Capital Area Pickleball Association
Serving Dane County Wisconsin

There are two new indoor pickleball courts available to the public in Madison at a place called Ignite Pickleball on Madison’s West Side. The address is 7429 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, WI, 53719. During the week of October 28 – November 3, 2024, you can create an online account and reserve a court for free to try them out by going to https://app.courtreserve.com/Online/Portal/index/13402. Their general website address is madisonignite.com. From looking at the website, the courts appear to have wooden floors that are dual-marked for volleyball and pickleball. It also appears that they make use of temporary pickleball nets (rather than permanent ones). More information about Ignite Pickleball is available on their website.

You might have wondered what makes an indoor pickleball different from an outdoor one. This blog post is here to provide some answers!

First, it is important to know that all pickleballs, whether they are designated as being “indoor” or “outdoor” pickleballs, must follow certain guidelines set out by USA Pickleball.

To be approved by USA Pickleball, pickleballs must meet the following parameters:

• Must be 2.87 - 2.97 inches in diameter
• Must weigh 0.78 - 0.935 ounces
• Must bounce 30 - 34 inches when dropped from a height of 78 inches
• Must have a minimum of 26 and a maximum of 40 holes
• Must have a uniform color and an untextured surface

While staying within the parameters mentioned above for legal balls, pickleball equipment companies have nonetheless implemented several noticeable and consistent differences in the design of balls that are used for indoor versus outdoor play. Some key differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs include:

Number of Holes

Outdoor pickleballs usually have more holes, usually closer to the maximum of 40, while indoor balls tend to have fewer, usually between 26 and 30. Having more holes enables outdoor balls to adjust better to the wind, allowing for a more stable and accurate flight path. The additional holes provide outdoor pickleballs with a straighter trajectory, reducing the impact of wind gusts and crosswinds on your game.

Size of Holes

Indoor pickleballs have larger, wider holes compared to outdoor balls. This difference in hole size influences the feel of the ball, making indoor balls feel softer, slower, and easier to control than outdoor balls.

Weight

Indoor balls not only have larger holes but also tend to be made of softer plastic, which makes them lighter than their outdoor counterparts. The lightweight nature of indoor balls means that they tend to play slower, allowing players to execute more finessed, controlled shots.

Conversely, outdoor balls tend to be designed with harder, thicker plastic to withstand harsh, external weather conditions, such as wind and temperature fluctuations. The added weight of outdoor balls provides stability in windy conditions and also allows players to develop a faster, power game.

Hardness

Hardness is an important factor which influences the speed, bounce, and durability of pickleballs.

Outdoor pickleballs are typically thicker and harder than indoor balls, contributing to their faster play. Indoor balls, which are thinner, tend to bounce more because there is less weight keeping the ball down. While a bouncy ball is fine for indoor play, when outside, a bouncier ball will be more affected by weather.

Additionally, the harder materials of outdoor balls enables them to withstand the rigors of outdoor play, where rougher surfaces and unpredictable weather conditions are common. However, this added hardness can also make outdoor pickleballs more susceptible to cracking, as they possess fewer elastic properties compared to their indoor counterparts.

Indoor balls, with their softer construction, are less likely to crack but may not fare well if subjected to outdoor elements.

Conclusion

While you can use an indoor ball outdoors and vice versa, it's not advisable if you want to maximize your performance and enjoyment of the game. Instead, you should select a pickleball that is specifically designed for the type of play in which you plan to engage.

For indoor play, choose a pickleball with fewer, wider holes, lighter weight, and softer construction. These features will better enable you to execute precise shots and control the game with finesse.

Conversely, outdoor pickleballs, with their higher hole count, smaller holes, increased hardness, and heavier weight, are better able to handle the challenges of outdoor environments, such as wind and rough surfaces.

One thing to note, however, is that for the best experience, if you are going to be playing indoors on a tennis or pickleball hardcourt surface, then you should plan to play with an outdoor pickleball (since you are essentially playing on an outdoor surface indoors).

Happy pickling!

In pickleball, understanding the significance of positioning on the court is paramount to mastering the game. One key principle for success involves moving up to the kitchen line as soon as possible, rather than hanging back at the baseline. Let's explore why embracing this approach can elevate your gameplay and help you and your partner dominate the court.

