Most of us know exercise is good for us—the problem is just all the things that prevent us from getting the exercise we need. The time commitment. The boredom factor. The way exercise just seems harder and harder as our bodies age. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic reports that after age 50, more than 70 percent of people fail to get enough exercise.
Maybe this is why pickleball has exploded in popularity over the past few years. It’s an all-ages sport offering physical and social benefits that are especially important for seniors. Pickleball is similar to tennis, but it’s played on a slightly smaller court with a paddle and lightweight plastic ball instead of a racquet and heavy rubber ball. A round of pickleball is often slower paced and less physically demanding, so it’s easier for beginners or casual players to participate.
But just because pickleball is not as intense doesn’t mean it’s not physically fulfilling. Here are four reasons to pick up a paddle:
1. It’s good cardio. An aerobic workout doesn’t have to have you wheezing to be good for you. Just 150 minutes of moderate-intense activity—that is, enough to raise your heart rate and break a light sweat—is sufficient. So, if you play for an hour just three days a week, you’ll exceed your cardio needs! Aerobic activity improves circulation, staves off heart disease and stroke, and aids in weight management.
2. You’ll retain muscle and bone strength. We naturally lose muscle and bone strength as we get older, setting our bodies up for easy injuries. But pickleball gets you moving around on your feet, bearing your own weight as you move from side to side, forward, and backward. You’ll be running, leaping, squatting, and swinging your arms. These movements are good for strengthening your legs, core, and even your arms. This will also help with your coordination and balance, which are crucial for staying injury-free in old age.
3. You give your brain a workout. A lot of pickleball is strategy. You always have to think about what your opponent is going to do next and prepare to respond to it quickly. You’ll find the strategic part of pickleball keeps your mind sharp and your instincts responsive. Practicing your shots can also improve your hand-eye coordination. Many seniors who engage in mental challenges on a regular basis find that it delays cognitive decline.
4. It’s social. Finally, pickleball is the type of workout that you do with other people—it’s a great excuse to get out of the house and engage with others. This boosts your mood, reduces feelings of isolation, and improves your overall wellbeing.
