Pickleball, a sport invented in 1965, offers a fun and beginner-friendly experience. With its slower pace and smaller court, it’s less strenuous than tennis but more dynamic than ping pong. But did you know that pickleball also offers numerous physical and mental health benefits?
We consulted a psychologist and physician to reveal the surprising advantages of pickleball. Plus, they shared valuable tips for new players to maximize their experience in the fastest-growing sport in America!
Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Pickleball
Pickleball offers a unique blend of mental and physical benefits. According to Catherine Nobile, PsyD, playing pickleball can provide substantial mental health advantages that individualized fitness plans often lack. Additionally, enjoying a sport like pickleball typically leads to higher intrinsic motivation, making you eagerly anticipate playing, stay actively involved, and derive satisfaction from participating.
Moreover, pickleball offers additional advantages, including a fun and social environment where you can meet new people and build relationships, cognitive improvement through strategy and problem-solving, and a low-impact, stress-relieving activity. Overall, pickleball is a great way to improve your mental and physical well-being.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Pickleball is a cardiovascular activity that offers significant benefits for your heart health, surpassing even basic exercises like walking. A study published in the journal Science & Sports reveals that a 30-minute game of pickleball:
- Increases heart rate by 14% more than walking
- Burns 36% more calories than walking
- Is enjoyed 150% more than walking!
This combination of increased physical demand and enjoyment can lead to improved cardiovascular health, making pickleball a fun and effective way to boost your heart’s well-being.
Improves Respiratory Fitness
Pickleball is a fun and accessible way to challenge yourself and improve your health, regardless of your age or fitness level. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that inactive, older adults showed a high level of enthusiasm and participation in pickleball.
After just six weeks of playing, participants experienced significant improvements in their respiratory health, including better breathing capacity and fewer respiratory symptoms. This study demonstrates that pickleball is a great way to get active, improve your health, and have fun, even if you’re new to exercise or haven’t been active in a while. So, grab a paddle and get ready to reap the benefits of pickleball!
Helps With Proprioception and Coordination
According to Nerurkar, pickleball offers a range of exercise benefits similar to other racquet sports, including cardio, agility, balance, and coordination. As we age, maintaining balance and coordination becomes increasingly important, and pickleball can help with proprioception (spatial orientation and awareness).
But that’s not all – pickleball also requires mental engagement, strategy, quick decision-making, and coordination, which can enhance cognitive abilities and keep the mind sharp, explains Nobile. This dynamic mind-body connection can help maintain overall agility, making pickleball a holistic exercise for both physical and mental well-being.
Increases Cognitive Flexibility
Pickleball offers a surprising benefit – improved mental flexibility and adaptability. According to Nobile, the sport’s fast-paced nature and ever-changing dynamics require quick decision-making, swift strategy adjustments, and adaptability to opponents’ actions and teamwork nuances. This demands cognitive flexibility, enhancing mental agility and resilience. Playing pickleball sharpens cognitive abilities like problem-solving, pattern recognition, and effective decision-making under pressure.
These benefits extend beyond the court, improving cognitive health and translating to increased resilience in handling life’s challenges. As you continue to play, your stress resilience will improve, preparing you to face life’s challenges with greater ease. By playing pickleball, you’ll develop a stronger, more adaptable mind that serves you well both on and off the court.
Refines Social Skills
Pickleball offers more than just physical and mental benefits – it also provides a unique opportunity to connect with others and build a sense of community. As Nobile points out, the game requires interaction with teammates and opponents, communication during play, and post-game discussions. These social interactions can significantly improve social skills, foster a sense of belonging, and enhance mental health.
By playing pickleball, you’ll not only improve your physical and cognitive abilities but also expand your social network and develop meaningful relationships with fellow players. The social aspect of pickleball is a vital part of the game’s overall benefits, making it an excellent activity for those seeking a holistic approach to well-being.
Tips to Get Started on Your Pickleball Journey
You can’t just head to your backyard and play pickleball without a little foresight. To get started, you could either build your court or, better yet, join a local group. Before you do that, though, health experts share a few tips you should know.
Consult Your Doctor and Warm Up
Before starting your pickleball journey, remember to check with your doctor first, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions. Before playing, warm up to prevent injuries, especially if you’re new to exercise or pickleball.
Join a Local Club and Challenge Yourself
Joining a local pickleball club is a great way to meet new people and find a supportive community. As you progress, challenge yourself by playing in tournaments to improve your skills and expand your social circle.
Try Doubles and Stay Safe
Try doubles for a fun and social way to improve your teamwork and communication skills. Remember to stay safe on the court by watching your footing, staying hydrated, and taking breaks. Don’t forget to wear SPF and sun protection when playing outside.
Find Your Pickleball Community
Most importantly, make the most of your pickleball experience by finding a community that suits your values and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a social and fun way to stay active or a competitive outlet, pickleball has something for everyone. So, grab a paddle and get ready to enjoy the many benefits of pickleball!