The Non-Volley Zone line, or kitchen line, is the white line that is located 7 feet from the net on either side. The kitchen line marks a strategic zone that allows players to exert pressure on their opponents and maintain control of the game. Most points in pickleball are won at the kitchen line. This is the case for a few key reasons:

• Advancing to this area enables you to dictate the pace of play and take advantage of opportunities for aggressive shot placement. Making plays from the kitchen line leaves your opponents with less time to react to the next shot, since it places you closer to them. This in turn puts pressure on them, which makes it more likely that they will make errors.
• It is easier to hit down on the pickleball when you play at the kitchen line, thereby causing your opponents to make forced errors.
• Positioning yourself and your partner at the kitchen line limits the angles that your opponents have to hit shots. There are fewer openings and opportunities for your opponents to attack you and your partner. Being up at the kitchen line enables you and your partner to return more shots from your opponents.
• By being up at the kitchen line, you and your partner will have less distance to cover on your side of the pickleball court. You won’t have to run all over the court to track down your opponents’ shots, enabling you to use your energy more efficiently and effectively.

Playing from the baseline puts you and your partner at a disadvantage for a few reasons:

• You are generally forced to rely on defensive play, rather than being able to seize opportunities for offensive volleys and overheads.
• Because you are significantly farther back from the net (22 feet) than your opponents at the kitchen line (7 feet), your opponents will have more time to react, set up their shots, and control the points.
• Your shots will also be easier for your opponents to return and put away, since you will usually have to hit up on the ball.
• Because you and your partner are 22 feet back from the net, it will be relatively easy for your opponents to win points by hitting soft little drop shots over the net.

Having one partner who likes to play up at the kitchen line and one who stays back at the baseline may be the worst configuration of all, as it leads to wide open gaps on the court between the players and/or expanses of open court that are not covered by either player.

Teammates should always move together; both should be back at the baseline, both should be up at the kitchen line, and if one is pulled off the court, the other should move to the middle until the other player can come back onto the court to cover their half.

Having said that, if you have a choice between you and your partner playing back at the baseline or playing up at the kitchen line, the winning strategy is to both be playing up at the kitchen line whenever possible.

Happy pickling!

In pickleball, the serve is a fundamental aspect of gameplay and can set the tone for the entire match. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned player, refining your serving technique is crucial for gaining a competitive edge. Here are some tips that can help you serve more effectively:

• Serve deep (close to the baseline): A deep serve forces your opponent to hit their return from behind the baseline, making it more difficult for them to hit a deep, aggressive return. A shallow return makes it easier for you to control the third shot and gives you an easier opportunity to hit a drop shot, drive, or lob.
• Serve to your opponent's backhand: Most players have a weaker backhand, so serving to your opponent’s backhand will often result in a softer return, again making it easier for you to control the third shot.
• Mix it up: Sending a wide variety of different serves to your opponents can be an effective strategy, because it prevents them from being able to plan their return ahead of time. This means that you should send over some lob serves and some low, power serves; you should send many serves to your opponent’s backhand, but occasionally, also send some serves to their forehand. And, feel free to send over some flat serves, but some serves with spin as well!
• Keep your arm relaxed, and serve from your shoulder: Using a smooth, fluid swing will enable you to serve deeper and will make your serve more consistent.
• Hit the ball out in front of you when serving: This will give you more control and power.
• Practice: The more you practice serving, the more consistent your serve will become and the more alternative types of serves you will develop and hone.

Happy pickling!

Wondering where to play pickleball once the weather turns colder? Be sure to check out the Indoor Courts section of the CAPA website to find a list of local indoor pickleball facilities. One thing to note is that of all the courts that are listed there, only Pickle Pro Courts and Hitters offer dedicated pickleball courts. All the other facilities have multi-marked courts. And, not all of the courts at Hitters are dedicated pickleball courts. Some of their courts are multi-marked (with tennis lines).

Also, once you decide at which indoor facility you would like to play, you will want to visit their website as well as call them. It is possible that their website may not have the most updated information about current pricing for this fall/winter. Also, by calling, you can ask how it works to do open play or to reserve a court at the facility. At some locations, it is more cost effective to buy a membership, while at others, it is more advantageous to just purchase a punch card. You will also want to confirm the exact hours that pickleball is available this fall/winter, as hours may have changed since last year. Note also that some locations advertise their pickleball open play on playtimescheduler.com, while others just post the hours on their website. Some facilities are offering special promotions through the end of September before the cold weather sets in, so planning ahead for your fall and winter pickleball activities could quite literally pay off!

Happy pickling!

Pickleball's fast-paced nature and the intensity of play can cause players to work up a sweat, making proper hydration essential for maintaining peak performance. But how can you tell if you're becoming dehydrated, and what are the best ways to stay replenished on the court? Let's dive into the importance of hydration, learning how to recognize the signs of dehydration as well as the most effective methods to keep your body fueled during those action-packed matches.

Identifying Dehydration

Common symptoms of dehydration include thirst and dry mouth, but as it progresses, you may begin to experience a rapid heartbeat and feel dizzy, fatigued, and experience overall decreased athletic performance. These symptoms can indicate that your body needs more fluids. Be mindful of these signs during your pickleball sessions to ensure you're staying properly hydrated.

