3 Reasons You Should Play Pickleball
The world of leisure sports has a new king: pickleball. Seniors benefit from it physically, socially, and cognitively, making it one of the hottest new senior fitness trends. The Sports and Fitness Industry Association claims the sport has grown 479% over the past five years with senior players making up one of the largest participant groups.
Why? In addition to Pilates and yoga, pickleball is a great balance exercise for seniors. And with a smaller court than tennis, a slower ball, and no overhand serving, the sport is highly accessible and addictive (in the best way possible). But there are even more reasons why this paddle sport is beneficial to older adults.
Many life plan communities have added pickleball courts to their campuses due to its rising popularity among the senior community and many social benefits. At John Knox Village, two indoor pickleball courts provide residents a way to continue to gather with friends to enjoy the sport no matter the season.
Quick Answer
Pickleball delivers physical, social, and cognitive benefits in one accessible, easy-to-learn activity. The smaller court and underhand serving reduce joint impact while still providing cardiovascular exercise, balance training, and bone-density support. The social aspect of the game supports overall happiness and reduces stress and feelings of loneliness while building friendships. And the brain gets just as much of a workout as the body.
Physical Benefits
We all know that movement is good for us. Turns out pickleball is a great example of what it means to glean the benefits of regular movement. Because the court is smaller than a tennis court, it only requires players to step instead of run, reducing stress on joints. But that’s not its only physical benefit:
- Improves heart health: A standard pickleball game played to 11 points takes between 15 and 25 minutes, the perfect amount of time to get your heart rate up before handing the court over to the next players.
- Supports bone density: We begin losing bone density in our 30s, and weight-bearing exercises and impact movements help us maintain it. So, moving across the court as you reach for that ball? You’re scoring a point for your team and for your bones.
- Increases balance and coordination: Stabilizing muscles get a good workout on the pickleball court, and the hand-eye coordination required to keep a good volley going keeps reflexes sharp.
Just like any sport, there is a risk for injury, so it’s important to warm up before you begin playing, start slow, and support your newfound hobby with exercises outside of the court that improve overall strength.
Social Benefits
Sports have long been a way for people to come together in camaraderie and friendly competition, and pickleball perfectly embodies these positive qualities. Senior players report reduced stress, increased happiness, higher life satisfaction, and fewer feelings of isolation. Like tennis, you can play singles or doubles, so you don’t have to get a large group together to get started. And all you need to begin playing is a paddle and sneakers, providing a low barrier to entry for anyone who might be unsure if they’ll enjoy the game.
Cognitive Benefits
Pickleball exercises your brain while working out your body. Unlike other exercises, this paddle sport requires your brain to use spatial reasoning, motor planning, quick reactions, and verbal communication all at the same time. Plus, the increased strategy required as you get more familiar with the game turns this into a thinking sport as well as a physical one.
This “dual tasking” improves brain health, providing senior pickleball players with benefits that extend well beyond the court:
- Supports thinking, memory, and learning
- Helps improve motor function, including balance
- Balances mood and regulates emotional responses
Few sports work the body, heart, and mind while also fostering friendship and community. Regardless of why you’re stepping onto the court, pickleball’s benefits highlight why it’s grown beyond a fitness trend into a loved activity that’s here to stay.
FAQ
Do I need prior sports experience to start playing?
Not at all. All you need is a paddle and a pair of sneakers! Rules are simple, the court is easy to navigate, and most pickleball communities are welcoming to beginners.
How often should seniors play to see real benefits?
Even two to three times per week can yield noticeable improvements in cardiovascular health, balance, and mood. Games run just 15 to 25 minutes, making it easy to play multiple rounds in a single session. Remember to start slow, listen to your body, and build from there.
How do I get started with pickleball?
Getting started is easier than you might think. A paddle can be purchased for as little as $30, and many recreation centers, parks, and life plan communities have dedicated courts. Most also have open play sessions where beginners are welcome to drop in, meet other players, and learn the rules in a more relaxed setting.
About John Knox Village
John Knox Village is a leader in senior living services in Lee’s Summit and the greater KC region. The community boasts a diverse range of living options from freestanding homes and apartment homes to villas. With more than 700,000 square feet of common space across the beautiful campus, you’ll find more opportunities and experiences right outside your door.
If you’re exploring Life Plan Communities in Lee’s Summit or the Kansas City area, we’d love to show you all that John Knox Village has to offer. Contact us today, call (816) 251-8000 to schedule a visit, or register to attend one of our upcoming events.
