GLOBAL SPORTS & LIFESTYLE / 2026

When life becomes about more than work,
that's when the best part begins.

Hard work gives us more choices. Good health lets us enjoy them.

From social racket sports to new fitness challenges, discover six activities attracting attention around the world—and new ways to make the most of life.

Explore a New World of Sport ↓

THE NEW LEISURE CULTURE

A game can become a whole new way to connect.

Some sports bring four people together; others focus on precision and body control, or give your next holiday a new purpose. We go beyond the names to show you how each one actually works.

01 / Learn the Game

From scoring and equipment to courts and essential rules.

02 / Discover the Culture

See how these activities fit into clubs, boutique studios and holidays.

03 / Give It a Try

What to book, what to bring and what to know before your first session.

SIX SPORTS / SIX STORIES

Choose a sport. Explore the whole story.

Each sport has its own in-depth feature. Select a card to discover how to play, what to practise and how to start.

01 / SOCIAL RACKET SPORT

Padel Padel

Four players, glass walls and a match that doubles as a social occasion.

Read the Full Feature →

02 / THE EASY-TO-START GAME

Pickleball Pickleball

A smaller court and shorter paddle, with surprisingly absorbing battles at the net.

Read the Full Feature →

03 / CLASSIC CLUB SPORT

Squash Squash

Inside four walls, speed, angles and split-second decisions take centre stage.

Read the Full Feature →

04 / NOT JUST FOR WOMEN

Reformer Pilates Reformer Pilates

Not just for women—and far more than stretching. A fresh perspective on body control.

Read the Full Feature →

05 / THE FITNESS RACE

HYROX Hybrid Fitness Racing

Running meets eight workout stations in a structured fitness challenge.

Read the Full Feature →

06 / THE COASTAL GAME

Beach Tennis Beach Tennis

Doubles on the sand, where sport, sunshine and seaside living meet.

Read the Full Feature →

FIND YOUR GAME

Six sports. How do they compare?

A general comparison for recreational beginners; actual intensity varies with experience and playing style.

Sport	Typical format	Social setting	What to learn first
Padel	Doubles	Four-player club matches	Reading glass-wall rebounds
Pickleball	Singles / doubles	Meet up with friends	Learn the kitchen rules
Squash	Singles	A training partner	Keep a safe distance
Reformer Pilates	Small group / private lesson	Boutique studio	Get familiar with the equipment
HYROX	Individual / doubles / relay	Race-training community	Build your fitness base
Beach Tennis	Doubles	Beachside players	Keep the ball off the ground

MORE THAN A GAME

The best new interests
start with a first experience.

You don't need top-of-the-range equipment or a complete grasp of the rules. Read about a sport you like, then try a beginner session that suits you.

Back to the Six Sports ↑

← Back to the Six Sports

01 / SOCIAL RACKET SPORT

Padel
Padel

Four players, glass walls and a match that doubles as a social occasion.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

Padel is already well established in Spain and parts of Europe, and has become a popular option at urban sports clubs. Unlike tennis, play doesn't stop at the bounce: a ball can rebound off the glass and change the whole rally.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Typical formatDoubles: 2 vs 2

Court20 × 10 metres

Getting startedEasy to begin; plenty to master

EquipmentSolid, stringless racket and dedicated ball

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Doubles is the standard format, and rebounds from glass walls add an extra layer of strategy.

Common misconception

Simple rules don't mean a simple sport. Reading the walls, anticipating shots, volleying and coordinating with your partner all take practice.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

Teamwork over solo play

Most recreational games involve four players, making positioning, communication and coordination an essential part of the fun.

Glass walls keep rallies alive

After the ball bounces and hits your back glass, you may still be able to return it—unlike in tennis.

A club is also a social space

Many players stay for coffee and conversation afterwards, though atmosphere and prices vary widely by venue.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

How do you serve?

Stand behind the service line, bounce the ball and strike it underhand at or below waist height, diagonally into the opposite service box.

Can you play off the glass?

Yes, subject to the bounce and rebound rules. A ball hit directly into your glass by an opponent without bouncing first is generally out.

How does scoring work?

Most matches follow tennis-style 15, 30, 40, games and sets; deuce and alternative formats depend on the event.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Find three other players

A four-person beginners' lesson can be easier than working out the rules on your own.

02

Learn the underhand serve

Start with diagonal serving, the first bounce and glass-wall rebounds.

03

Practise doubles positioning

Learn not to chase the same ball as your partner.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

People who like doubles, arranging regular games with friends and gradually developing racket and positioning skills.

What should you budget for?

