The Pickleball Workout: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Playing Pickleball

Want to improve your mental wellbeing while getting in a great workout? You’ve come to the right game.

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world for good reason – it’s a game that packs in a ton of benefits. Not only is it a blast to play, it does wonders for your physical and mental health. From improving hand-eye coordination to reducing stress, playing pickleball is an awesome way to stay healthy and happy. We lay out the many benefits of playing pickleball.

#1: It’s a good cardiovascular workout.

Pickleball is an excellent way to get your heart pumping and burn some serious calories. The fast-paced nature of the game requires constant movement, making it an effective cardiovascular workout. It’s been found that people playing pickleball burned over 400 calories in just one hour. This makes it a great alternative to traditional cardio exercises like running or biking. 

#2: It provides great mental stimulation.

Pickleball is a terrific game for the brain, and playing regularly can help to keep the mind sharp and engaged. It trains hand-eye coordination and alertness, requires tact and strategy, and the ability to make quick decisions. All excellent for helping to maintain and improve cognitive skills and clarity. 

#3: It reduces stress and improves mental wellness. 

Pickleball is a great outlet that can help in combating daily stressors. Endorphins released during physical exercise are natural mood enhancers, and pickleball provides a unique level of distraction and relaxation that often cannot be found elsewhere, and can help stave off depression and anxiety. There's a certain satisfaction in hitting the ball just right, and that feeling of accomplishment when you play well can make the stresses of a tough work day dissipate. 

#4: It’s a low-impact exercise.

Sports can put a lot of stress on your joints and muscles, resulting in injuries or long-term damage. However, pickleball is relatively low-impact, making it an ideal option for people of all ages and fitness levels. Since it's a non-contact sport, the chances of injuries are minimal. This makes it a great option for those looking to stay active without putting a strain on their joints.

#5: The social aspect of the game improves overall wellbeing. 

Pickleball isn't just about getting healthy, physically or mentally, but is also about making friends. Pickleball games tend to attract a fun, laid-back crowd, creating an environment that fosters friendship, mentorship, and respect. Pickleball is about good sportsmanship and community bonding, and it’s an opportunity to meet new people, exchange playful competition, and have fun. Forging friendships and building camaraderie help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

#6: It enhances flexibility and balance.

As we age, our flexibility and range of motion decrease, making simple activities, such as bending over to tie your shoelaces, harder. The movements required by pickleball (lunging, jumping, pivoting) encourage participants to maintain and develop more balance, flexibility, and reaction time. The muscle memory and coordination built on the pickleball court go beyond the game itself, enhancing balance and flexibility in daily life. 

#7: It’s a very accessible sport.  

Pickleball is an accessible game that most people find easy to pick up. Whether you're retired or just looking for a fun way to stay active, the game offers something for everyone. It's also a great way to spend time with family and friends of all ages, making it a great multi-generational activity. And with courts becoming more readily available and relatively affordable equipment, it's easy to get started.