top of page
Writer's picturePHM

From Tennis to Pickleball: How Racquet Sports Enhance Mobility and Longevity

Updated: 4 days ago

Hi, I'm Paul, founder of Prehemptive CBD Cream. I've been playing tennis since I was a teen, and over the years, as my body aged, I gradually moved into other racquet sports like paddle tennis and, more recently, Pickleball. At 58, I've found that Pickleball offers a fantastic way to stay active while maintaining the same intensity I once loved in tennis. I've personally experienced the benefits of these sports, from the thrill of a well-placed shot to the camaraderie of playing with friends. These experiences have not only kept me physically fit but also mentally sharp and socially connected.


People playing pickleball at the Venice Beach California courts
Venice Beach, CA Tennis and Pickleball Courts

At Venice Beach Recreation Park, where I play, up to 3 pickleball courts can fit within a single tennis court. The size difference doesn't mean less effort—good players bring intensity, but beginners can have just as much fun. I play around four hours a week with friends in doubles matches or jumping into games with strangers. One of my playing buddies is Butch, an 82-year-old local legend with a forehand to be feared. Watching him play is a constant reminder that these sports are more than just a workout—they keep you sharp, focused, and connected to others.


Racquet sports like tennis, Pickleball, Badminton, or Squash offer more than a fun workout—they maintain mobility and promote longevity. Whether you're smashing forehands on the tennis court or rallying in a game of Pickleball, these activities provide a unique combination of cardiovascular, muscular, and social benefits that contribute to a longer, healthier life.


Key Physical Benefits of Racquet Sports


After years of playing both sports, I've personally felt the physical benefits.


  • Improved Cardiovascular Health: The bursts of movement in both sports elevate your heart rate, boosting cardiovascular endurance and reducing the risk of heart disease.


  • Increased Flexibility and Balance: Racquet sports involve lateral movement, quick directional changes, and stretching, which improve flexibility and balance—crucial for preventing falls as we age.


  • Enhanced Muscle Strength: Swinging a racquet engages your arms, shoulders, core, and legs, supporting overall muscle strength and better posture.


  • Exposure to Sunlight for Vitamin D: Playing outdoors ensures regular sun exposure, helping the body produce vitamin D, essential for healthy bones, immune support, and a positive mood.


The Science Behind Racquet Sports and Longevity


These sports have always been about more than just staying fit. They're about staying engaged in life. There's solid research backing this up, too. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2016 looked at over 80,000 people and found that racquet sports like tennis and Pickleball reduce the risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular disease. The full-body workout these sports provide is linked to increased life expectancy, with tennis players living nearly 10 years longer than non-racquet players. Due to its lower impact, Pickleball offers similar benefits, especially for older adults. This inspiring data underscores the role of racquet sports in promoting longevity, serving as a powerful motivator to keep returning to the court. These games might be the Fountain of Youth, and you can be a part of it.


4 ladies with medals pause for a group photo, Venice Beach California, Pickleball courts
Venice Beach Local Champions ;-)

The Social Element: How Racquet Sports Boost Mental Health


Racquet sports and their physical benefits provide vital social interaction that contributes to emotional well-being. Whether playing doubles in tennis or joining a pickleball group, the camaraderie on the court helps stave off loneliness and builds strong community ties, especially in older adults. The friendly competition, teasing, and gentle trash talk keep the competitive spirit alive, making each match a workout and a social boost. These activities improve cognitive function, making them a key contributor to mental health and longevity. It's not just about the game-its game-it's about the people you play with and the sense of community they provide.


Tennis vs. Pickleball: Choosing the Right Sport for Your Lifestyle


Over the years, I've come to appreciate tennis and Pickleball, but they offer different experiences. While both tennis and Pickleball provide immense benefits, they cater to various fitness levels and preferences:


1- Tennis is ideal for those seeking a full-body workout with a high-intensity cardiovascular challenge. It requires footwork, strategy, and solid visual coordination, making it an excellent choice for improving hand-eye coordination and mental agility.


2- Pickleball is a game for everyone. It's not about age or fitness level-its level-it's about the joy of the game. Its easy-to-learn nature, less technique than tennis, and full-body workout make it a fun and inclusive choice for all. Whether you're a pro athlete or starting your fitness journey, Pickleball welcomes you with open arms, ensuring everyone can find a place in this sport.


