Pickleball’s Health Benefits: Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., is winning praise not just for fun, but also for health benefits. Andrew Li-Yung Hing, MD, says it boosts heart health, mood, and social ties. The simple game is helping people stay active, connected, and happy, no matter their age.
Pickleball began in 1965 as a family game. Three fathers wanted to create a fun summer activity for their children. It was first played using table tennis pickleball paddles and a plastic ball on a badminton court. Its name came from a “pickle boat” in rowing, a mix of leftover rowers.
Good for the Heart
Pickleball involves quick movements and light running. “Increasing your heart rate leads to better cholesterol and blood pressure levels,” said Li-Yung Hing. He explained it offers better cardio exercise than walking.
Racket sports like pickleball also build bone strength and fitness. “It’s probably one of the best things that you can do to involve folks who want to prevent osteoporosis,” he added.
Brain and Body Connection
The game is easy to learn and keeps players sharp. “You don’t even need to know the rules,” said Li-Yung Hing. “There’s some different terminology, but scoring is easy.”
The game improves hand-eye coordination. “You can stay mentally sharp by consistently working on your hand-eye coordination,” he explained. “The exercise is happening in your neurological system from the head to toe.”
Making Friends Through Play
Pickleball is social. It can be played with two, three, or four people. “Socializing is part of a well-balanced health routine,” said Li-Yung Hing.
He noted how businesses now mix pickleball with food and drinks. Even off the court, people connect online about new paddles, tournaments, and games.
All Ages Welcome
The game is popular with people of all ages. “When you go to a pickleball court, you might easily see high schoolers playing next to retirees,” Li-Yung Hing said.
The non-contact, low-impact sport allows young and old to play together. It builds friendships and a sense of belonging, which is good for emotional health.
A Mood Booster
Playing pickleball also improves mood. “When you participate in something you enjoy, you stimulate those endorphins that help relieve anxiety, stress, and depression,” said Li-Yung Hing. Players leave the court feeling happy and relaxed.
More Than a Trend
Li-Yung Hing believes pickleball is here to stay. “No one thinks about the actual health benefits without first enjoying what they love to do,” he said. “Pickleball could be an exercise prescription so long as you’re healthy enough to enjoy it.”
The game requires little equipment and training. It quickly became popular in recent years and continues to grow.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Health Benefits
Pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport, loved for its fun and health benefits. Andrew Li-Yung Hing, MD, says it boosts heart health, mood, fitness, and social life. Easy to learn and great for all ages, pickleball connects people and improves both physical and mental health in a fun, welcoming way.
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