Avoiding Dehydration on the Court

1) Drink up: Aim to consume 6-8 ounces of fluids every 15-20 minutes during play. This can help replace fluids lost through sweat and maintain optimal hydration levels. You can kick-start your pickleball sessions by boosting your hydration before hitting the court. Aim to drink 16-20 ounces of water or an electrolyte beverage 1-2 hours prior to play.

2) What you drink matters: Avoid consuming sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages when playing, as these all tend to have a diuretic effect. On the other hand, beverages like water, electrolyte drinks and coconut water help quench your thirst and can replenish essential nutrients, such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which may be lost during physical activity or in hot weather. Keeping your drinks cold by using insulated water bottles or adding ice cubes can help lower body temperature and provide a refreshing boost during intense matches.

3) Listen to your body: If you're feeling thirsty, fatigued, or experiencing other signs of dehydration, take a break and rehydrate during or in-between games. Everyone's hydration needs vary based on factors like body size, sweat rate, and intensity of play. Even taking certain medications can impact how quickly or easily you may experience dehydration. Experiment with different beverages and drinking schedules to find what works best for you. If you are someone who experiences dehydration relatively easily, it might be a good idea to bring a chair to sit on when taking breaks. You can also buy a suction cup to put at the end of your paddle handle to use to help pick up pickleballs to avoid having to bend over if doing so exacerbates dizziness and light-headedness until your game ends and you can take a much-needed rest.

Conclusion

Staying properly hydrated is essential for maintaining peak performance on the pickleball court. By recognizing the signs of dehydration, fueling your body with the right fluids, and listening to your body's needs, you'll be ready to enjoy countless hours of fun and competitive play. Happy pickling!

The two tennis courts at Verona's Veteran's Park have now been successfully transitioned into six new pickleball courts! The work began in late July 2024 and appears to now be complete (except that there were two orange cones like little dunce hats atop the end posts on the fences as you enter, so the City may not technically consider the courts to be officially open quite yet). All the nets are up, and there are fences in between all the courts, as well as around the perimeter of the courts. Parking is within a very short walking distance from the courts, and restrooms are in a park shelter that is about a 1-2 minute stroll from the courts. There are no overhead lights for these courts, unfortunately. Also, no windscreens have been installed. It is not clear if some will be installed at a future time. The courts are surrounded by prairie, so windscreens would be welcome. The courts themselves are beautiful! I have yet to hear back from the Verona Parks and Urban Forestry Department regarding when the official opening will be, but the courts appeared to be playable now. Veteran's Park is located at 113 Lincoln Street in Verona, WI, 53593.

Beyond the joy of friendly competition, pickleball offers an impressive array of health benefits. So, grab your paddle, and let's explore how pickleball can serve up a healthier, happier you.

Physical Activity and Weight Management

Pickleball offers an excellent cardiovascular workout, keeping your heart pumping and your blood flowing. Regular play can strengthen the heart muscle, improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pickleball is a relatively low-impact activity that is generally easy on the joints, making it an ideal choice for players of all ages and fitness levels.

A typical game of pickleball, lasting around 30 minutes, can help players burn between 250 to 350 calories, depending on the intensity of play and the individual's weight and fitness level. The continuous movements, quick bursts of energy, and agility required during a game all contribute to this impressive calorie-burning potential. Because of its fast-paced nature and sustained physical activity, pickleball can help torch calories and support weight management goals. Regular participation can boost metabolism and promote the development of lean muscle mass, assisting in maintaining a healthy body composition.

Muscle Strength and Balance Improvement

The dynamic movements required in pickleball engage numerous muscle groups, helping to build strength, endurance, and flexibility. From swift sprints to powerful swings, this sport challenges the body in a variety of ways, promoting overall muscular health.

Pickleball can also promote better balance, as the game involves a multitude of dynamic movements and quick changes in direction. Players must constantly adjust their body positioning to react to the ball and their opponent's shots, engaging various muscles and enhancing proprioception – the body's ability to perceive its position in space. Over time, this can lead to improved balance and overall stability.

Bone Health

Weight-bearing exercises like pickleball play a vital role in promoting bone density, reducing the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis. By engaging in this dynamic sport, you can give your skeletal system a helping hand while having a great time on the court.

Better Mental Health, Focus, and Less Stress

As a form of physical exercise, pickleball also encourages the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. These neurotransmitters interact with receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain and producing feelings of happiness and well-being. Regular physical activity also helps regulate stress hormones, such as cortisol, lowering overall stress levels.

In addition, because pickleball is inherently social, it fosters connections, friendships, and camaraderie among players. The supportive atmosphere and shared experiences can help build a sense of community and belonging, which contributes to improved mental health and stress reduction. Laughing, bonding, and forming friendships through the game can provide an emotional outlet, alleviating stress, loneliness, and improving overall well-being.

