翻单杠、跳水的肌肉大爷，打匹克球、举铁的「金刚芭比」老奶，还有HYROX、马拉松赛场上的高年龄组别......从国外到国内，从互联网到身边，越来 越多的银发族抛弃「老人专属」养生模式，正在转头奔向更「硬核」的健身模式。 不服输的老年人，变多了 国家国民体质监测中心统计数据显示，2024年，全国60-79岁老年人经常锻炼的比例高达26.1%；80岁以上的高龄老人中，有14.7%活跃参与着锻炼。与十 年前相比，参与率都提升了10%以上。 老人们更爱运动了，也更会运动了。 除了传统的太极、瑜伽之类的舒缓运动，网球、羽毛球、匹克球等高强度运动，以及举铁、马拉松等实实在在挑战自我极限的项目，都出现了银发族的身 影。 夏初的全国中老年羽毛球邀请赛上，全国近2000名选手参赛，创下30年来的最高纪录。170岁以上年龄组的男双比赛里，90岁的周克和96岁的吴炳炎，分 别带着八旬「小将」搭档参赛，接起球来，毫不含糊。 低能量的年轻人不爱健身？没关系，高能量的老年人有的是力气。 2025成都马拉松中签名单中，60岁以上选手人数高达394位，且达标成绩线全部控制在4小时50分以内。不论竞技水平，能够站在起跑线上，突破年龄带来 的生 ...

Core Insights - Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity globally, characterized as the "fastest-growing emerging racquet sport" due to its low entry barriers and strong social aspects [1][4] - The city of Hebi, Henan, has been designated as "China's Pickleball City," marking a strategic initiative to develop the sport and transform the local economy [2][4] Event and Market Growth - The China Tennis Association announced the 2025 National Pickleball Championship, set to take place in Hebi, with nearly 400 athletes from 25 provinces and regions participating [1][2] - Hebi has constructed over 800 pickleball courts and trained over 260 professional coaches and referees within two years, significantly increasing local participation [2][4] - The number of pickleball events in China is projected to exceed 300 by the end of the year, showcasing exponential growth in market activity and community engagement [6][10] Brand and Sponsorship Involvement - Major brands like Li Ning and Red Double Happiness are actively sponsoring pickleball events, indicating a growing commercial interest in the sport [6][8] - The involvement of brands extends beyond equipment to include event broadcasting and cultural products, creating a comprehensive industry ecosystem [8][9] Industry Structure and Standardization - The establishment of national standards for pickleball equipment and competition rules in 2024 has laid a foundation for organized play and professional development [10][12] - The China Pickleball Tour (CPC) has diversified into various event formats, enhancing the competitive landscape and attracting more participants [10][12] Youth Engagement and Future Prospects - Initiatives to introduce pickleball into schools aim to cultivate a new generation of players, ensuring long-term sustainability for the sport [12] - Government policies are increasingly supportive of emerging sports, further solidifying the growth trajectory of pickleball in China [12][13]

Core Insights - The popularity of pickleball has surged in urban sports circles, with a reported 800% year-on-year increase in related orders since July, according to Meituan data [2][3] - The global pickleball industry is currently valued at 15 billion RMB and is projected to exceed 60 billion RMB by 2034 [3] Group 1: Characteristics and Appeal of Pickleball - Pickleball combines elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis, making it more accessible for beginners, with typical paddles weighing around 200 grams [3][4] - The sport is easy to learn, requiring only a few hours of practice for newcomers to play effectively, and has a smaller court size compared to tennis, making it suitable for people with varying fitness levels [3][4] - The cost of entry is low, with beginner paddles priced around 100 RMB, making it more affordable than tennis [4] Group 2: Demographics and Market Trends - Initially perceived as a sport for older adults, pickleball gained popularity during the pandemic as people sought outdoor activities, leading to a younger demographic embracing the sport [5][6] - Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Bill Gates have contributed to the sport's visibility, associating it with a vibrant and active lifestyle [6] - The sport is becoming a trendy choice among urban professionals, fulfilling the need for social and recreational activities after work [4][6] Group 3: Challenges in the Chinese Market - Despite its global popularity, pickleball faces challenges in China, including a lack of a mature commercialization path and limited spectator appeal due to low intensity and short distances [7][8] - The market size for traditional sports like tennis and badminton in China exceeds 30 billion RMB, while pickleball's market is still relatively small [7] - The penetration of pickleball in schools and youth sports is low, and there is a lack of a structured professional system compared to established sports like table tennis and badminton [7][8]

