4 Health Benefits of Pickleball

Pickleball, a game that uses paddle rackets and wiffle-type balls on a badminton-sized court, is one of the fastest growing sports, gaining several million players in the past few years alone. Nearly 30 percent of those who hit the court each week are 55 or older.

To meet the rising interest, pickleball courts are popping up everywhere, including at a network of SilverSneakers® community locations. The sport can be a game-changer for senior adults who want to enjoy a more active lifestyle. 

Pickleball may benefit your health by:

1. Lowering the risk of heart disease. As a cardio workout, it can help to improve your blood pressure and cholesterol.¹
2. Reducing the risk of depression. Staying active may help boost your mood, and pickleball is no exception.²
3. Increasing independence. Moving about the court and swinging your racket may help with hand-eye coordination, as well as balance, which is important for avoiding falls and living independently longer.²
4. Encouraging fitness and friendships. One recent study found that people like the sport because it helps them meet their fitness goals and enhance social connections.³

SilverSneakers, a lifestyle and fitness program designed specifically for seniors, is included with your HealthTeam Advantage plan at no additional cost. Check out articles from SilverSneakers such as 3 Best Exercises to Improve Your Pickleball Game.

With SilverSneakers, you’re sure to find something to fit your level, from SilverSneakers Classic with seated options, to high-intensity Total Body Strength. Plus, SilverSneakers gives you access to:

• memberships to thousands of fitness locations4 (visit as many as you like), some with pools and/or pickleball courts
• group exercise classes5 designed for all abilities
• instructors trained in senior fitness
• fun activities held outside the gym
• SilverSneakers On-Demand online workout videos for at-home workouts, available 24/7
• SilverSneakers LIVE full-length classes and workshops (exercise with others, but from the comfort of home)
• SilverSneakers GO mobile app with workout programs, location finder, and more

Ready to get started? Go to SilverSneakers.com/GetStarted to get your SiIverSneakers ID number today.

Always talk with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

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1. https://ijrep.org/the-acute-and-chronic-physiological-responses-to-pickleball-in-middle-aged-and-older-adults/
2. https://muschealth.org/medical-services/geriatrics-and-aging/healthy-aging/pickleball
3. Casper JM, Jeon JH. Psychological Connection to Pickleball: Assessing Motives and Participation in Older Adults. J Aging Phys Act. 2018 Oct 24:1-6. doi: 10.1123/japa.2017-0381.
4. Participating locations (“PL”) are not owned or operated by Tivity Health, Inc. or its affiliates. Use of PL facilities and amenities are limited to terms and conditions of PL basic membership. Facilities and amenities vary by PL.
5. Membership includes SilverSneakers instructor-led group fitness classes. Some locations offer members additional classes. Classes vary by location.
   

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