Is Pickleball Easier than Tennis? Pickleball is often considered easier to learn than tennis, particularly for beginners. The smaller court, lighter paddle, and slower ball speed make it more accessible and place less strain on the body. That said, Pickleball still offers plenty of challenges for competitive players! Whether you're looking for a casual game or a high-energy workout, Pickleball caters to all skill levels, while tennis requires more technical precision from the start.


Why Is It Called Pickleball? The name ''Pickleball'' might sound funny, but it has an interesting origin. According to one famous story, the game's inventors named it after the family dog, ''Pickles,'' who would chase after the ball during early matches. However, another version suggests that the name comes from ''pickle boat,'' a term used in rowing to describe a boat made up of leftover oarsmen. Either way, the quirky name has become synonymous with the sport's relaxed, social nature.


Pickleball Near Me? Looking for a fun and exciting way to stay active? Pickleball is becoming one of the fastest-growing sports, and chances are there's a local game near you! Many community centers, gyms, and parks now offer pickleball courts. To find a nearby match, try checking out pickleball directories, joining social media groups for local enthusiasts, or even downloading apps dedicated to connecting players. Search "Pickleball near me" to discover courts and communities nearby.


Practical tips for beginners looking to start playing tennis or Pickleball:


  1. Joining a local tennis or pickleball club is a great way to access courts and facilities and meet like-minded players.

  2. Take a Few Lessons: Start with a coach's beginner lessons to learn proper techniques and avoid bad habits.

  3. Network with Players at Your Level: Connect with others at your skill level for more balanced and enjoyable matches.

  4. Watch Games: Observe experienced players to pick up strategies and improve your game.

  5. Relax and Have Fun: Focus on enjoying the process and social aspects of the game.


Starting with these basics will help build confidence and skills!


Enhancing Performance and Recovery with Prehemptive CBD


To stay on top of your game and avoid everyday aches, Prehemptive CBD creams and full-spectrum oils offer natural support for performance and recovery. CBD's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe muscles and joints, allowing you to play longer with less discomfort. By reducing soreness and improving flexibility, these products aid in faster recovery, ensuring you're ready for your next match. Incorporating CBD into your wellness routine can keep you performing at your best, so aches don't hold you back. Our products are rigorously tested and safe for regular use, providing a natural alternative to traditional pain relief methods. It's important to note that CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a ''high, ''making it a safe and effective option for athletes and active adults.


Boosting Mobility and Longevity Through Tennis and Pickleball


Tennis and Pickleball offer more than just a fun workout; they are crucial to maintaining mobility and promoting long-term health. Whether working on your footwork on the tennis court or playing a fast-paced pickleball game, these sports keep you agile, focused, active, and supporting overall longevity.


Potential Risks and Remedies for Tennis and Pickleball Players


While tennis and Pickleball are great for health, they also come with some injury risks, such as tennis elbow, knee injuries, and ankle sprains, due to quick lateral movements. Repeated actions like serving can also lead to shoulder strain. To reduce injury risk, warm up properly, stretch, and strengthen your core with low-impact exercises like elastic bands. Consider using braces for extra support. Being aware of these risks and taking Preventive measures can ensure you enjoy the game without any setbacks.


Prehemptive Blue Jar With Pictures of all the plants used in Prehemptive 250 mg CBD cream
Learn how these racquet sports, combined with Prehemptive CBD, enhance recovery and keep you active.

Incorporating CBD into Your Wellness Routine for Racquet Sports


As I've gotten older, I've noticed that recovery time differs from what it used to be. That's where Prehemptive CBD creams and full-spectrum oils have made a big difference. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD help soothe my sore muscles and joints after a tough match. Whether it's tennis or Pickleball, applying the cream before and after games keeps me moving and ready for the next session. If I'm dealing with soreness, a little CBD helps me bounce back faster, ensuring I'm always up for another game.


  • Pre-Game: Apply Prehemptive CBD cream to sore or tight areas before a match to reduce stiffness and inflammation.

  • Post-Game Recovery: Use CBD cream after playing to soothe muscles and aid recovery. Full-spectrum CBD oil can also help relax your body and promote better sleep, which is critical for overall recovery.

  • Daily Routine: Consider a daily CBD oil dose to manage discomfort and maintain joint health.


Serve Up Longevity with Racquet Sports


After decades of playing tennis and transitioning into Pickleball, these racquet sports are vital to my lifestyle. From the fast-paced competition to the social connections on the court, tennis and Pickleball offer physical, mental, and emotional benefits that have kept me healthy and engaged. Whether you're you're 13 or 82, like Butch, there there's a place for everyone in these sports. So grab a racquet, stretch, and get out there—you'll thank yourself later.


Comments


bottom of page