Pickleball and badminton are both popular racquet sports enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Although they share some similarities, there are also several differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the commonalities and differences between the two sports and how they compare.
History of Pickleball and Badminton
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three fathers in Washington State, USA. The sport was created to provide a fun outdoor activity for their families. Since then, pickleball has become a popular sport in the United States and is now played in many countries around the world.
Badminton is said to have originated in India, with the game being played as early as the 1800s. It quickly spread throughout Asia and Europe, and is now one of the most popular racquet sports in the world.
Equipment
Both pickleball and badminton require the use of a racquet and shuttlecock (or “birdie”). However, the size and shape of the racquet and shuttlecock used for each sport are slightly different.
In pickleball, the racquet is typically larger and heavier than a badminton racquet, and the shuttlecock has a plastic covering and is slightly larger and heavier than a badminton shuttlecock.
In badminton, the racquet is typically smaller and lighter than a pickleball racquet, and the shuttlecock has a feathered covering and is usually slightly smaller and lighter than a pickleball shuttlecock.
Court Size and Layout
The courts used for pickleball and badminton are slightly different in terms of size and layout.
Pickleball courts are typically 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with a 3-foot-wide non-volley zone at the net. The non-volley zone is a designated area where players cannot hit the ball after it has been served.
Badminton courts are typically 44 feet wide and 88 feet long, with no designated non-volley zone at the net.
Scoring System
The scoring system for pickleball and badminton are also slightly different.
In pickleball, games are played to 11 points and must be won by at least two points. A point is scored each time a team wins a rally.
In badminton, games are played to 21 points and must also be won by at least two points. A point is scored each time a team wins a rally.
Rules and Regulations
The rules and regulations for pickleball and badminton vary slightly.
In pickleball, players must hit the ball below the waist on the serve and can hit it above the waist on all other shots. In addition, players must stay out of the non-volley zone when playing their shots.
In badminton, players must hit the ball above the waist on the serve and can hit it below the waist on all other shots. There is no non-volley zone in badminton, so players can hit the ball from any position.
Conclusion
Pickleball and badminton are both popular racquet sports enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Although they share some similarities, such as the equipment used, court size and layout, and scoring system, there are also several differences between the two, such as the rules and regulations. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which sport they prefer.