Pickleball has been growing in popularity over the years. It’s a fun and easy sport to play that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Aside from the fun and social aspects of the game, pickleball also offers an array of health benefits that can help improve your overall well-being. Her are the top three health benefits of playing, and why it’s a great sport for any age. For those who are not familiar with the game, here are the basics from the USA Pickleball:
- A fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong.
- Can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.
- Played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net.
- Uses a paddle and a plastic ball with holes.
- Can be played as doubles or singles.
1. Cardiovascular Health
Pickleball can help improve your cardiovascular health by increasing your heart rate and improving your circulation. The constant movement and quick and repetitive motions during the game help to get your blood flowing. This not only helps you maintain a healthy weight, but it also helps lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Playing a 30 minute game of pickleball can contribute to the CDC-recommended physical activity for adults aged 65 and older. The CDC recommends engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, including moderate-intensity aerobic activity. This can be achieved through 30 minutes of exercise a day, 5 days a week.
2. Balance and Coordination
It is a fantastic sport that not only requires quick reflexes, balance, coordination, and hand-eye coordination, but it can also help improve these key motor skills, which often deteriorate as we age. You’ll not only maintain but also improve your balance, reducing the risk of falling, which is especially important for seniors. Moreover, playing pickleball can improve your hand-eye coordination, which can translate into better reflexes in everyday activities such as driving.
3. Mental Health
Pickleball can be a great mood booster, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It’s a fun way to stay active and socialize with friends and family, leading to a happier and healthier lifestyle. Trying out a new hobby can also be exciting and help you learn new strategies, tactics, and techniques to enhance your gameplay. The social aspect of the game is a big part of what makes it so enjoyable, and the camaraderie with other players is great for mental health. Additionally, the game requires focus, quick reactions, and strategic thinking, giving players a sense of accomplishment and reducing stress.