Thereâs a new sound echoing through parks across Americaâthe cheerful âpopâ of a pickleball. This fast-growing sport has swept the nation, and it all started right here in Washington on Bainbridge Island. What began as a backyard pastime in the 1960s has grown into a movement, attracting everyone from competitive 20-somethings to retirees rediscovering their athletic spark.
In 2023 alone, over 13.6 million Americans picked up a paddleânearly tripling the number of players since 2021. So, what makes pickleball so irresistible? Itâs fun, social, easy to learn, and incredibly satisfying to play. Itâs also a great way to stay active, stay sharp, and stay social, which are just a few of the pillars of healthy aging.
The physical perks of pickleball
Pickleball offers a dynamic workout without the intensity (or the same level of injury risk) of higher-impact sports. It improves balance, coordination, endurance, and muscle tone, especially in the lower body and core. The court is smaller than tennis, so you donât have to run farâbut the game keeps you moving with quick pivots, lunges, and reflex-driven plays.
Better yet, itâs gentle on the joints. For older adults or those with arthritis or mobility concerns, pickleball is accessible and adaptable. Regular play can help reduce the risk of falls and maintain overall functional fitness and balance. According to the Mayo Clinic, it also supports heart health and healthy weight managementâtwo key concerns as we age.
Learning something new keeps you sharp
Staying physically active is great, but learning something newâlike the rules and rhythms of a sportâcan supercharge your brain health. A 2023 study highlighted in Scientific American showed that older adults who regularly learned new skills had improved memory and cognitive function, particularly when those activities were complex, social, and engaging.
Even more compelling? Moderate to vigorous activity in midlife and beyond is linked to a 35% reduced risk of dementia, according to recent research published by The Guardian. That makes sports like pickleball a win-win: youâre not only working your muscles, but also reinforcing neural pathways, improving reaction time, and strengthening memory with each match.
The social advantage of group sports
Pickleball is famously social. Most games are played in doubles, encouraging teamwork and friendly banter. Many communitiesâincluding Yakimaâoffer drop-in play times where people of all ages and abilities mix and mingle.
That social interaction isnât just pleasantâitâs powerful.
Strong social ties are linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. For many older adults, learning a new sport offers a sense of accomplishment, builds confidence, and helps form new friendships.
Why everyoneâs playing (and loving) pickleball
According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, older adults still make up a significant portion of players, but the sportâs biggest growth is actually among millennials and Gen Z. Thatâs part of what makes it such a vibrant activityâgrandparents and grandchildren can share the court, learn from each other, and stay active together.
Itâs also affordable, with minimal equipment required: just a paddle, a ball, and a pair of comfortable shoes. You can learn the basics in a single afternoon and improve with every game.
June is Great Outdoors Monthâletâs celebrate in Yakima
June is officially Great Outdoors Month, a time to enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and wellness benefits that come with being active outside. Yakima is the perfect place to join in.
Ready to give pickleball a try? Here are a few great spots to start:
- Yakima Parks & Recreation â Beginner classes in June.
- Yakima Athletic Club â Offers indoor courts and beginner-friendly programs.
- Sozo Sports Complex â Expansive sports facility with drop-in play opportunities.
- Franklin Park â Open outdoor courts with a welcoming local community. Check out Yakima Pickleball Club for drop-ins and open sessions.
- You can always purchase a paddle and play in one of our incredible parks! We like Franklin Park, Clemanâs View Sports Park, and Carlon Park.
Whether youâre lacing up your sneakers for the first time in years or looking for a new hobby with social flair, pickleball might be your perfect match. This June, grab a paddle, invite a friend, and step into something new. Your body, brain, and heart will thank you.
Source: IlluminAge Communication Partners
