Try Pickleball, the Country’s Fastest-Growing Sport
You may have heard friends and neighbors talking about playing pickleball. It is extraordinarily popular and is now the fastest growing sport in the U.S. The rules are easy to learn, minimal equipment is needed, there is an intergenerational appeal and it offers abundant opportunities for socializing. This blend of badminton, tennis and table tennis can be adjusted to suit the intensity and competitiveness of the players, making it simple enough for beginners but fast-paced enough for more fit or skilled participants.
Already a favorite sport in retirement communities, the spike in popularity has been fueled by people ages 54 and younger looking for a friendly, yet competitive and lively sport. “People who play are generally having so much fun they don’t realize how much exercise they’re actually getting,” says Laura Gainor, spokesperson for the USA Pickleball Association.
“Pickleball doesn’t require the skill of tennis, so it is easily adapted by most, and provides all the benefits of movement, including calorie burning and enhanced functional capabilities,” says Dr. Cedric Bryant, American Council on Exercise president and chief science officer. As we all know, regular exercise yields long-term benefits and pickleball is a sport that can be played throughout life.
A small research study recently conducted by the organization among people ages 40 to 85 showed that playing four 15-minute pickleball matches three days each week meets exercise intensity guidelines for improving and maintaining cardiorespiratory fitness. Study authors reported the positive impact on cardiometabolic risk factors, with participants experiencing favorable changes in cholesterol levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and peak oxygen uptake after six weeks.
At 44 x 20 feet, the pickleball court is one quarter the size of a tennis court, so it’s easier to keep the ball in play and achieve a brisk workout. The smaller court benefits older people or those who have problems with their joints, because there is less running and less wear and tear on joints. The lighter ball also makes shoulder injuries much less likely than in tennis.
“Take a few lessons to get started, and you’ll quickly ramp up,” assures Gainor. “After three to five games, you’ll have a very good understanding of how to play, and will become addicted to it shortly after!”
Sources: American Council on Exercise, American Heart Association, USA Pickleball Association