A relatively new sport is taking the country by storm. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the USA, having expanded by 159 percent in the past three years.
It’s growing in popularity with older Americans who can no longer tolerate the demands of racquet sports like tennis and racquetball. A combination of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball benefits cardiovascular and mental health, building camaraderie, and providing a fun way to stay fit.
U.S. News & World Report provides a guide on how to get the most out of pickleball and avoid possible injuries. Like other racquet sports, pickleball depends on good hand-eye coordination and requires some quick starts and sudden stops that can strain muscles. Rather than power and speed, it relies on technique and finesse. The most common areas for injury are the wrist, lower leg, head, and lower torso.
The key to avoiding injury is to properly warm up, work on your overall conditioning, and allow for a cool-down period afterward.
Always Be Mindful When Playing Any Sport
Doctors highly recommend pickleball palyers engage in dynamic stretching before playing and be sure to stay hydrated. Also, be sure to pace yourself and don’t push yourself too hard. The last thing you want is to overdo it and wind up hurting yourself.
Be sure to check out our other articles on Council of Seniors 365 for tips on leading a healthy, active lifestyle.
We’d love for you to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter!