Expect shared court hire, optional racket rental and lessons. Peak-hour slots can cost more than off-peak sessions, even in the same city.

Where is it popular?

Spain is a major established market; clubs are also expanding in Italy, France, the UK and elsewhere in Europe.

Safety and physical demands:A small court doesn't mean zero impact. Warm up for lateral movement, sudden stops and repeated arm swings.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Pickleball ↗Squash ↗Reformer Pilates ↗HYROX ↗Beach Tennis ↗

← Back to the Six Sports

02 / THE EASY-TO-START GAME

Pickleball
Pickleball

A smaller court and shorter paddle, with surprisingly absorbing battles at the net.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis on a smaller court. It's welcoming to beginners, but what keeps people interested is the social doubles format and fast tactical exchanges at the net.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Typical formatSingles / doubles

Court13.41 × 6.10 metres

Getting startedEasy to learn the basics

EquipmentPaddle and perforated plastic ball

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Unlike padel, there are no glass walls in play; the non-volley zone, or kitchen, is a defining feature.

Common misconception

It's misleading to call it only a gentle game for older adults. High-level matches are fast and tactically demanding.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

Rallies from your first session

The smaller court and distinctive ball speed can help many newcomers get rallies going quickly.

Doubles across generations

Friends, couples and players of different ages can team up, though the physical demands vary with match intensity.

Strategy lives at the net

Soft dinks and third-shot tactics are important at more advanced levels.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

What is the kitchen?

The non-volley zone extends about 2.13 metres from the net on each side. You cannot volley while standing in it or touching its boundary.

What is the two-bounce rule?

The receiver must let the serve bounce, and the serving team must let the return bounce, before either side may volley.

How do you score?

Traditional recreational games use side-out scoring, usually to 11 and win by two; some events use alternative formats.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Practise the serve

Begin with an underhand serve directed diagonally.

02

Remember the two bounces

Both the serve and the return must bounce before volleys are allowed.

03

Understand the kitchen

Positioning and volley restrictions shape play near the net.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

People who enjoy doubles with friends and want a game they can learn quickly, then develop over time.

What should you budget for?

Costs may include court access, paddle and balls. Some community clubs offer rentals, taster sessions or membership courts.

Where is it popular?

Participation is especially established in North America; clubs and events are also appearing in the UK and other European cities.

Safety and physical demands:Easy to start doesn't mean risk-free. Take care with quick turns, backward movement, footwear and court conditions.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Padel ↗Squash ↗Reformer Pilates ↗HYROX ↗Beach Tennis ↗

← Back to the Six Sports

03 / CLASSIC CLUB SPORT

Squash
Squash

Inside four walls, speed, angles and split-second decisions take centre stage.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

Squash isn't a new sport: it's a longstanding indoor club classic. Its appeal comes from fast, compact movement, precise angles and two players constantly adjusting each other's position in a shared court.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Typical formatMainly singles

CourtFour-walled indoor court

Getting startedCoaching recommended

EquipmentSquash racket, ball and protective eyewear

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Unlike padel, two squash players usually share the same court and play toward the same front wall.

Common misconception

It's not simply hitting a ball against a wall. Control, footwork and safety are essential.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

Play whatever the weather

An indoor court makes it easy to build sessions into your routine.

Fast-paced sessions

Even shorter games can be intense; the physical demands may be high.

A sport of subtle skills

Shot placement, cut, angles and recovering to the T are key to long-term improvement.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

How must you return the ball?

Hit it to the legal area of the front wall, either in the air or after one bounce. Your opponent must return it before the second bounce.

How do you score?

Competitive games typically use point-a-rally scoring to 11, winning by two points.

What if your opponent is in the way?

Safety comes first: never swing dangerously. Depending on the situation, a let or stroke may be awarded.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Put safety first

Learn when to stop, clear space and avoid dangerous swings before chasing difficult shots.

02

Choose a suitable ball

Beginners can choose a livelier ball instead of starting with an advanced tournament ball.

03

Return to the T

Practise moving back toward the centre after each shot.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

People who enjoy technical challenges, quick reactions and a more demanding racket sport.

What should you budget for?

Costs typically cover court time, racket, ball, eyewear and optional coaching.

Where is it popular?

The UK and several European countries have long-established participation in leisure centres, private clubs and universities.

