirement opens the door to all kinds of new experiences—travel, hobbies, time with family—but one of the most rewarding discoveries for many retirees is… pickleball. Maybe you’ve heard a neighbor raving about it, or you’ve seen people at the park swinging paddles and laughing like kids. If you’re wondering whether it’s too late to try something new, rest assured: pickleball is made for this stage of life. Here’s what to expect when stepping onto the court post-retirement—and why so many people over 50 are hooked.

No Experience? No Problem.

The beauty of pickleball is how easy it is to start. You don’t need to have played tennis, badminton, racquetball, or anything else with a net. The rules are simple, the court is small, and most games are played at a pace that’s easy to manage, especially when you’re just getting started.

In fact, many beginners are retirees. People in their 60s, 70s—even their 80s—try pickleball for the first time every day and find it’s not only doable, but fun. And the learning curve? It’s delightfully gentle. You’ll be keeping up with casual rallies and even winning points before you know it.

The Gear

You’ll only need a few things to get going:

• A pickleball paddle (lighter than a tennis racquet)
• A few plastic balls (with holes, like a whiffle ball)
• Comfortable clothing and court shoes
• Access to a court (many are free at local parks or rec centers)

If you’re in the U.S., chances are high that there’s a public pickleball court nearby. Cities from Florida to California—and everywhere in between—have been investing in court space due to the sport’s explosive popularity.

If you’re elsewhere, places like Canada, Australia, and the UK are seeing big growth in the pickleball scene too. Even in Malaysia, the Philippines, and parts of Europe, local clubs and retirement communities are starting to embrace it.

Finding a Friendly Place to Play

This part’s easier than you think. Most areas have designated “open play” sessions where anyone can show up and get into a game. You don’t need a partner. You don’t need to know what you’re doing. Just show up with a paddle and introduce yourself.

In the U.S., check your local senior center, community rec center, YMCA, or town parks and recreation department. Many offer beginner sessions or clinics specifically for older adults.

If you’re in Canada or Australia, growing Facebook groups and local associations (like Pickleball Canada or Pickleball Australia) can help you find events or beginner sessions. International players might also check local expat groups or fitness clubs—pickleball is popping up in some surprising places!

Yes, It’s Exercise (But It Won’t Feel Like It)

Pickleball sneaks exercise into your routine in a way that doesn’t feel like work. You’ll move your body, improve balance and coordination, and break a light sweat—all while chatting with new friends and smiling way more than you would on a treadmill.

The smaller court size reduces the need to sprint or overextend, which is great for anyone with aging joints. And because most players stick to doubles, the pace stays manageable. You’re moving, but you’re not pushing your limits unless you want to.

Expect a Warm Welcome

One of the biggest fears people have when trying something new is not fitting in. The good news? The pickleball community is known for being open, friendly, and encouraging—especially for beginners.

Most players remember what it felt like to be new, and many will go out of their way to help you learn the ropes. It’s one of the few sports where it’s common to see a 65-year-old retiree rallying with a 35-year-old school teacher and a 75-year-old snowbird—all in the same game.

What Might Surprise You (In a Good Way)

• The fun comes fast. You’ll be laughing and enjoying yourself much sooner than expected.
• It’s kind of addictive. Many retirees who planned to play “just once a week” end up playing three or four times.
• It leads to more than just exercise. Pickleball players often form friend groups, travel to tournaments together, or even build vacation plans around where the best courts are.

Final Thoughts: The Best Time to Start is Now

If you’ve just retired and are looking for something new, active, and joyful to do with your time, give pickleball a try. You don’t need to be in top shape. You don’t need a sports background. You just need to be willing to step onto the court and give it a go.

And who knows? You might just discover your new favorite part of retirement.