Pickleball has exploded in popularity, particularly among older adults, and is increasingly recognised for its mental and social health benefits. Two recent studies - one a scoping review in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health and the other a systematic review by Cerezuela et al. - highlight how this accessible sport can enhance psychological well-being and social connections.
How has pickleball influenced your health?
As ever, please talk to your doctor or medical practitioner most familiar with your medical history before implementing any changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle, especially if you are under treatment. Links to all studies at the bottom of the page.
Pickleball and Psychological Well-Being
Both studies affirm that playing pickleball can positively impact mental health. The systematic review by Cerezuela et al. found significant improvements in various psychological measures, including life satisfaction, happiness, stress reduction, and reduced symptoms of depression. Participants who played pickleball regularly reported higher levels of personal well-being compared to those who did not engage in the sport.
The scoping review by Stroesser et al. similarly highlighted that pickleball can support mental health by fostering feelings of authenticity, happiness, and motivation. One study included in this review examined how the COVID-19 pandemic affected older pickleball players. It found that during lockdowns, when participants played less or not at all, they experienced increased loneliness and lower life satisfaction. This suggests that pickleball is more than just a form of exercise—it plays a vital role in emotional stability and routine.
Additionally, Ryu et al. (cited in Cerezuela’s review) explored the concept of "serious leisure" in pickleball—where players dedicate themselves to the sport for personal fulfilment. Their findings suggest that participation in pickleball may be linked to a greater sense of purpose and reduced stress levels.
Pickleball as a Social Connector
One of pickleball’s greatest strengths is its ability to bring people together, particularly in later life when social isolation can become a serious issue. Stroesser et al. reported that pickleball fosters a strong sense of community, especially among older adults who may otherwise struggle to maintain active social networks. The sport is easy to learn, has a lower physical demand than tennis, and is often played in doubles, encouraging teamwork and regular social interaction.
Cerezuela’s systematic review reinforced these findings, noting that pickleball is an inherently inclusive sport that helps build social networks and support systems. The review found that women, in particular, benefited from the social aspect of the game, as female players were more likely to develop positive relationships with fellow participants.
Both reviews highlight that pickleball can be an effective way to bridge intergenerational gaps. Unlike many other sports, it is common for players of different ages and abilities to compete together, creating opportunities for meaningful social exchanges across generations.
The Fun Factor: Motivation to Stay Active
Enjoyment plays a crucial role in sustaining physical activity, and both studies found that pickleball's fun and engaging nature keeps players coming back. Stroesser et al. reported that in a study comparing pickleball to self-paced walking, players rated pickleball as significantly more enjoyable, making them more likely to stay active in the long term.
Cerezuela’s review also highlighted that pickleball players tend to be more intrinsically motivated, meaning they participate because they genuinely enjoy the game rather than for external rewards. This intrinsic motivation contributes to long-term adherence, which is particularly important for maintaining mental health benefits.
Final Thoughts
The evidence suggests that pickleball is more than just a sport - it is a powerful tool for enhancing mental well-being and fostering social connections. If you are based in Singapore and want to play, learn more about our pickleball community here. Whether it’s reducing stress, increasing life satisfaction, or strengthening community bonds, pickleball offers unique benefits that extend beyond physical health. As research in this area grows, it will be exciting to see how pickleball continues to shape the way we think about sport, mental health, and social engagement.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable way to stay active and connected, pickleball might be worth a try!
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Related Resources and Studies
The studies in review...
Stroesser K, Mulcaster A, Andrews DM. Pickleball Participation and the Health and Well-Being of Adults-A Scoping Review. J Phys Act Health. 2024 Jul 18;21(9):847-860. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2024-0092. PMID: 39025467.
Cerezuela JL, Lirola MJ, Cangas AJ. Pickleball and mental health in adults: A systematic review. Front Psychol. 2023 Feb 21;14:1137047. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1137047. PMID: 36895753; PMCID: PMC9988900.
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