Pickleball is a paddle sport that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. It’s a combination of badminton, tennis, and table tennis, and can be played both indoor and outdoor.
When you get to an age where your joints are no longer what they used to be, you might start thinking about switching to a lower-impact sport. And pickleball could be a great option for seniors.
In this article, we talk about the pros and cons of pickleball for seniors and why do older people love this sport so much.
Why Older People Love Pickleball So Much
The problem with exercise is that it’s, well, exercise. It can be hard to motivate yourself to get up and move when you’re not feeling your best. But pickleball is different. This paddle sport is easy to learn, doesn’t require a lot of space, and can be played at your own pace. In other words, it’s the perfect game for seniors.
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States, with more than 3 million players nationwide, being particularly popular among seniors, who make up a large percentage of the pickleball player demographic.
There are plenty of reasons why seniors love pickleball. The game is easy to learn and can be played at a leisurely pace, making it ideal for those who are looking for a low-impact workout. Pickleball is also a great way to socialize and meet new people, as it is typically played in doubles format.
Pickleball can also help with osteoporosis prevention, because it can help increase bone density in postmenopausal women.
Can 70 year olds play pickleball?
Yes, pickleball is a great sport for seniors at any age, and can be played at any skill level. There are also plenty of instructional videos and resources available online for those who are just starting out.
Pros of pickleball for seniors
You Can Play It At Any Skill Level
Pickleball is a great sport for seniors because it can be played at any skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who’s never picked up a racket before, you can find a game of pickleball that’s just right for you.
There are also plenty of instructional videos and resources available if you want to learn how to play.
It’s A Great Workout
Pickleball is an excellent way to get some exercise, especially if you’re looking for a low-impact sport. Although it is technically a competitive sport, there’s no reason why you can’t just play for fun and fitness.
And since it’s not as intense as other sports like tennis or basketball, it’s less likely to aggravate any existing injuries or health conditions.
It’s sociable
Pickleball is a sociable sport, and playing with friends is one of the best parts about it. If you’re looking for a way to meet new people and make some friends, pickleball could be perfect for you. There are also plenty of opportunities to join clubs or leagues if you want to take your pickleball playing to the next level.
Keeps your mind working
Not only is pickleball great for your physical health, but it’s also good for your mental health. The fast-paced nature of the game keeps your mind working and can help improve your hand-eye coordination.
Pickleball is also a great way to relieve stress and relax.
Can be played both indoors and outdoors
One of the great things about pickleball is that it can be played both indoors and outdoors. So if the weather isn’t cooperating, or you just don’t feel like going outside, you can always play pickleball indoors.
Cons of pickleball for seniors
While pickleball is a great sport for seniors, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start playing. But if you’re aware of the potential risks and take the necessary precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy pickleball without any problems.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
You need a partner
Pickleball is typically played in doubles format, so you will need a partner to play. This can be someone you know or someone you meet at the pickleball courts.
If you don’t have a partner, you can always try to find a game that’s already in progress and join in. Just be sure to ask the other players first if they mind.
You Might Need Some New Equipment
If you’re going to start playing pickleball, you might need to invest in some new equipment. A pickleball paddle and some pickleballs can be relatively inexpensive, but if you don’t already have them, it’s something to keep in mind. You may also need to buy or rent a court if there aren’t any public courts in your area.
Of course, you can always borrow equipment from a friend or try to find some used equipment if you’re on a budget.
You Might Get Hooked!
Once you start playing pickleball, there’s a good chance you’ll get hooked! It’s such an addicting game that many people find themselves playing several times per week. If you’re not careful, pickleball could easily become your new favorite hobby—and that might not be such a bad thing!
Injuries can happen
Like with any sport, there is always a risk of injury when playing pickleball. But as long as you warm up properly and don’t overdo it, you should be fine.
If you do start to feel pain, be sure to stop playing and rest. The last thing you want is to make an existing injury worse.
Conclusion
Overall, pickleball is a great sport for seniors. It offers many benefits, such as the ability to play at any skill level, a great workout, improved mental health, and the opportunity to meet new people.
There are a few things to keep in mind before you start playing, such as the need for a partner and the possibility of needing to buy new equipment, but these are small considerations compared to the many benefits of pickleball.
So if you’re looking for a new hobby or sport to try, pickleball is definitely worth checking out.
