What if you could increase your life expectancy by simply playing a game? And then we are not talking about chess or Sudoku – but about something that brings you in motion, increases your social circle and improves your mood. Sounds great, right? According to scientists, there is a simple, surprisingly fun hobby that combines all these benefits, namely pickleball. And no, you really don’t have to be a sports fan for this.
What is PickleBall anyway?
Pickleball is a mix of tennis, badminton and ping -pong, but then a bit more accessible and above all: megagezelly! It is played on a somewhat smaller field, with a kind paddle Instead of a racket, and a plastic ball with holes. That may sound a bit drowsy, but believe us: you should not underestimate this sport! Those drops of sweat on your forehead really appear faster than you think. And exactly that is the intention.
According to a large -scale research Among more than 90,000 elderly people are having a hobby together with fewer depressive complaints, a better sense of health and more joy of life. And let PickleBall are just that one game that not only drives your heart rate up, but also gives your social life a boost!
The secret is not alone in sport
Author Dan Buettner explains to mindbodygreen exactly why Pickleball is the sport for some extra years of life. A study shows that sports with a racket or paddle Taking the crown when it comes to life -prolonging activities. Tennis can extend your lifespan by almost ten (!) Years and badminton with more than six. Pickleball is not mentioned literally, but according to him the movements and social context are comparable – so count out of your winnings!
But the real secret behind the success of Pickleball? That really lies in the people around you. “You can’t be social during pickleball,” says Buettner. In other words: it is almost impossible not to get to know new people while playing the sport.
And that is not a detail, because long -term loneliness appears to be just as harmful to your life expectancy as smoking (yes, really). Through pickleball you not only take your movement, but also your dose of connection, pleasure and mental health. Win-win!
A sport for everyone
What makes pickleball so great is that it works for all ages. You don’t have to have a top condition, to be super competitive and you don’t need expensive things. Only one paddlea ball, a small field and a handful of people. You don’t need more. Even if you do not have an official job at your disposal, you can start improvising in your garden or in the park. Perfect, right?
Who thought a game like Pickleball could have so much impact? Well, we don’t! From a better mood to a longer lifespan: it is the ideal combination of movement, connection and pleasure. So put on your sneakers, collect your friends and go onto the field. Your body and mind will be grateful to you!
Also read: Sports at home: Mylène (29) lost 50 kilos through YouTube
