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11 sports similar to tennis
Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world. But if you’re looking for a game similar to tennis, there are plenty of other options to try. Some of these games are fast and played indoors, while others are more laid-back or perfect for the beach. No matter what kind of game you're looking for, there’s something that will suit you. Here are 11 tennis-like sports worth checking out.
Padel or paddle tennis
Padel is a new sport similar to tennis but played on a smaller court surrounded by walls, like in squash. It’s mostly played in doubles and uses solid paddles instead of stringed racquets, along with a softer tennis ball. The walls allow you to try different shots, and the underhand serve makes it easier for beginners to get started.
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Pickleball
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis, making it a fun and unique game.
The game is played with a paddle and a light plastic ball with holes. The court is smaller, and the net is lower. Since it’s slower and uses an underhand serve, pickleball is often easier for beginners than tennis.
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Badminton
Badminton is another option, though it uses a shuttlecock instead of a ball and is played on a smaller court with a high net. The game is known for its fast reflexes, agility, and strategic shot placement. It’s played a bit differently than tennis, but you still need good hand-eye coordination. The quick movements make it a great alternative.
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Soft tennis
Soft tennis is a sport that started in Japan and is played with a softer rubber ball. This makes the rallies longer and easier on the arm, which is great for players who want a less intense experience.
The sport is very popular in Asia and can be played both indoors and outdoors. It uses lighter gear and has a few different rules than regular tennis. While it’s gentler, it’s still competitive and fun, just like tennis.
Touch tennis
A relatively new sport, touch tennis is played on a smaller court with foam balls and shorter racquets. The game is more about control, skill, and strategy than just power. This makes it a great option for players of all skill levels who want a fun, social version of tennis.
Beach tennis
Combining elements of volleyball and tennis, beach tennis is played on sand with a net at volleyball height. Players use paddles and a low-compression tennis ball, creating an exciting mix of fast reflexes and powerful volleys. This version of tennis is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor, sun-soaked sports.
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Table tennis or ping pong
Table tennis or ping pong as it’s also called, is played on a small table with paddles and a lightweight ball. The game requires quick reflexes, precision, and strategic play. While it lacks the physical movement of full-court tennis, its fast-paced nature makes it just as thrilling.
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Racquetball
Racquetball is another of the games similar to tennis, but it’s played indoors and doesn’t use a net. Instead, players hit the ball against a wall, so the game keeps going. It’s fast-paced and really tests your reflexes and endurance, making it a great choice for anyone who loves high-energy sports.
Platform tennis
Similar to padel, platform tennis is played on a smaller court with solid paddles and a depressurized ball. It's usually played outside in cold weather, and the wire screens help keep the ball in play longer. This sport is a fantastic winter-friendly alternative to tennis.
Squash
Squash is played indoors with a small rubber ball and a stringed racquet. Instead of a net, players hit the ball off walls. This creates a fast-paced, strategic game that requires agility, endurance, and quick thinking.
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Basque pelota
Basque pelota is a less popular game, but has a lot of history. It’s played with different types of racquets and balls, depending on the version of the game. Some versions resemble tennis, with players hitting the ball against a wall or over a net. This sport is particularly popular in Spain and Latin America.
More popular questions
Is pickleball basically tennis?
Pickleball and tennis share some similarities, like using a net and a ball. But in pickleball, players use paddles, play on a smaller court, and serve underhand. The game is usually easier for beginners, but can still be fun and challenging for advanced players.
What is like tennis but easier?
Pickleball, touch tennis, and soft tennis are all games similar to tennis. They’re generally easier because they have smaller courts, slower balls, and simpler rules. These games are excellent for beginners or those looking for a less physically demanding alternative.
If you're a tennis enthusiast looking for a fresh challenge, all of these sports offer exciting alternatives. Whether you prefer a casual game or a competitive match, we’re sure that one of these sports is right for you!
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