9 Pickleball Benefits That Prove The Sport Is A True Smash

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines tennis, badminton, and ping pong, says pickleball champ Richard Deane. It’s become so popular in the past few years not only because it’s fun, but because it’s good for you mentally and physically. Here, all the benefits of pickleball.

It Works The Legs

Trainer Rachel MacPherson says a lively pickleball match will work your hamstrings, quads, glutes, and calves as you squat, shuffle, and make quick changes on the court to chase the ball.

It Strengthens The Arms

As a racket sport, pickleball serves as a light arm workout, too. According to MacPherson, swinging and serving works your shoulders, triceps, and biceps, so don’t be surprised if your upper body is sore after a big game.

It Boosts Overall Health

Pickleball studies (yep, those exist) have shown that regular games can improve blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular fitness in six weeks. To get all the benefits, MacPherson suggests playing for an hour three times a week.

It’s Low-Impact

Need to take it easy on your knees? You’re in luck. Pickleball is a low-impact game, especially compared to other racket sports like tennis, Deane says. It’s why you’ll always find a wide array of people on a pickleball court, from kids to seniors.

It Improves Balance

A pickleball game is what you make it. It can be slow and relaxed or fast-paced and intense. Go for the latter if you want to strengthen the leg and core muscles associated with better balance, says Deane.

It Boosts Agility

Mobility specialist Michael Jones, MS says the quick movements and directional changes also help improve your agility and reflexes. “Pickleball involves hitting a small ball with a paddle, which improves hand-eye coordination and reaction time,” he tells Bustle.

It Trains The Brain

Once you get into pickleball, you’ll see that a speedy game takes a lot of strategy and quick thinking, says Deane. He recommends playing pickleball if you want to improve your cognitive function and keep your mind sharp.

It’s Welcoming

According to Alyssa Carroll, founder of Disco Country Club, pickleball has an incredible community behind it. “It’s a great way to meet new people,” she tells Bustle. To get in on the action, check to see if your town has a pickleball group — or start one yourself.

It Reduces Stress

It’s fun, it’s social, and it makes you sweat. Add it all up and you’ll see why lots of people use pickleball as their go-to way to reduce stress, MacPherson says. Wear a cute pickleball outfit and get brunch after the game for an all-around great time.