Pickleball Benefits for Longevity: Pickleball might be one of the best hobbies for older adults looking to stay healthy and live longer. Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones, recently highlighted the game’s strong benefits on the mindbodygreen podcast, pointing to both physical and emotional health improvements.
Why Pickleball Is Good for Longevity
A Mayo Clinic study found that racket sports like tennis can add up to 9.7 years to life expectancy. Badminton adds about 6.2 years. While pickleball is a paddle sport, Dan Buettner said the movements and benefits are very similar.
“An hour later, you don’t realize you just had a really good workout,” said Dan Buettner, explaining that pickleball provides heart-healthy movement without feeling like exercise.
Boosting Mental Health and Reducing Loneliness
Another study showed that pickleball helped older adults feel happier, less stressed, and more satisfied with life. Dan Buettner believes much of that is because the sport builds social connections.
“You can’t help but make friends,” he said. That connection helps fight loneliness, which Dan Buettner said can reduce life expectancy by eight years. “If you’re lonely, it shaves eight years off your life expectancy,” he added.
Easy to Learn and Easy to Access
Pickleball is a low- to medium-intensity sport, making it perfect for seniors. It’s also growing quickly across the United States, with many parks and gyms now offering courts. If no court is nearby, players can still set up in a yard or open space.
All it takes to get started is a paddle, good shoes, and a few friends. Even beginners can enjoy the game and the health benefits right away.
A Hobby for Health and Friendship
Experts believe it’s not just the physical movement that makes pickleball helpful. The secret may be how it brings people together while keeping them active. For older adults, finding a fun hobby like pickleball may be one of the best ways to stay healthy and connected.
News in Brief: Pickleball Benefits for Longevity
Pickleball helps older adults stay active, happy, and connected. Dan Buettner said it boosts heart health, fights loneliness, and supports mental well-being. With many places to play and simple gear needed, the pickleball game is growing fast—and may even help players live longer lives.
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