Pickleball has become a very popular sport in people of all age groups. While you may think of it as an ordinary sport, did you know that pickleball is actually very beneficial for your health?
Pickleball is a popular sport because it is fun to play and easy to learn. But another thing that makes it popular among people especially the elderly is the health benefits. It is a great workout for people of all ages and this is exactly what we will be discussing here.
This article will explore the health benefits of this fun sport. We will discuss how playing pickleball can be beneficial for your physical, social and mental well being.
So let’s get started!
How Can Pickleball Improve Physical Health?
Now let’s move on to discussing pickleball exercise benefits. Many people just like playing pickleball for the sake of fun whereas others like to seek some health benefits from this sport. Here we are going to discuss the top 5 health benefits of pickleball in detail. Let’s get started!
A Great Cardio Workout:
What if someone tells you that one game of pickleball will help you burn upto 600 calories? Yes you heard that right. 600 calories! And how is that even possible? Well pickleball is considered a great way to burn some extra calories. It is considered a great cardio workout. Additionally, playing pickleball can also improve lung function which means you can get rid of many breathing problems.
Moreover, if you face trouble trying to control your blood sugar levels, pickleball can help you do that. This way, you can also prevent diabetes. One other benefit of playing pickleball is its ability to lower down your blood pressure. And lastly, you can improve the blood circulation in your body.
Improved Strength and Endurance:
Playing pickleball isn’t easy, you need to use several muscle groups in your arms, legs and core, all at once, to execute a shot. It doesn’t matter if you are serving, volleying, or moving around the court, you definitely need to use your muscles constantly.
Our bodies become stronger and more used to harsh plays with consistent practice and exercise. Pickleball is one such sport where you have to move constantly. This will help you build strength and will not only make your daily activities less challenging but also minimize the chances of getting hurt. So the benefit of playing continuously is that your muscle grows and endurance improves. This leads to a healthier and more active lifestyle.
Prevents Joint Diseases:
Although pickleball is similar to tennis and badminton in several ways, you will also find some marked differences between the two. Tennis and badminton are high impact sports and so you need to put too much stress on your joints. On the other hand, pickleball puts less stress on your joints while still providing a great workout for your joints.
The sport is played on a smaller court with a lightweight paddle and a plastic ball which means less strain on your knees, hips, and ankles. This makes pickleball an ideal option for individuals looking to stay active while minimizing joint pain and discomfort. Additionally, with this minimal exercise you can also prevent bone disease such as osteoporosis where the bones become porous because of increasing age. This proves why pickleball is the best exercise for the elderly.
Improving Balance and Coordination:
Pickleball requires good and precise hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and good balance. You are doing so much all at once when hitting a pickleball. You are constantly adjusting your position, timing your shots, reacting to your opponents shots and also deciding what next shot you are supposed to execute.
Managing all such things at once helps improve proprioception (awareness of your body’s position in space). This can lead to better balance and coordination both on and off the court. Enhanced balance and coordination can reduce the risk of falls and injuries especially as you age.
5. Social and Mental Well-being:
How does pickleball help mental health? Well you must know that in addition to providing a number of physical health benefits, pickleball is also good for your mental health as well as social well being. Playing regularly can boost your mood, reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness and well-being.
Wondering what are the social benefits of pickleball? Pickleball is sometimes played in doubles. This means you need to have a partner, which means you get ample opportunities for social interaction, teamwork, and companionship. Building connections with fellow players can enhance your sense of belonging and support contributing to a healthier overall lifestyle.
FAQs
Why is pickleball a great sport?
Pickleball is great because it is easy to learn, super fun to play with friends and get you moving and active! Plus, it’s perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Does pickleball help build muscles?
Yes, pickleball can help build muscles, especially in your arms, legs, and core. You are constantly moving and swinging the paddle which can help you burn some calories while building muscles.
How does pickleball help mental health?
Playing pickleball can boost your mood by releasing feel-good hormones, reducing stress and giving you a chance to socialize and have fun. It is like a mini-vacation for your mind!
Is it okay to play pickleball every day?
Sure thing! As long as you listen to your body and take breaks if needed playing pickleball every day can be a great way to stay active and enjoy the game. Just remember to have some rest days to keep yourself fresh and energized.
Are there any disadvantages of pickleball in terms of health?
Sometimes if you play too much without warming up, you might get hurt. It is important to take care of yourself and play smart to avoid any injuries.
Bottom Line
In short, pickleball isn’t just a game, it is actually a fun way to improve your health and well being. If you incorporate pickleball into your daily or weekly routine, you can enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits that come with this dynamic and enjoyable sport. Whether you want to improve your heart health, or you wish to make your bones stronger, pickleball can help you with everything.
