Pickleball: A Sport for Those Who Relish Fitness and Fun

In the summer of 1965, congressman Joel Pritchard couldn't find enough equipment around the house for his family to play badminton, so he grabbed some table tennis paddles, a perforated plastic ball, and a net. This mishmash game eventually evolved into the sport of pickleball.

While the origin of the name "pickleball" is argued, many believe that the game was named after Pritchard's dog Pickles, who ran off with the plastic ball between plays.

Sixty years later, the game is booming. In fact, pickleball has had an average growth rate of almost 159% in the past three years, according to a 2023 report published by the Association of Pickleball.  

Older adults were early pickleball fans, and they still are today.

"Several aspects of the game make it a good choice for people of any age and ability, including older adults," says Alexandra Kovaleva, M.D., medical director at Seabrook, an Erickson Senior Living community in Tinton Falls, N.J.

Good for your brain
Numerous studies show how important social interaction is for your well-being--especially for mental health. That's why the social aspect of pickleball is such a benefit.

"People truly enjoy playing the game, and a huge part of that enjoyment is interacting with other players," says Kovaleva. "Other ways to exercise, such as using a treadmill, can be solitary, boring, or feel like a chore. With pickleball, you face different teams. There are lots of opportunities to make new friends."

As a result of these fun interactions, playing pickleball can make it easier to stick to an exercise plan. Dr. Kovaleva notes, "It's much easier if you look forward to exercise."

Pickleball can also keep your thinking skills sharp. "During a game, you strategize, focus, and make quick decisions," she says. "Combining a brain workout with a body workout is an ideal recipe for maintaining your cognitive health."

Good for your body
Unlike tennis, pickleball courts are small, making it easy for older adults to reach the ball without running back and forth. In addition, the paddles and balls weigh very little, which can minimize stress on joints.

"You can play a casual game or have a more intense competition, depending on how you feel that particular day," Kovaleva says. "But even during a casual game, you are moving your body around quite a lot, which is great for your heart and lung health."

Pickleball works all your muscles, which makes them stronger and better able to support your bones. "Strengthening your musculoskeletal system also helps you avoid falls because you can balance better," Kovaleva says.

Getting ready to play
In 2019, a report in the Journal of Emergency Medicine estimated that about 19,000 pickleball injuries occur yearly, mainly involving muscle strain and tendonitis. But, if you take the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming injured.

"Protect yourself from injury by seeing your primary care doctor before you start playing pickleball or participating in any other new activity," Kovaleva says. "Pickleball may not be suitable for people with certain heart conditions, lung disease, or serious joint problems."

"It's also important to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and warm up your muscles by stretching," she adds. "And make sure you have plenty of water nearby to stay hydrated. Then go join the fun!"

Erickson Senior Living communities offer many opportunities to stay active and have fun at the same time.  To learn more, find a community near you.