By Dr. David Bokermann, PT, DPT, C-PS
Over the past six weeks, I have found myself utterly captivated by the game of pickleball. My wife and co-workers can certainly attest to the fact that my thoughts, conversations, and energy have been overwhelmingly focused on my new hobby. My previous experience with pickleball was limited to high school gym class, where I remember enjoying the game but hadn’t thought much about it since. However, in the past six months, several of my patients began raving about it as a form of exercise, sparking my curiosity. The competitive spirit and wide range of skill levels in pickleball drew me in, and I was intrigued by the sport’s fast-growing popularity.
The catalyst for my renewed interest was a winter break table tennis marathon with my wife. As we played, I began noticing an increasing number of pickleball videos popping up on social media, particularly highlighting how the sport is being used in sports therapy for its benefits to cognitive function and flexibility. I decided to invest in a paddle, took a week-long class, and now I’m actively pursuing private lessons. I’m thrilled to share my journey with you, but first, let’s explore what pickleball is and why it has become America’s fastest-growing sport for people of all ages and abilities. This form of exercise offers numerous physical health benefits and is an activity for populations looking to improve their life satisfaction.
Pickleball has been America’s fastest-growing sport for the third consecutive year. Its popularity is surging, with more people playing, stores stocking equipment, and athletes and celebrities endorsing the sport. There are an estimated 48.3 million pickleball players in the United States, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) in 2023. This blog will be the first of several blogs that will dive into the fundamentals of pickleball, including its cardiovascular benefits and how it compares to other competitive sports in terms of physical health and mental health benefits.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a dynamic sport that merges elements from tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s played on a court with a net, a wiffle ball, and two hard plastic paddles. Whether indoors or outdoors, it requires minimal space and setup, using plastic balls for play. The game’s low-impact nature makes it accessible and enjoyable for players of all skill levels, and it’s a perfect aerobic exercise for those looking to combat sedentary lifestyles and boost their pickleball benefits.
Why is it called pickleball?
The name “pickleball” has an interesting origin. The sport was invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum on Bainbridge Island, Washington, drawing inspiration from other racquet sports. According to the official story, the name was derived from the Pritchard family’s dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball and sometimes run off with it. Although some claim the name “pickleball” was inspired by the term “pickle boat” from rowing, which refers to a crew made up of leftover oarsmen, the dog story is the most widely accepted explanation. This playful name reflects the sport’s application in people of all backgrounds and its role in fostering a sense of pickleball community.
Let’s Explore Some of the Many Benefits of Playing Pickleball
Discover the numerous health advantages of playing pickleball. From boosting cardiorespiratory fitness to enhancing mental well-being, this sport offers surprising benefits for players of all ages. The benefits of pickleball practice extend to aerobic exercise and physical health, making it a comprehensive option for improving overall well-being. It is an ideal activity for populations seeking to break free from sedentary lifestyles and engage in regular exercise.
1. Low Threshold for Entry
One of the pickleball’s most appealing aspects is its accessibility. Nearly anyone can start playing with just a paddle and a basic understanding of the basics of pickleball. For instance, during an open play session at a local recreation center, I met a seasoned player who brought along an old college buddy who had never played before. Despite his inexperience, he quickly joined a competitive game with more seasoned players. The simplicity of pickleball means you don’t need extensive training or special skills to enjoy the game. My advice? Just give it a try!
2. Pickleball is Great for Agility and Flexibility
The sport demands a range of movements: moving forward and back, side to side, crossing legs, and turning quickly. As a physical therapist, I’m particularly fond of pickleball for its ability to enhance agility, flexibility, and brain function. The game’s slower ball speed compared to other racket sports like tennis means you still need to move efficiently, which can significantly improve balance and coordination. It’s an enjoyable way to boost your physical dexterity while having fun.
3. Improves Heart Health and Cardiovascular Stamina
Pickleball is an excellent way to get your heart pumping. Singles play is more intense and can lead to greater fatigue than doubles play, but both forms are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Regular participation in pickleball has been shown to elevate heart rates above resting levels, which can decrease the risk of heart attacks and strokes while improving cholesterol levels. In fact, at RecoverRx Physical Therapy, we often recommend pickleball as a fun and effective way to stay active and improve heart health. A recent study by Apple, published in October, analyzed over 250,000 pickleball and tennis workouts tracked via Apple Watch technology. Researchers found that playing pickleball helped players reach moderate to vigorous heart rate zones linked to improved cardiac fitness and heart health.
4. Promotes Socialization and Positive Mental Well-being
Pickleball is as much a social activity as it is a physical one. I’ve found that playing pickleball significantly enhances my mood and productivity at work. The game often involves recreational leagues or open play sessions where players rotate in and out of games. This structure encourages interaction with others, fostering new friendships and conversations. The communal aspect of pickleball fosters social interaction, creating a positive environment that contributes to the health benefits of pickleball and overall mental well-being.
5. Lowers Stress and Anxiety Levels
Regular exercise and community engagement are both known to improve mental health. Physical activity releases endorphins, which elevate mood and reduce feelings of stress. Being part of a community, such as a pickleball group, helps to create a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of loneliness or anxiety. My own experience supports this—playing pickleball before work or during lunch breaks has become a great way to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook.
Conclusion
There are countless other benefits to playing pickleball, from its potential to improve physical benefits like fitness to its role in enhancing social connections and mental health. If you’re at all curious about this sport, consider taking a beginner class at your local recreation center, YMCA, or tennis club. For those already playing, I’d love to hear what you enjoy most about pickleball. If you’re looking to get started, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help guide you on your pickleball journey.
FAQ’s
How can pickleball benefit your health?
Pickleball offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced agility, range of motion, and reduced stress levels. It’s a low-impact sport that’s accessible to people of all fitness levels, making it an excellent choice for maintaining overall well-being.
Is it okay to play pickleball every day?
Playing pickleball daily can be beneficial if you listen to your body and ensure you’re not overexerting yourself. It’s important to incorporate rest and recovery into your routine to avoid potential injuries, such as tennis elbow and burnout. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your physical activity levels.
What are the psychological benefits of pickleball?
Pickleball can enhance psychological well-being by reducing stress, boosting mood, and fostering social connections. The sport’s social nature and physical activity contribute to improved psychological health and a stronger sense of community.
