TLDR:
Here are the key elements of the article:
- Padel is a rapidly growing sport played in more than 130 countries by over 25 million people.
- Padel is easy to learn, provides a serious workout, allows mixed-gender groups to compete, is quieter than pickleball, and is relatively affordable.
The article discusses the rise of padel, a sport that is quickly gaining popularity around the world. Padel, similar to pickleball, is a game that involves swinging paddles at a ball. The author, Jessica LaRusso, shares her experience trying padel for the first time at Parker Racquet Club, the only club in Colorado with dedicated padel courts.
Robert Gurolnick, the director of padel at Parker Racquet Club, introduces the author and her colleagues to the game, highlighting its ease of learning for tennis players and the overall excitement of playing padel. The article emphasizes that padel provides a serious workout and is friendly on the joints, making it a great option for those looking for a low-impact physical activity.
One of the key points made in the article is that padel allows mixed-gender groups to easily compete, promoting gender equity in the sport. Additionally, padel is quieter than pickleball, making it a suitable option for residential areas. The affordability of padel at Parker Racquet Club is also highlighted, with free clinics and shuttle services available for members and guests.
Overall, the article encourages pickleball enthusiasts to give padel a try, citing its growing popularity, ease of learning, physical benefits, gender equity, quiet gameplay, and affordability. With the sport expected to gain traction in the United States in the coming years, now is a great time to explore and enjoy the game of padel.