Pickleball: Why It’s Great for Your Health, If You Play It Smart
- milkandhoneypt
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
If you've walked through the parks in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks, or even joined the most recent Pickleball sensation in our community, Pickleball Athletic Club, located in Newbury Park, you've probably heard the pop-pop-pop of pickleball paddles. It’s not just a trend, it’s a movement. As a physical therapist and owner of Milk and Honey Physical Therapy, I see the impact of this fast-growing sport every day, both in its physical benefits and its injury risks.
Let’s take a closer look at why pickleball is so good for you, AND how to enjoy it safely and sustainably.
The Health Benefits of Pickleball: More Than Just Fun
Pickleball combines aerobic activity, coordination, and social interaction in a way that’s especially beneficial for active adults and older adults. Studies are starting to show that it’s not only fun, it’s also linked to longer lifespan, better mental health, and reduced risk of chronic disease.
Here’s why your body and brain love pickleball:
Improves Cardiovascular Health – Even moderate-intensity pickleball can raise your heart rate enough to improve circulation and lower blood pressure.
Boosts Longevity – One large study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that racquet sports like pickleball are associated with a 47% reduction in all-cause mortality, thanks to the combination of aerobic and anaerobic activity.
Enhances Brain Function – The quick decision-making, hand-eye coordination, and social aspect of the game support cognitive health and may help slow age-related decline.
Strengthens Muscles and Bones – The start-stop nature of pickleball helps build bone density and maintain muscle mass, both critical for aging well.
Reduces Stress & Builds Community – Let’s not overlook the joy factor. Pickleball is incredibly social, which makes it easier to stay consistent and reduces feelings of isolation, something we know has a real impact on both mental and physical health.
The Flip Side: Play Smart to Stay Safe
While the benefits are clear, I also see the downside in my clinic, especially when people jump in without proper prep. Common pickleball-related injuries include:
Tennis (or “pickleball”) elbow
Rotator cuff strains
Meniscus and knee irritation
Achilles and calf injuries
Lower back strain from rotation or poor core engagement
Most of these are preventable with just a little forethought.
PT Tips for Safe, Sustainable Pickleball
Here’s how to protect your body while reaping all the benefits:
Warm Up Like You Mean It: Don’t just jump on the court. A 5–10-minute dynamic warm-up that includes arm swings, leg swings, lateral steps, and light cardio will prime your body for play.
Train Off the Court: Pickleball isn’t a substitute for strength training. Focus on glutes, core, shoulders, and calves. It’ll improve performance and keep injuries at bay.
Wear the Right Shoes: Court shoes with lateral support are essential. Running shoes may feel comfortable, but they don’t offer the stability needed for quick side-to-side movements.
Don’t Ignore Pain: If something feels “off,” don’t push through it. Early intervention is key. What starts as tightness can become a tear if ignored.
Serving the COnejo Valley Community, On and Off the Court
At Milk and Honey Physical Therapy, we love helping pickleball players of all levels stay active and pain-free. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just want to make sure your body is moving optimally, we’re here to help.
We offer:
Pickleball-specific movement assessments
Injury recovery programs
Strength and mobility training for prevention
Pickleball is one of the best things you can do for your health, as long as you treat your body with the same care you give your paddle.
Ready to move better, play stronger, and feel your best? Visit us at Milk and Honey Physical Therapy in Westlake Village. We’ll help you stay in the game, safely and confidently.
📞 Call us or 📅 book online today!
(818)201-2111
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