Have you ever thought about picking up a new sport but stopped yourself over anxiety of being a total beginner? We’re here to remind you that you shouldn’t be! 😊
Racket sports are perfect for adults looking to try something new, stay active, and maybe even meet some cool new people. We know what you’re thinking: “but, it’s cold outside!” So we’ve curated a list of indoor options for this post specifically. You’re welcome. 😉
Whether you’re into fast-paced action or a casual game with friends, there’s a racket sport that’s calling your name. Here’s a quick guide to five awesome options in the GTA—no experience needed!
1. Tennis: The OG Racket Sport 🎾
Tennis has been a fan favourite for years (understandably so). It’s fun, great for cardio, and super satisfying when you hit that sweet spot on your racket. Ready to try? Check out:
- ICM Tennis Oshawa
- 🎾 Lessons available for beginners (starting in January 2025) and intermediates (ongoing)
- 💲 Pricing: varies, but beginner lessons start at $150/month
- Ajax Winter Tennis
- 🎾 Lessons available for several levels (starting in January 2025)
- 💲Pricing: ranges from $309-375 + HST depending on the duration of the program
- Angus Glen Tennis Centre in Markham
- 🎾 Lessons available for several levels (starting in January 2025)
- 💲 Pricing: ranges from approx. $85-$160 + HST depending on the level and duration of the program
2. Pickleball: The Sport That’s Taking Over 🏓
Pickleball is basically the love child of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It’s easy to learn, doesn’t require a ton of running, and has a great community around it. Perfect for beginners! Places to try:
- Ontario Pickleball Academy
- 📧 Contact for lesson timing/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: $100 for a 1-1 lesson, $55/each for 2 people, $40/each for a group of 3, $30/each for a group of 4
- HiSports Oshawa
- 📧 Contact info at hisports.ca for lesson timing/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details
- One Health Clubs
- 📧 Submit form for lesson timings/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details
3. Padel: The Cool New Kid on the Block 🎾
Think tennis, but on a smaller court with walls that keep the ball in play. Padel is fast, exciting, and beginner-friendly. Once you try it, you’ll probably want to play again the next day. Head to:
- T.10 Padel
- 📧 Contact either Leo at t10padel.com or Luis at t10padel.com for lesson timings/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: $120-140 for a 1-1 lesson, $70-80/each for 2 people, $60-67/each for 3 people, $55-60/each for 4 people
- The Pad
- 📧 Submit form for a one-time free beginner clinic, and contact for subsequent lessons
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details
4. Badminton: Not Just for Backyards 🏸
Badminton is quick, strategic, and lots of fun. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, it’s a great way to work on your reflexes while breaking a sweat. Try it out at:
- Can Badminton Academy
- 📧 Contact for lesson timing/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details
- Su Badminton Club
- 📧 Contact for lesson timing/scheduling in 2025
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details in 2025
- Paragon Badminton Academy
- 📧 Contact for lesson timings/scheduling
- 💲 Pricing: $35.15 including HST
5. Squash: High-Energy Action 🥍
If you’re up for an intense, fast-paced workout, squash is the way to go. You’ll get your heart racing while learning to outmaneuver your opponent on the court. Book a court or lesson at:
- Ajax Community Centre
- 📧 Contact for memberships/lesson booking
- 💲 Pricing: dependent on duration of membership - adult 3 month membership is $154.50, adult 6 month membership is $241.30 and adult annual membership is $417.40
- 10XTO
- 📧 Contact for memberships/lesson booking
- 💲 Pricing: contact for details
Time to Grab a Racket, Toronto!
Why sit on the sidelines when you could be swinging a racket and having a blast? The GTA is full of great places to learn, so whether you’re looking to grow in tennis, rally in badminton, or give pickleball a try, there’s something for you.
Don’t overthink it—just sign up for a class and see where it takes you. You might just discover your next big hobby! 🙌