Pickleball's strategic elements offer a stimulating workout for the brain. Pickleball requires focus, quick decision-making, and tactical planning. Engaging in this mental aspect of the game can provide a break from daily worries, offering a form of escapism and mental relaxation. As players become immersed in the game, they may experience a state of flow – a deep concentration that promotes a sense of control and enjoyment, further reducing stress. Playing pickleball may help to keep the mind sharp and promote better cognitive function.

Sleep Enhancement

Participating in regular physical activity like pickleball can contribute to better sleep quality. Exercise helps to regulate circadian rhythms, promoting the release of melatonin and lowering the core body temperature – both essential factors in initiating and maintaining sleep. Furthermore, engaging in a fun and social activity like pickleball can reduce stress and anxiety, allowing players to relax and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleball is more than just a fun and engaging sport – it's a pathway to improved physical and mental well-being. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the court, pickleball offers a wide variety of physical and mental health benefits. Happy pickling!

If you play pickleball outdoors, you know that on hot, sunny days, it can be hard to stay cool and perform at your best. One innovative solution gaining popularity is the use of cooling towels, a simple yet effective method to keep your body temperature in check during those intense pickleball sessions on sizzling summer days.

How to Use Cooling Towels

To activate a cooling towel, simply wet it with cool water, wring it out, and give it a few shakes. The result is a refreshingly cool towel that can provide instant relief on a hot day.

How do Cooling Towels Work?

Cooling towels function through the principle of evaporative cooling, whereby water evaporates from the towel's surface, drawing heat away from your body and creating a cooling sensation. The difference in temperature between your body and the towel helps transfer heat from your body to the towel, which is then lost through evaporation.

Choosing the Right Cooling Towel

When selecting a cooling towel, consider factors such as material, size, and durability. Opt for high-quality, absorbent fabrics like microfiber, which efficiently wick away moisture and retain their cooling properties for extended periods. Some towels even offer UPF protection, providing an additional barrier against the sun's harmful rays.

Maximizing the Benefits of Cooling Towels on the Court

To get the most out of your cooling towel during a pickleball match, follow these simple tips:

1) Rotate the towel: Re-expose sections pressed against your skin to the air every few minutes for maximum cooling.

2) Reactivate as needed: If the towel loses its coolness, simply re-wet and wring it out for a refreshing recharge.

3) Protect your neck and head: Drape the towel over these areas to regulate body temperature effectively and shield yourself from the sun. You can try putting a cap on over the towel to hold it in place.

Where to Buy Cooling Towels

You can buy cooling towels at most sporting goods stores as well as big-box retailers, like Walmart and Target.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cooling towels offer a convenient and efficient way to beat the heat during intense pickleball matches. By harnessing the power of evaporative cooling and choosing the right towel for your needs, you can maintain your performance on the court and enjoy a comfortable playing experience, even on the hottest days.  

Happy pickling!

Pickleball is known not only for its engaging gameplay but also for the tight-knit community that has formed around it. As more fans flock to pickleball tournaments, it's essential to understand and adhere to proper fan etiquette. In this blog post, we'll explore the ins and outs of being a courteous and supportive pickleball spectator.

Respect the game: While it's natural to feel passionate about your favorite players and teams, it's crucial to maintain respect for all players on the court. Refrain from booing, taunting, or engaging in any behavior that could be perceived as unsportsmanlike.

Know when to cheer: Pickleball matches can be intense, and it's essential to understand when it's appropriate to cheer. Cheering between points is generally encouraged, but try to avoid cheering during a point, as it may distract the players.

Observe the players' personal space: Players need their space to perform at their best. When seated near the court, avoid encroaching on their personal space, and refrain from touching or interacting with the players during the match. In fact, as per the 2024 Official Pickleball Rulebook, spectators should not provide assistance with line calls, and even a player’s coach is only allowed to provide coaching during official time-outs and in-between games (see Rules 6.C.4. and 13.G.1.j.).

Practice good sportsmanship: Pickleball is renowned for its friendly atmosphere, so make sure to be a positive force at tournaments. Congratulate players on a game well played and show support to both the winners and the losers.

Be aware of your surroundings: As a fan, you have a responsibility to be aware of your surroundings and ensure that your actions do not hinder other spectators' enjoyment of the match. Avoid blocking the view of other fans, and be mindful of your personal belongings, so they don't obstruct walkways or seating areas.

Follow venue-specific guidelines: Each pickleball venue may have its own set of rules and guidelines, including where you can sit and what you can bring into the facility. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines before attending a tournament to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

In conclusion, being a pickleball fan is an exciting and rewarding experience, and adhering to proper fan etiquette will help maintain the sport's welcoming atmosphere. By respecting the game, the players, and your fellow fans, you can contribute to the vibrant and growing world of pickleball.