Core Viewpoint - Pickleball is gaining popularity among young people in China, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and is seen as a potential next national sport [1][4][14] Group 1: Market Growth and Popularity - PadelOne is one of the first professional pickleball clubs in Beijing, offering various services including court rentals, member activities, and training sessions [4][6] - The club has seen a significant increase in participation, with membership groups nearing 1,000 and growing [6][9] - Data from Meituan indicates a surge in interest, with comments about pickleball increasing by over 147% and related orders rising by 836% in July [7][9] Group 2: Demographics and Accessibility - Initially popular among retirees due to its low physical demands, pickleball is now attracting a younger demographic, particularly those in their twenties and thirties [2][4] - The sport is characterized by its ease of entry, lower costs compared to badminton and tennis, and reduced risk of injury [5][6] Group 3: Industry Involvement and Product Offerings - Major sports brands like Adidas, Li Ning, and Skechers are entering the pickleball market, launching related products [8][9] - The global pickleball equipment market is projected to grow from $1.61 billion in 2024 to $3.1 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 10.3% [9] Group 4: Infrastructure and Events - Cities are beginning to convert existing sports facilities into pickleball courts, with plans for significant expansions in places like Shanghai and Guangxi [12][14] - The sport will be featured in the 2024 Paris Olympics as a demonstration event, and a national pickleball tour is being established in China [12][14] Group 5: Future Potential - Experts suggest that while pickleball has the potential to become a national sport, it requires a comprehensive development system, including a competitive framework and youth training [14]

Core Insights - The sports industry in Sichuan is experiencing significant growth, with the total scale reaching approximately 500 billion yuan and over 1,700 manufacturing and related enterprises [5][6] - The 2023 national sports industry scale is nearly 3.7 trillion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of 11.3%, indicating a robust market demand [5] - The event in Chengdu serves as a platform for local sports equipment manufacturers to connect and explore new business opportunities, particularly in the booming badminton market [4][5] Industry Overview - The Sichuan sports manufacturing industry is thriving, with a focus on expanding local markets due to increasing consumer demand for sports products [5][6] - Major events like the Universiade and World University Games are driving the growth of sports consumption and the overall sports economy in Sichuan [5][6] Company Activities - Sichuan Handa Sports Goods Co., Ltd. is seeking partnerships to enter the badminton market, responding to rising customer demand [4][5] - Weimin Sports is expanding its retail presence in Sichuan, aiming for coverage in all 21 cities and states, and is shifting focus to consumer-oriented products [5][6] - Hongguan Carbon Fiber Technology Co., Ltd. has successfully launched lightweight carbon fiber pickleball paddles, selling 50,000 units last year, showcasing innovation in product development [6] Product Development - Companies are focusing on developing new products, such as the cost-effective badminton racket stringing machine by Nanji Feng, which has gained traction in the market [6][7] - The emphasis is on creating high-quality, locally produced sports products to meet the growing demand and enhance market competitiveness [6][7] Government Support - The Sichuan government is actively promoting high-quality development in the sports manufacturing sector, aiming to support digital transformation and smart upgrades in production [7] - Policies are being implemented to facilitate online and offline sales connections, helping companies secure orders and expand their market reach [7]

Core Insights - The article discusses the transformation of a snow sports equipment company, Snow Eagle, which has successfully pivoted to the emerging market of pickleball equipment amidst challenges in the snow sports export market [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Snow Eagle started as an OEM for ski gloves in 2002 and established its own brand in 2016, gaining traction with innovative products like heated ski boot bags and multifunctional sterilization backpacks [2]. - The company faced export market challenges due to international instability and trade wars, prompting a strategic shift towards pickleball equipment production [2][5]. Group 2: Market Opportunity - Pickleball, a sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a 35% annual growth in North America, with lower venue costs compared to badminton, making it accessible to a wider audience [2][6]. - The company has developed a range of pickleball products, including various types of paddles and balls tailored for different environments and skill levels [2][4]. Group 3: Community Engagement and Promotion - Snow Eagle has initiated community engagement through the establishment of pickleball clubs and organized competitions to promote the sport, aiming to increase public awareness and participation [4][6]. - The company has collaborated with local government and educational institutions to integrate pickleball into school curriculums and community activities, enhancing its visibility and popularity [6][7]. Group 4: Industry Impact - The rise of pickleball reflects a broader trend in China's sports manufacturing sector, shifting from a focus on price competition to creating demand through innovative products and services [7]. - Local government support has been instrumental in promoting pickleball, with initiatives to build facilities and train coaches, further solidifying the sport's presence in the region [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - Pickleball is gaining popularity in China, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it accessible to a wider audience [1][3]. Group 1: Overview of Pickleball - Pickleball originated in the 1960s in the United States and is played on a court measuring 13.41 meters by 6.10 meters, with a net in the middle [1]. - The sport has over 90 countries and regions with established pickleball associations, and in Guangdong Province alone, over 200,000 people participate regularly [1]. Group 2: Accessibility and Appeal - The smaller court size and slower ball speed compared to tennis lower the entry barrier for new players [3]. - The net height is lower than that of badminton, reducing strain on the shoulders and neck, while the equipment costs are also lower than badminton [3]. - Pickleball requires less technical skill in terms of spin and friction compared to table tennis, making it easier for beginners to learn [3]. Group 3: Social Aspects and Market Potential - The social nature of pickleball contributes to its popularity, similar to other trending sports like frisbee and flag football [5]. - While professionalization is still developing, various levels of competitions are being organized, and the China Tennis Association has issued rules for pickleball competitions [5]. - The rise of pickleball presents business opportunities, with many sports centers in cities like Beijing incorporating pickleball courts, although its prevalence is still lower than that of badminton [5]. - There are approximately 300 companies in China producing pickleball-related products, indicating rapid growth in this sector [5][6].

