Ever wondered why singles pickleball doesn’t get as much love as doubles? Here are some reasons singles pickleball often takes a back seat and why doubles tends to steal the spotlight.
If you’re someone who only plays doubles, you might be surprised to learn how singles can actually benefit your doubles game!
1. Yes, It’s Physically More Challenging
Singles pickleball is no joke – it’s a full-body workout that can really wear you out. Covering the entire court solo demands a lot of stamina and endurance. One player joked, “By the end of a singles match, I’m practically gasping for air. It’s a bit too intense for a laid-back game.”
The rapid direction changes in singles can also take a toll on your joints. Another player pointed out, “It’s not the cardio that gets me; it’s the strain on my ankles and knees.”
2. It’s All On You
Singles pickleball is a whole different ball game – it’s all about speed, precision, and taking full responsibility for every shot. There’s no partner to cover for you, which means the game moves faster and can get pretty intense.
Playing without a partner can be a downside for those who love the camaraderie and teamwork in doubles. As one player said, “Singles pickleball is like a relentless sprint, whereas doubles offers a more strategic and collaborative experience.”
3. Doubles Steal the Spotlight
Doubles games are the darlings of pickleball tournaments and media coverage. Think of your favorite pickleball highlights – chances are, they feature doubles matches.
Many see singles as a warm-up or a stepping stone to playing doubles. This mindset keeps singles from getting the attention it deserves. As one player put it, “Singles is great for practice, but doubles is where the excitement and social aspect really shine.”
4. The Injury Factor
Singles matches are a whole different beast. The constant movement and quick direction changes make the game way more physically demanding, increasing the risk of injuries.
Also, because singles are so physically taxing, you often need more time to recover. That can be a real downer if you’re trying to play multiple times a week. Another player mentioned, “Playing singles leaves me sore for a day or two, while doubles isn’t nearly as rough on my body.”
Why Everyone Should Still Play Pickleball Singles
Alright, let’s spill the tea. Singles pickleball might seem tough, but it’s a blast and super beneficial. Here’s why you should give it a shot:
Fitness Frenzy: Singles is an epic workout and improving your stamina will benefit your doubles play in ways you can’t even imagine.
Skill Sharpening: No partner means you’re the star. Your precision, speed, and strategy will skyrocket. Imagine showing off those new skills in doubles!
Mental Toughness: Playing solo builds serious mental grit. You’ll learn to handle pressure like a pro, making you unbeatable in doubles.
Try to play singles at least once a week to reap the benefits and watch your doubles game soar.
Player Insights: The Real Scoop on Singles Pickleball
When it comes to singles pickleball, players have some strong feelings. Singles pickleball is undeniably demanding, as one player mentioned, “It’s tough on my knees and ankles, even for top tennis players.”
Finding opponents who enjoy singles as much as doubles can be tricky. Another enthusiast shared that they “love singles but finding opponents is hard; everyone seems to prefer skinny singles.”
Despite this, those who engage in singles find it rewarding. It provides an excellent cardio workout and calorie-burning session, as another player noted, “I enjoy the cardio challenge of singles, though finding like-minded opponents is tough.”
Singles pickleball can be a real battle on the court, with another player stating, “I’ve witnessed intense, exhausting singles matches; it’s not for everyone.” For those who enjoy moderate exercise and socializing, doubles often wins out. “I play for the social aspect and moderate cardio; singles would be too much on top of my daily gym routine,” said a regular player.
Singles pickleball may not be for everyone, but those who embrace it find it an incredible way to improve their game, fitness, and mental toughness.
Why I Think Everyone Should Play Singles Once in a While
Singles pickleball really pushes you to focus on every shot and movement since you don’t have a partner to rely on. This intense focus and quick decision-making make you sharper and more agile. And guess what? Those skills will totally up your game in doubles too.
So, if you want to become an all-around better player, mix in some singles matches. You’ll notice the difference!
The featured image in this article is courtesy of Matthew Moore/APP