Safety and physical demands:Rapid turns and sharing an enclosed court require care. Appropriate protective eyewear is strongly recommended.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Padel ↗Pickleball ↗Reformer Pilates ↗HYROX ↗Beach Tennis ↗

← Back to the Six Sports

04 / NOT JUST FOR WOMEN

Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates

Not just for women—and far more than stretching. A fresh perspective on body control.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

Reformer Pilates uses a sliding carriage, springs and straps to train controlled movement. The method was developed by Joseph Pilates, a man, and today people of different ages and genders include it in their fitness routines.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Typical formatPrivate sessions / boutique classes

Main equipmentSpring-resistance reformer

Getting startedAdjustable, but technique matters

FocusStability, control and mobility

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Unlike simple stretching, the reformer offers resistance or assistance through its springs; it is also different from traditional weight training.

Common misconception

The idea that Pilates is only for women is a misconception. The method was never intended for one gender alone.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

A challenge for men, too

Breathing, trunk stability, posture and resistance require attention regardless of gender.

More than flexibility

It also involves alignment, muscular endurance and coordination. Some sessions can be surprisingly demanding.

Complements other activities

It can support a routine that includes weight training, running or racket sports, without replacing those activities.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

Does it have competition rules?

It's a form of exercise, not a points-based competitive sport.

Do heavier springs always mean harder work?

Not necessarily. Depending on the movement, springs can also assist or support you.

Is it suitable for men?

Suitability depends on ability, health and how an instructor adapts the exercise—not gender.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Book a beginner class

Start with an introductory small-group or private session.

02

Learn the equipment

Understand the footbar, carriage, springs and straps before you begin.

03

Choose control over speed

Focus on sound movement rather than range or pace.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

Adults of any gender interested in movement control, different types of resistance training or variety in their fitness routine.

What should you budget for?

Fees are usually charged per group class or private session, with substantial differences by location and studio.

Where is it popular?

Boutique fitness studios across many European cities offer these classes; male participation varies by local market.

Safety and physical demands:Anyone with a recent injury, surgical history, pregnancy or chronic pain should ask about appropriate modifications. Don't assume the activity treats a medical condition.

MEN & PILATES

Let's clear up a myth: Pilates isn't just for women.

Its founder, Joseph Pilates, was male, and his method emphasises controlled strength, posture and coordination. Men may try the reformer for fitness, mobility, athletic training or simply to experience something different. That doesn't mean every man needs it—or that it replaces other exercise.

Not just flexibility

The springs and carriage provide resistance or support, and many movements demand focused strength and control.

Not about muscle size alone

Good movement quality involves alignment, coordination, breathing and precision.

Not an overnight transformation

Learning the equipment and building a routine takes time. Be wary of promises of instant results.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Padel ↗Pickleball ↗Squash ↗HYROX ↗Beach Tennis ↗

← Back to the Six Sports

05 / THE FITNESS RACE

HYROX
Hybrid Fitness Racing

Running meets eight workout stations in a structured fitness challenge.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

HYROX is a standardised indoor fitness race. Participants alternate running with functional workout stations. It suits people who enjoy measurable training goals, but is generally more demanding than a casual doubles game.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Race formatEight 1 km runs + eight stations

Entry typesIndividual / doubles / relay

Getting startedA fitness base is essential

Training elementsEndurance + strength + technique

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Unlike Reformer Pilates, which emphasises controlled movement, HYROX is a timed race combining running and functional fitness.

Common misconception

Regular gym workouts alone may not prepare you. Running endurance and transitions between stations need dedicated practice.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

Clear, measurable goals

A consistent race structure allows participants to compare performances and track progress.

A challenge to share

Doubles and relay formats give friends a goal to prepare for together.

Variety in training

Running, carrying, pushing, pulling and rowing make preparation more varied.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

How does the race work?

Competitors run 1 km before each functional workout station, for eight runs and eight stations in total.

What are the eight stations?

SkiErg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jumps, rowing, farmer's carry, sandbag lunges and wall balls.

Are the weights the same for everyone?

No. Loads depend on the category and division. Check the latest official event rules.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Build an aerobic base

Start with regular walking or running and increase distance gradually.

02

Learn the stations

Practise safe technique for sled work, rowing and loaded carries.

03

Choose your division carefully

Doubles and relays still require preparation and commitment.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

People with an established training routine who enjoy goals and are willing to prepare for endurance and strength demands.

What should you budget for?

Costs may include gym access, coaching, footwear and race entry. Travelling to events adds extra expense.

Where is it popular?

The event originated in Europe, with races and training communities in many European cities. Check current schedules locally.

Safety and physical demands:High-intensity racing is not something to attempt from scratch. Anyone with cardiovascular or joint concerns should seek appropriate guidance first.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Padel ↗Pickleball ↗Squash ↗Reformer Pilates ↗Beach Tennis ↗

← Back to the Six Sports

06 / THE COASTAL GAME

Beach Tennis
Beach Tennis

Doubles on the sand, where sport, sunshine and seaside living meet.

