Pickleball is officially the fastest-growing sport in America — again. According to a recent TIME report, more than 19.8 million Americans now play the game, marking a 45% jump from 2023 and over 300% growth in the past three years.
This surge isn’t limited to retirees or hobbyists. The 25–34 age group now represents the largest segment of new players, proving that the sport has evolved into a mainstream fitness trend. With growth like this, the message is clear: pickleball isn’t a passing fad — it’s reshaping how people move, socialize, and connect.
For fitness leaders and facility owners, Alan Jernigan says the rise of pickleball is more than a participation story — it’s a business opportunity. Across the U.S., tennis areas are being converted, local parks are adding new play zones, and private gyms are introducing indoor spaces to meet surging demand. As a result, the sport is driving both community engagement and new revenue models.
The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) reports that demand still outpaces supply, meaning there’s room for innovation. Gyms and athletic clubs can fill that gap by offering leagues, lessons, and social events that combine recreation with fitness. It’s an easy way to attract new members while diversifying services.
Alan Jernigan points out that the real advantage lies in accessibility. Pickleball is inclusive — low-impact, low-cost, and easy to learn — which means it appeals to a broad range of ages and fitness levels. That inclusivity can boost retention, strengthen community ties, and help gyms stand out in a competitive market.
For leaders in fitness and business, the takeaway is simple: trends come and go, but participation drives sustainability. Pickleball’s explosive growth shows what happens when accessibility meets fun — and when businesses are ready to meet people where they already are.
Read the full story here: TIME – Pickleball Is the Fastest Growing Sport in America
Leave a Reply