BENEFITS OF PICKLEBALL
According to the U.S.A. Pickleball Association, there are currently 4.8 million players across the country. As more people discover the game and play pickleball for themselves, these players have also been able to improve their health and social lives with every game. You too can discover the many benefits of upping your pickleball game! Keep reading to learn the seven ways pickleball can improve your life.
Having more than 4.8 million participants nationwide, and a growth of 39.3% over the last two years, pickleball was officially announced as the fastest-growing sport in America for the second year in a row, according to The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) 2022 Sports, Fitness, and Leisure Activites Topline Participation Report that was just released.
Pickleball can boost your mood and help you avoid depression. This type of moderate exercise can help participants' blood pressure levels by getting their hearts pounding. Physical activity can help us feel better by releasing feel-good endorphins and distracting us from our anxieties. Social interaction can also be improved by participating in a group sport. We can improve our spirits and mental health by exchanging smiles with a teammate. Participating in a pickleball game can boost your confidence in addition to the social benefits of sports. As you get in shape, you’ll feel better about your appearance, which can improve your mental health, too!
While pickleball does not need any substantial running, it does provide some aerobic exercise. Pickleball is an excellent alternative to more rigorous physical activities for older people who still wish to receive some moderate exercise. Ping-pong, tennis, and badminton are all combined in this game, which requires participants to walk around a small court. This encourages players to get up and walk about while playing pickleball, burning calories in the process.
A lively game of pickleball can also help you improve your balance. Even as we age, regular movement, such as the cardiovascular exertion required by pickleball, can help us maintain our balance. As more players improve their pickleball skills, their stamina, footwork, and control will improve as well.
A pickleball game is much easier on aging bodies than a tennis game because the pickleball moves at a much slower speed than a tennis ball. This allows players to tone their muscles while also improving their agility.
According to NPR, pickleball is also a fantastic sport for people who have had previous injuries. Instead of jeopardizing your health, you may burn 40 percent more calories than walking while avoiding additional discomfort.
Pickleball is a social sport as well. Learning how to play pickleball can place you on the court with other eager players, whether you play singles or doubles. You'll be building social connections as you play, which will benefit your mental health too.
Finally, pickleball is a fun recreational sport that might help you get out of your regular routine. Get out there and enjoy yourself. It's not about winning, but rather about having a good time with the other players.