3 Reasons Why Pickleball Is A Favorite Among Active Seniors

We all know pickleball — the fastest-growing sport in America — is a popular senior activity. But is it right for you? While pickleball has many health benefits, discover what truly hooks most older adults. Keep reading for the top three reasons why players are passionate about the game.

1. It’s Fun!

Remember when you were a kid and you played kickball or tag because it was fun, not because it was good exercise? Pickleball can take you back to those days. Partially, because it’s easy to pick up, most people can grab a pickleball paddle for the first time and quickly learn how to hit the ball and keep it in play. 

In pickleball most people play doubles, since the court is small (one-quarter the size of a tennis court), it’s easy to cover. The underhand serve is easy to learn and doesn’t strain your shoulder. Forehands and backhands are also less intense than in tennis. All add up to a low-impact workout, making it easier and more fun for active seniors.  

2. It’s Social

Pickleball is usually played in a round-robin format. That means you play one match, usually doubles, then move on to play with another set of opponents. Typically, there’s a short break between matches, allowing players to socialize and get to know one another.

Pickleballers are also known for loving to share their love of the game. If it’s your first time playing you’ll likely be welcomed, shown the ropes, and matched up with a partner.

3. It’s Accessible

There are more than 50,000 indoor and outdoor courts in the United States. To find a court or play time near you, input your zip code into this search bar on Pickleheads.com, the official court and game finder of USA Pickleball.

All you really need to play is a paddle — and there are usually paddles you can borrow at pickleball socials. But if you decide to buy your own gear, you can pick a paddle up for less than $20. Check out this guide for choosing a paddle. A pair of court shoes, which offer traction and help prevent injuries, is also a good idea.

Bonus: the Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Pickleball

People are passionate about pickleball for the reasons we just ran through, but it’s also true that it’s a good workout and a mood booster.

A 160-pound person can burn between 500 and 700 calories in an hour of pickleball, according to the Racquet Sports Center. That’s about double what you’d burn in an hour of moderate walking. Pickleball also requires squatting, reaching overhead, and bending down — all of which work the muscles that help us function better off the court. 

What’s more, a study in the International Journal of Research in Exercise Physiology found that older adults who played pickleball three days per week for six weeks improved their blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This 2023 review of 13 research papers specifically addressing the over-50 population concluded that the mental health benefits of pickleball are significant, including “personal well being, life satisfaction, depression, stress, happiness, etc.”

Activities for Seniors at Monroe Village

The best senior living communities offer more than basic senior care. Imagine days that start in the heated indoor pool before moving on to one of the local pickleball courts. Take a look at the activities at Monroe Village to see the opportunities offered to socialize, learn, compete, work out, and enjoy life. Schedule a visit today to see for yourself what life looks like at our campus in Monroe Township, New Jersey.