Game On: How Pickleball Helps You Stay Active & Healthy

Celebrating National Pickleball Month with North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists

Pickleball might be one of the fastest-growing sports in America, but its real appeal lies in how accessible, social, and beneficial it is for people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to stay active, a new hobby to share with friends, or a way to boost your overall health, pickleball checks all the boxes.

Why Pickleball Is Gaining Popularity

Unlike many high-impact sports, pickleball is played on a smaller court with a lightweight paddle and a perforated plastic ball, making it gentler on the joints while still delivering a great workout. The rules are easy to learn, which means new players can jump in quickly and enjoy the game without needing advanced skills or expensive equipment.

It’s also incredibly social. Pickleball is often played in doubles, encouraging interaction, laughter, and a sense of community—something that’s just as important for mental well-being as physical fitness.

Health Benefits That Go Beyond the Court

Pickleball offers a full-body workout without putting excessive strain on muscles or joints. It can help improve:

• Cardiovascular health, by keeping you moving and your heart rate elevated
• Balance and coordination, which are especially important for injury prevention
• Muscle strength and flexibility, particularly in the legs, core, and upper body
• Mental agility, thanks to the quick thinking and strategy involved in play

Whether in your 20s or 70s, it’s never too early—or too late—to start experiencing these benefits.

Play Smart, Stay Safe

While pickleball is considered a low-impact sport, injuries can still happen, especially if you’re starting or returning to activity after a break. Common injuries include ankle sprains, shoulder strains, and overuse injuries in the knees or elbows. Warming up properly, wearing court-appropriate footwear, and gradually increasing your play time can all help reduce your risk.

If discomfort or injury is holding you back from enjoying the game, or if you reached just a little too far for that return, our sports medicine team is here to help. Our team of expert orthopaedic and sports medicine experts, including two fellowship-trained, board-certified Sports Medicine Physicians, specializes in diagnosing and treating injuries related to recreational sports like pickleball.

Ready to Get in the Game?

At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we’re proud to support the growing pickleball community through our dedicated sports medicine services, led by Dr. Ryan Riggs and our Lob Docs team. We’re here to keep you on the court and feeling your best. Visit our Lob Docs page to learn more.

Stay tuned—we’ll soon announce an exciting partnership with a local, first-of-its-kind pickleball venture; trust us, you won’t want to miss it!