10 good reasons to put on your court shoes and play pickleball.

Reason #1 – Training Change workouts challenge your muscles in new ways, which means you burn more calories. A change in routine will force your body to recruit more muscle fibers to stabilize your feet and strengthen your core. As you navigate the courts and explosive play, you’ll actually burn 10% more calories than walking or running on a treadmill or paved surface.

Reason #2 – Beat boredom

Nothing is worse than killing motivation than repetitive routines. Add some excitement to your next workout. There is a lot to look forward to when playing pickleball. If it’s a new sport for you, think of all the skills you can master; dinking, third shot, volleys, serves and the tactical strategies to outwit your opponents. There are so many varieties of skills and tactics that you might want to buy a book and study it.

Reason #3 – Socialization

I don’t think I’ve ever been on a court where I didn’t meet new people. It’s also a great way to stay active with your friends and catch up in person.

Reason #4 – Family time

Children of all ages have fun exploring the fun of the sport. Paddling positions, court maneuvers, strategies and just plain fun are great educational opportunities for the whole family to explore. The little ones can burn off some energy that will help them sleep better, and it’s a great environment to discuss the circle of life with older children, when it comes to pickleball of course.

Reason #5 – Lift your spirit

Getting away from the hustle and bustle of work obligations or family responsibilities can be essential for our well-being according to various studies. There is no better place to relax than to spend time on a pickleball court. Sunbathing increases the absorption of vitamin D through the skin. Stopping to smell the roses or meditate between games can help reduce stress and stave off depression. Pickleball also offers opportunities to be active in tournaments or social events that will affect your mood in a positive way.

Reason #6 – Prevention of osteoporosis

As a weight-bearing exercise, the regular game of pickleball can help prevent osteoporosis by increasing bone density and strengthening bones.

Reason #7 – Better cardiorespiratory fitness (heart, lungs and blood vessels)

This refers to its ability to deliver oxygen to skeletal muscles during regular exercise. As your exercise increases, your heart muscle becomes stronger, amplifying the volume of blood with each beat. The lungs allow proper gas exchange and control the rate of ventilation, as well as increasing the general sense of well-being.

Reason #8 – Profitable

A good idea is to invest in a good pair of light and resistant shoes: the average costs are from $75.00 to $170.00. If you’re a savvy shopper, you can find a deal at your local factory store. Include wick-a-way socks and wicking shirts to match your shoes for added comfort while on the courts.

Reason #9 – Sleep better

When it comes to having a direct effect on getting a good night’s sleep, it’s vigorous exercise in the late afternoon or early evening that seems most beneficial.

Reason #10 – Weight control

You don’t have to be in perfect shape to get started. Even if you are overweight, it won’t take long for you to reap the health benefits. A 150-pound person playing pickleball at a moderate intensity for an hour can burn 400 calories.

Remember that most experts recommend that if you have been inactive for several years, or already have a condition such as high blood pressure, consult your doctor first before beginning any physical activity.