Core Insights - Jiangxi Shangyou County has successfully developed a robust fiberglass industry despite its geographical disadvantages, generating over 15 billion yuan in revenue last year [1][2] - The county has established a complete fiberglass industry chain from raw materials to finished products, making it a rare example in China [2][3] - The local fiberglass industry contributes over half of the county's industrial output and tax revenue, with one in five laborers engaged in this sector [2][3] Industry Development - The fiberglass industry in Shangyou has grown from fewer than 10 companies a decade ago to nearly 200 today, driven by strategic government support and investment [3][6] - The county has implemented measures such as establishing an industrial fund, ensuring energy supply, and attracting businesses from other regions to build a comprehensive supply chain [3][4] - Local companies dominate the safety and protection market, with a 25% share in national electric vehicle helmet production and over 40% in cable insulation materials [2][3] Innovation and Talent Acquisition - Shangyou County collaborates with over 20 research institutions to address R&D challenges and attract high-level talent through financial incentives [6][9] - The county has successfully introduced new technologies and products annually, enhancing the competitiveness of local companies [6][9] Policy Support and Business Environment - The local government has adopted a proactive approach to financial support, allowing eligible companies to receive subsidies without the need for application [7][9] - A supply chain platform has been established to assist with raw material procurement and product sales, reducing costs for local businesses [7][9] Future Directions - The county is focusing on expanding application scenarios and developing industry standards to strengthen its market position [8][9] - Initiatives like "shared intelligent manufacturing" are being explored to facilitate smart upgrades for small and medium-sized enterprises [9][10] - Ongoing projects include a new production base for electronic-grade fiberglass and innovative products like smart helmets and recyclable fiberglass materials [9][10]

Core Insights - Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity among young people due to its accessibility and lower intensity compared to traditional racquet sports like tennis and badminton [1][3][10] - The market for pickleball-related products has seen a significant increase, with sales growth exceeding 10 times year-on-year, outpacing badminton and tennis [3][4] - Major sports brands such as Adidas, Li Ning, and Anta are actively entering the pickleball market, launching new products and sponsoring events [3][7][9] Market Trends - The rise of pickleball is attributed to its inclusive nature, appealing to both beginners and experienced players, with lower equipment costs and moderate intensity [4][6][10] - The construction of pickleball courts is expanding rapidly, especially in urban areas, as the sport requires less space and infrastructure compared to traditional sports [7][9] - The establishment of the China Pickleball Sports Committee by the National Sports Administration in 2023 is expected to further promote the sport's development [7] Social Dynamics - Pickleball meets the social and emotional needs of young people, providing a platform for social interaction and stress relief, which has become increasingly important post-pandemic [10][14] - The sport's low entry barrier and flexible playing conditions make it suitable for casual play, fitting well into the busy lifestyles of urban workers [12][14] Competitive Landscape - While pickleball is unlikely to reach the same level of mass participation as traditional sports like basketball or soccer in the short term, it presents opportunities for growth in community engagement and lifestyle integration [15][16] - The sport is in an early stage of development regarding professional leagues and events, with potential for establishing a robust competitive framework similar to that in the U.S. [18][19]

Core Insights - Pickleball is emerging as a popular sport in China, with a growing number of enthusiasts and participants, likened to a "three-in-one" sport due to its combination of elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis [1][2] - The sport's accessibility, low equipment costs, and ease of learning are driving its popularity among various age groups, including children and adults [2][4] - Major sports brands are increasingly investing in pickleball, with companies like Adidas and Li Ning actively expanding their product lines and hosting tournaments [4][5] Industry Trends - The global pickleball community has expanded to over 90 countries, with significant participation growth in China, particularly in Guangdong and Shanghai, where the number of courts is expected to increase significantly [2][5] - The cost of pickleball equipment is relatively low, with paddles priced between 100 to over 1000 yuan, making it more accessible compared to other racquet sports [2][4] - The pickleball equipment market is projected to grow, with global sales reaching $204 million in 2023 and expected to hit $360 million by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% [7] Market Opportunities - The rise of pickleball has created business opportunities, with private coaching sessions priced similarly to tennis lessons, indicating a viable market for coaching and facilities [4][5] - China is a major production hub for pickleball equipment, with around 300 companies manufacturing related products, highlighting the potential for growth in domestic production and export [5][8] - The professionalization of pickleball in the U.S. has led to increased investment and revenue generation, with leagues like Major League Pickleball (MLP) attracting significant financial backing and partnerships [6][7]