Discover How It Works ↓

THE SPORT EXPLAINED

What kind of sport is this?

Beach tennis blends solid paddles, tennis-style scoring and volleying on sand. Unlike conventional tennis, you cannot wait for the ball to bounce before returning it.

In a hurry? Start with these four essentials.

Typical formatMostly doubles

CourtSand court

Getting startedEasy to try; sand takes adjustment

Key skillsVolleying + partner coordination

WHY IT MATTERS

How is it different from sports you already know?

Unlike pickleball and padel, the defining differences are the sand surface and the no-bounce rule.

Common misconception

Playing on the beach isn't necessarily easier. Moving on sand and coping with heat can be demanding.

WHY PEOPLE PLAY

Why is it worth discovering?

Bring sport into your holiday

Seaside clubs and resort settings make it a natural part of outdoor recreation.

Every shot demands attention

The ball must be played before it bounces, rewarding concentration and partner coordination.

Sand adds a new challenge

The softer surface demands different movement, and even short rallies can be tiring.

HOW THE GAME WORKS

How to play: the essential rules

Answer these three questions and you'll be ready to follow your first match.

Can the ball bounce?

No. Beach tennis is played with volleys; a ball landing on your side loses the point.

How does scoring work?

Scoring is similar to tennis and often uses no-ad scoring; sets and other event rules vary.

Is it like beach volleyball?

No. It uses rackets and a tennis-style court, with different strokes and scoring.

This is an introductory guide; official competitions and venues may apply updated or more detailed rules.

YOUR FIRST SESSION

Your first session: where to begin

01

Learn the no-bounce rule

The biggest difference from ordinary tennis.

02

Practise controlled volleys

Aim for steady, accurate shots before powerful smashes.

03

Start on a smaller court

Get comfortable moving and positioning on sand before extending sessions.

THE PRACTICAL GUIDE

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

People who love beaches, doubles, holiday socialising and a new challenge moving on sand.

What should you budget for?

Seaside court hire, paddle rentals and lessons vary by destination and season; some clubs offer introductory experiences.

Where is it popular?

Clubs and competitions can be found in Italy, around the Mediterranean and in other beach destinations.

Safety and physical demands:Sand places different demands on calves and ankles. Check sun protection, hydration, surface temperature and foot safety.

KEEP EXPLORING

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

From different courts to different levels of intensity, find another activity you might enjoy.

Return to All Six Sports →

Padel ↗Pickleball ↗Squash ↗Reformer Pilates ↗HYROX ↗

A game can become a whole new way to connect.

01 / Learn the Game

02 / Discover the Culture

03 / Give It a Try

Choose a sport. Explore the whole story.

Padel Padel

Pickleball Pickleball

Squash Squash

Reformer Pilates Reformer Pilates

HYROX Hybrid Fitness Racing

Beach Tennis Beach Tennis

Six sports. How do they compare?

The best new interestsstart with a first experience.

What kind of sport is this?

How is it different from sports you already know?

Why is it worth discovering?

Teamwork over solo play

Glass walls keep rallies alive

A club is also a social space

How to play: the essential rules

Your first session: where to begin

Find three other players

Learn the underhand serve

Practise doubles positioning

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

What should you budget for?

Where is it popular?

Enjoyed this sport?There's more to explore.

What kind of sport is this?

How is it different from sports you already know?

Why is it worth discovering?

Rallies from your first session

Doubles across generations

Strategy lives at the net

How to play: the essential rules

Your first session: where to begin

Practise the serve

Remember the two bounces

Understand the kitchen

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

What should you budget for?

Where is it popular?

Enjoyed this sport?There's more to explore.

What kind of sport is this?

How is it different from sports you already know?

Why is it worth discovering?

Play whatever the weather

Fast-paced sessions

A sport of subtle skills

How to play: the essential rules

Your first session: where to begin

Put safety first

Choose a suitable ball

Return to the T

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

What should you budget for?

Where is it popular?

Enjoyed this sport?There's more to explore.

What kind of sport is this?

How is it different from sports you already know?

Why is it worth discovering?

A challenge for men, too

More than flexibility

Complements other activities

How to play: the essential rules

Your first session: where to begin

Book a beginner class

Learn the equipment

Choose control over speed

What else should you know before starting?

Who might enjoy it?

What should you budget for?

Where is it popular?

Let's clear up a myth: Pilates isn't just for women.

Not just flexibility

Not about muscle size alone

Not an overnight transformation

The best new interests
start with a first experience.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.

Enjoyed this sport?
There's more to explore.