What are the health benefits of playing pickleball?

Recently, pickleball has become a phenomenon on social networks, attracting the attention of young people and sports enthusiasts. Considered a combination of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball not only brings excitement during the game but also has many health benefits.

Coach Nguyen Thi Ngoc Trang, a professional pickleball instructor, shared that pickleball is a sport that requires flexibility and agility. Players must constantly move on the court, make accurate shots and react quickly.

Coach Nguyen Thi Ngoc Trang, professional pickleball instructor (Photo: Character provided).

"This is a sport that helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens the body, reduces stress and improves the spirit. Playing pickleball regularly can bring flexibility and a toned body," said coach Trang.

According to this expert, pickleball has a strong impact on many major muscle groups of the body such as: thighs, biceps, shoulders and abdominal muscles. The fast movements, constant changes of direction and hitting the ball in pickleball help tone these muscle groups and effectively support fat burning.

"An hour of playing pickleball can burn from 400 to 600 calories, even more if played at high intensity," added Coach Trang.

Here is more information about the health benefits of playing pickleball:

Improve cardiovascular health

Pickleball is a moderate-intensity sport that helps players maintain a stable heart rate and increase blood circulation. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity showed that people who play pickleball regularly have an average heart rate of 110-140 beats per minute.

This is consistent with a moderate level of exercise that is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Therefore, this sport helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improve blood pressure and improve the overall health of the cardiovascular system.

Helps lose weight and maintain shape

Pickleball requires players to move constantly, thereby burning calories and reducing excess fat. Research from the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine has shown that pickleball players can burn between 400 and 600 calories per hour, depending on the intensity and type of play.

Burning these calories aids in weight loss and maintaining a healthy body, giving players a healthier body.

Strengthen muscles and joints

The hitting and moving of the ball in pickleball helps stimulate muscle growth, especially in the legs, arms, and abdominal muscles.

According to research from Sports Health Magazine, participating in pickleball helps increase muscle strength and improve bone density, especially in the elderly, thereby reducing the risk of osteoporosis and improving bone and joint strength.

Notes when playing pickleball

According to Coach Trang, shoes specifically designed for pickleball are the best choice, avoiding running shoes because they do not support movement on the court well. In addition, equipment such as rackets and clothes do not need to be too expensive, just ensure comfort and suitability for the budget.

To be effective when playing pickleball, beginners need to patiently learn the basic techniques and get used to controlling the racket and ball.

Experts emphasize the importance of focusing on improving physical fitness and reflexes, as well as maintaining a positive, cheerful spirit throughout the training process.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/tap-pickleball-dem-lai-loi-ich-gi-cho-suc-khoe-20240827073221944.htm