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The benefits of pickleball for runners
Have you heard of pickleball? It’s the latest on-trend sport that people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy. Not only is it an opportunity to work up a sweat, but pickleball can be a fun way to socialize and improve your fitness at the same time.
If you’re a runner, it’s always smart to diversify your exercise routine to keep it interesting and build up your overall fitness. Pickleball can be a fun addition to your routine that helps improve your balance, coordination, and endurance—all important to support your goals as a runner. If you’re looking for new workouts to do to get on your non-running days, learn more about the various pickleball benefits and how to add it to your training schedule.
Getting started with pickleball
Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is played on a court with teams of one or two. For equipment, all you need is a paddle for each player and a plastic ball with holes. A pickleball court is the same size as a standard doubles badminton court and is often set up on concrete, Astroturf, and indoor basketball courts. There are also dedicated pickleball facilities in some cities that can offer a fun way to meet new people and bond over your love of pickleball. When it comes to pickleball clothing, you don’t need any special gear. A comfortable pair of running shoes, shorts, and a moisture-wicking tank top is the perfect pickleball uniform for both men and women. If you’re playing outside in the sun, don’t forget your sunscreen and hat.
If you want to learn the rules before you start, there are plenty of resources online to get you started. Next, it’s time to get on the court and start practicing.
Why is pickleball so popular?
Pickleball has existed since the 1960s, but its popularity has grown in recent years. Washington named it the official state sport in 2022, and there are currently four published pickleball world records in the Guinness World Records. That means more and more people are taking notice of pickleball health benefits on and off the court.
Pickleball has become a welcome addition to workout routines and all-around healthy lifestyles for a few key reasons:
- It’s ideal for all skill levels: You don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy a game of pickleball. Anyone can hit the court and work up a sweat.
- It promotes socializing on the court: Playing doubles gives you a chance to bond with your teammate, get a little competitive, and opens the door to meeting new people and hanging out after a game.
- It is a form of cardiovascular exercise: A game of pickleball will get your heart rate up and help increase stamina.
- It enhances agility and reflex capabilities: Practice makes perfect. The more you play pickleball, the faster your reflexes will get.
What are the benefits of playing pickleball for runners?
The same reasons that pickleball has grown in popularity as a workout make it the ideal addition to your training as a runner. As a cardiovascular workout, pickleball is great for building endurance. It also offers a unique opportunity to increase the power in your bursts of speed and learn how to change direction at a moment’s notice. Developing your reflexes and problem-solving can be useful if you do a lot of trail running with unpredictable terrain.
Overall, the health benefits of pickleball for runners are about adding variety to your training routine. You’re always working on your form as a runner, but pickleball can help you tap into the potential of muscles that you don’t always use as a runner. If you feel like you’ve reached a plateau in your progress, try adding a new workout like pickleball and find out how it can push your muscles to the next level.
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Disclaimer: Our writer's advice is intended for informational or general educational purposes only. We always encourage you to speak with your physician or healthcare provider before making any adjustments to your running, nutrition, or fitness routines.