The Incredible Health Advantages of the Rapidly Growing Sport in the United States

Imagine being on a court, serving with a playful “pickle” and rallying with teammates, sharing laughter and bonding over every shot. This sport sounds simple, enjoyable, and social, doesn't it? But what if I told you that this sport could also have unexpected health benefits? Welcome to the world of pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in America. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is captivating the nation, and its health advantages might just surprise you. But what sets it apart?

Overview

Pickleball enhances cardiorespiratory fitness, leading to improved cholesterol and blood pressure levels, particularly beneficial for older adults.
Playing doubles pickleball elevates heart rates, burns more calories, and significantly increases enjoyment compared to walking.
Research indicates that pickleball boosts cognitive function, muscle coordination, and reduces pain in older adults, promoting successful aging.

Why This Social Sport Is Helping Seniors Stay Fit and Healthy

Have you ever seen someone try a falafel with a straight face or make a poach in the kitchen?

If you're familiar with these references, you might be one of the five million players of America's rapidly growing pickleball sport. Embraced by individuals of all ages, pickleball is fun, inclusive—it can even be played in a wheelchair—and is particularly favored by older individuals.

Furthermore, it offers a plethora of health benefits.

Pickleball originated in the U.S. in 1965 and has gradually gained popularity. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played by two or four players (known as picklers) on a compact court. The game utilizes shorter, lighter solid-faced paddles and a plastic ball with holes, offering less bounce and slower flight. Serves are underhand, making them easier to execute and return, with ample breaks for catching your breath during play.

Given its sociable and entertaining nature, along with its advantages over more strenuous traditional sports, it's no wonder that pickleball is a hit among seniors.

And the health benefits are plentiful.

Improves Cardiorespiratory Fitness

A study by Western State Colorado University involving fifteen participants aged 40 to 85 who engaged in four 15-minute doubles sessions every other day for six weeks revealed positive changes in cholesterol, blood pressure, and maximal oxygen uptake.

The researchers concluded that pickleball enhances cardiorespiratory fitness and is an excellent alternative physical activity for middle-aged and older adults.

Another study compared the doubles version of pickleball to walking, showing that pickleball raised average heart rates by almost 14%, peak heart rates by nearly 19%, burned 36% more calories, increased perceived exertion by 44%, and enjoyment levels by 150%. Researchers suggested that playing pickleball could be a suitable way to enhance and maintain physical fitness.

“Contribute[s] to Successful Aging”

In a separate study involving 153 picklers aged 50 and above, participants reported an enhancement in their well-being. Researchers believe that the sport could significantly benefit older adults and contribute to successful aging.

Utah State University conducted a third study with 20 inactive participants aged 50 to 75 from three rural Utah counties. These participants played pickleball in pairs for one hour, three times a week for six weeks, with the following outcomes:

Better brain health and cognitive function: Participants experienced a notable increase in cognitive function, including improvements in memory, attention, verbal function, and information processing speed.
Enhanced muscle function: Players showed significant improvement in muscle coordination, with an impressive 11% increase in vertical jump height among participants.
Reduced pain and discomfort: Participants reported a slight but significant decrease in self-reported pain levels.

Fun, Easy-to-Learn

Post-study interviews revealed that participants found pickleball enjoyable, easy to learn, and engaging, irrespective of their fitness levels. Playing the sport improved their overall well-being and made daily tasks seem less challenging. Participants expressed that pickleball was social, enjoyable, and something they wanted to continue with.

Researchers noted, “Overall, pickleball appears to be a promising intervention to (1) elicit functional- and cognitive-related improvements, and (2) motivate mid-life and older adults to adhere to exercise sufficiently long to benefit their health.”

So, whether you're interested in a dillball or flabjack, or perhaps calling out OPA while avoiding a volley llama, it's time to get involved. With over 38,000 indoor and outdoor courts in the U.S., you can find one in your area by visiting USA Pickleball.

Summary

Pickleball, a sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is not only enjoyable and social but also offers significant health benefits. Research shows that it enhances cardiorespiratory fitness, cognitive function, and muscle coordination. Particularly popular among older adults, pickleball proves to be an accessible and enjoyable way to stay active, contributing to successful aging. Whether you're aiming to maintain fitness or enjoy social time with friends, pickleball could be the ideal sport for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age group benefits the most from pickleball?

Pickleball is popular among all age groups, especially seniors, as it is a low-impact and highly social sport.

How does pickleball improve heart health?

Playing pickleball increases heart rate and burns more calories than walking, helping improve cardiovascular fitness.

Is pickleball easy to learn?

Yes! It’s designed to be easy to pick up and enjoyable for players of all fitness levels, even beginners.

Can pickleball help with cognitive function?

Studies show pickleball can improve memory, attention, and information processing, particularly in older adults.

How often should I play pickleball to see health benefits?

Playing two to three times a week, as shown in studies, provides significant health improvements, including better muscle function and reduced pain.

Written by: Susan Parker

Susan Parker is a 49-year-old Senior Manager at a marketing firm. With two older children becoming more independent, she is now focusing on her own health and wellbeing. She’s passionate about natural and holistic health approaches, and values high-quality, trustworthy products. Susan enjoys yoga, gardening, reading, and cooking, and seeks to stay energetic and sharp while balancing a busy career and personal life.