Okay I know what you're thinking. "Pickleball is for old people, how much exercise can it really be?". Sure, it's true that the sport was popular mostly among older people even just a few years ago, however times are changing. According to a SFIA research report, the age of pickleball players has decreased in recent years, with the average age in 2021 being 38.1 years (a drop of 2.9 years from 2020's average age of 41.0). Furthermore, the sport has seen its fastest growth among players under 24 years old, with a 21% increase in 2021. All that being said, this sport is no longer just a sport thats popular among older people and if you go out and play you'll see why! Soon you'll be dinking, smashing, and running all over the courts and closing those rings.
Cardio Workout
One of the main health benefits of pickleball is that it provides a great cardio workout. The constant movement and quick reactions required to hit the ball back and forth across the net can elevate the heart rate and provide a cardiovascular challenge. According to the American Heart Association, moderate-intensity cardio activities like pickleball can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve overall physical fitness. In addition, regular cardio exercise has been linked to a number of other health benefits, including improved blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar control.
Low Impact on the Body
One of the great things about pickleball is that it is a low-impact activity, which means it is easier on the body than high-impact sports like running or basketball. This makes it a good option for people who may have injuries or joint issues, or for those who are looking for a gentler form of exercise. In addition, the slower pace of the game and the use of paddles can help reduce the risk of hand and wrist injuries that are common in racket sports like tennis.
Full Body Workout
Pickleball is a full-body workout that requires the use of many different muscle groups. The legs and core are used to move around the court and maintain balance, while the arms and shoulders are used to hit the ball. This means that pickleball can help improve muscle strength and tone throughout the body. In addition, pickleball can help improve hand-eye coordination and balance, which can have benefits for other physical activities as well.
Mental Health Benefits
Playing pickleball can also have positive effects on mental health. The social aspect of the game can help improve mood and reduce stress, as it provides an opportunity to connect with others and engage in enjoyable activity. In addition, the physical activity involved in pickleball can help boost energy levels and improve overall wellbeing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity has been linked to improved mental health and a reduced risk of depression and anxiety.
Conclusion
Here at Court, we personally know how great of a workout Pickleball can be, and it's one of the many reasons why we are so passionate about creating fun paddles that encourage you to go play more pickleball. Whether you're looking to improve your cardio fitness, get a full body workout, or boost your mental health, pickleball can help with it all. So grab your Court paddle and hit the courts – you'll be having fun and improving your health at the same time!
