Like tennis, pickleball is played both indoors and outdoors. Developed in 1965, this paddle sport is dubbed America's fastest-growing sport and best for all ages. So, it wouldn't be surprising to know that more than 8.9 million people have played pickleball across the US in 2022. But what is it all about that people are enjoying it? Aside from the fun, how can it help improve your health, physically and mentally?
Generally, pickleball requires fast movements and mental alertness. It also requires agility, quick reflexes, and precise movements. As a player, you have to hit the ball accurately and should be able to change direction constantly. Surprisingly, this sport is for anyone who wants to stay healthy. So, without further ado, here are the top 8 health benefits of playing pickleball.
#1 It's good for the heart
One of the primary health benefits of pickleball is its ability to enhance cardiovascular fitness. Every game involves constant movement, requiring players to cover the pickleball court quickly and maintain a brisk pace. Since these aerobic movements increase blood circulation, they help improve heart health and overall cardiovascular endurance.
#2 It helps you lose weight
The number of calories you can burn from pickleball depends on age, weight, gender, game length, and physical intensity. According to Lauren Chervinski of Racket Royalty, she burned 644 calories after playing pickleball for two hours. This figure equates to 322 calories per hour or 5.4 calories per minute. So yes, pickleball can help you lose weight.
#3 It improves balance and coordination
Pickleball enhances your body's ability to sense where it is in space, allowing you to move in all directions as fast as possible. Therefore, regular pickleball playing can help improve your balance and coordination. This ability to maintain stability and prevent falls is essential for our daily activities and becomes more crucial as we grow older.
#4 It enhances flexibility and range of motion
Aside from moving in various directions, pickleball also requires stretching your reach and acquiring a wide range of motion during shots. Since pickleball is not a very fast sport, it enhances flexibility with a reduced risk of injuries related to stiffness or restricted mobility. It also improves muscle and bone strength and helps prevent osteoporosis.
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#5 It's gentle on the joints
Compared to high-impact sports like tennis and volleyball, pickleball does not require you to run or jump high. Believe it or not, you can fit up to four pickleball courts in a tennis court. Pickleball paddles are also much lighter than tennis rackets. In effect, pickleball is gentle on your joints, so you don't have to worry about hurting your body.
#6 It boosts cognitive function
Pickleball is not just a physical workout; it also provides mental stimulation. The game's strategic nature requires you to anticipate your opponent's next moves, make split-second decisions, and communicate with your partner in doubles. Aside from these challenging brain exercises, understanding the rules for playing and scoring also helps you improve your memory.
You cannot learn to pickleball by simply watching tutorial videos online. You have to watch a pickleball match in person and meet some experienced players and coaches who can teach you more. So, whether you're playing singles or doubles, the sport allows you to meet different people and make new friends. With that, pickleball can surely improve your social being.
#8 It gives a sense of accomplishment
Pickleball is easy to play, so some people think it is slow and sounds boring. But once you start learning to hit the ball correctly, you will realize that this is actually fun. In fact, it offers some learning curve, and you need to focus and be physically and mentally fit. Once you master some pickleball strategies, you will want to learn more and consider it a great accomplishment.
Related Post: 16 Surprising Benefits of Pickleball to Kids and Teens
Final Thoughts
As you can see, all the benefits of pickleball mentioned above are for everyone, regardless of age. Once you include it as part of your hobby, you will feel an improvement in your mind and body. But don't take my word for it. Go, get a pickleball paddle, and visit the nearest court. You don't have to win a match yet, though. Start learning the rules and practice them with players in a public court. They will be eager to help you.
