Did you know pickleball beats out walking as an effective cardio exercise?
Olga Nikiforova/Getty Images
Pickleball is a relatively new sport (invented in 1965) that is beginner-friendly and fun.
Its not as strenuous as tennis but involves more movement than ping pong.
Photo:Olga Nikiforova/Getty Images
With its slower pace and smaller court, is pickleball actually good for you?
What Is Pickleball and How Do You Play?
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing recreational sports in the US, and for good reason.
It’s enjoyable, energizing, and social, says Aditi Nerurkar, MD.
Officials claim the rules are straightforward and can be learned in a single session.
Players must let the ball bounce once on each side before they can volley in the volley zone.
(There is a non-volley zone called the kitchen closer to the net.)
Unlike tennis, only the serving team scores points.
Games are played to 11 points, with the winning team winning by two.
Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Pickleball
So what sets pickleball apart, exactly?
As far as the physical benefits, pickleball has an edge, too.
Heres what else you might look forward to when you start playing.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Like any cardiovascular activity, pickleball is good for your heart.
This greater enjoyment and increased demand can lead to improved cardiovascular health.
As expected, they experienced better breathing capacity and fewer respiratory symptoms.
Nerurkar says pickleball can help with proprioception toowhich is a medical term for spatial orientation and awareness.
A strong mind-body connection can help maintain your overall agility.
According to Nobile, playing pickleball helps you develop cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
Nobile explains that this constant requirement for flexibility and adaptability can also enhance mental agility and resilience.
All these benefits generalize beyond the court and improve your cognitive health.
As you continue to play, yourresilience to stressshould improve.
Refines Social Skills
Additionally, there is a social aspect of pickleball that should not be overlooked.
These moments can significantly improve social skills and a sense of community, which are crucial for mental health.
Before you do that, though, health experts share a few tips you should know.
But this risk can be minimized with the right precautions.
Nerurkar agrees that this is the best and most sustainable way to stay active.
If you join a pickleball league or neighborhood group, you’ll be able to fulfill both!
Try Doubles
Singles might be easier than doubles, but doubles could offer more health benefits overall.
According to Nobile, playing doubles promotes teamwork and communication, enhancing social interaction both during and after games.
Whether or not pickleball can greatly improve your fitness depends on what you enjoy doing and your values.
For example, if someone values beating a personal record,runningalone may be best, says Nobile.
In contrast, for people who value community and innovative thinking, team sports are a better fit.
Pickleball Annual Growth Report.USA Pickleball.
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2021;18(16):8374. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168374
