Pickleball Gains Popularity in the Netherlands: A Fun Way to Stay Fit

Pickleball is rapidly gaining traction in the Netherlands, with players reporting significant fitness benefits. During the Oldambt Open tournament, participants highlighted that two hours of play can equal around 11,000 steps. The sport, which combines elements of tennis and table tennis, is praised for its accessibility and appeal across different age groups. With nearly forty members in the local club, organizers are optimistic about its growth, aiming to encourage more people to engage in physical activity. Join the pickleball movement and discover why it's becoming a favorite pastime for many.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 26, 2026, 20:01 IST

The Rise of Pickleball in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, a burgeoning pickleball community is making waves, with participants claiming that two hours of play can equate to approximately 11,000 steps. This assertion was highlighted during the Oldambt Open Pickleball tournament held in Finsterwolde, which saw around 60 players from various regions, including southern parts of the country and Germany, come together.

Leo Platerink, the chairman of the Oldambt Open Pickleball, emphasized the sport's dual benefits of fitness and enjoyment. He noted, “After two hours of playing, I typically cover about eight and a half kilometers, which is roughly eleven thousand steps.”

Originating in the United States, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court using paddles and a perforated plastic ball. Club member Marcel Werkman described the simplicity of getting started: “All you need is a paddle, some shorts, a shirt, shoes, and one of those hard plastic balls with holes.”

While still in its developmental stages in the province, organizers are optimistic about the sport's future growth. Globally, millions have embraced pickleball due to its accessibility and cross-generational appeal. Platerink shared, “We currently have nearly forty members. Our enthusiasm is growing, and we aim to encourage people to be more active, moving away from screens like TikTok and YouTube.”

The tournament featured matches played on seven courts, with all games conducted in doubles and categorized by skill levels. For Albert Dreijer, pickleball has emerged as the perfect substitute for outdoor tennis. He remarked, “I play tennis in Beerta, but the weather can be unpredictable. Here, it’s indoors, allowing for consistent play. From now on, I’ll attend pickleball sessions on Thursdays to stay active.”

Werkman added that pickleball merges elements from various racket sports while being gentler on the body. “It’s a blend of table tennis and traditional tennis. It’s particularly suitable for those who may be injury-prone, making it an excellent option for staying active,” he explained.