Fun Fitness Tips for Arizona’s Seniors: Play Safe & Stay Active

Embracing the Pickleball Craze: Safety and Benefits for Seniors

As fall arrives, pickleball is sweeping through the senior fitness community nationwide. This highly enjoyable, low-impact sport offers a fantastic way for you to stay active and social. With a significant elderly population, especially in states like Arizona where adults aged 65 and above account for almost 20% of the total population, it’s crucial to prevent pickleball-related injuries. As the popularity of pickleball grows, estimates suggest a 150% increase in players this year to reach 22.3 million. Remarkably, a third of the players who engage in the sport eight times weekly are older adults.

Ensure Your Safety with These Top Five Pickleball Playing Tips

• Consult Your Doctor Beforehand

Most people can safely participate in moderate physical activities. However, it’s always wise for you to consult your doctor before drastically increasing your activity level, especially if you are overweight, have underlying health conditions, or are just starting. Your doctor can provide advice on the best types and amounts of activities for you.

• Start Gradually, Hydrate, and Protect Your Skin

Begin at a comfortable pace and gradually challenge yourself as your fitness level improves. Don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated and your skin protected with sunscreen.

Also, make sure to wear appropriate shoes and eye protection, and use suitable pickleball equipment.

• Maintain Court Safety and Always Have an Emergency Plan

Keep the playing area clear of obstacles, avoid playing on wet pickleball courts, and always have a plan for emergencies.

Experience Numerous Health Benefits with Regular Pickleball Play

Consistent and safe pickleball gameplay can contribute to enhanced brain health, weight management, risk mitigation of diseases, stronger bones, and muscles. It can also improve your overall everyday functionality.

Physical activities low on joint stress such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, gardening, water exercises and dancing are comparable to pickleball.

Social connections can boost mental and physical health, influencing behaviors that impact health and lifespan. Research reveals links between social connectedness and longer life, improved health, and enhanced well-being.

• Pickleball Boosts Balance and Offers Multifaceted Activity

Balance exercises reduce fall risks and injury. Examples include walking backward, standing on one leg, or using a balance board. These exercises, along with strengthening your back, abdomen, and legs, can improve your balance. Multifaceted physical activities like pickleball combine moderate or vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, muscle strengthening, and balance training. Other examples include dancing, yoga, tai chi, and gardening.

For all pickleball enthusiasts, particularly seniors, it’s crucial to prioritize safety on the court so you can continue to play and enjoy an active life in the long run. All active seniors in Arizona and beyond are encouraged to remain fit and healthy to enjoy sports like pickleball while minimizing injury risks.