- Blog
Game On: How Pickleball Helps You Stay Active & Healthy
Posted on 01-28-2026 in Pickleball, Sports Medicine, Lob Docs, Injury Prevention & Sports Injury by Dr. Ryan Riggs
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!
Check out some of our related posts:
Healthy Aging: Resources for Lifelong Bone & Joint Health
September is Healthy Aging Month, an observance dedicated to promoting the positive aspects of growing older and encouraging proactive steps toward maintaining long-term health. In its 33rd year, Healthy Aging Month inspires adults of all ages to focus on lifestyle habits that support vitality, independence and overall well-being.
Ischiofemoral Impingement of the Hip
Ischiofemoral Impingement (IFI) is a lesser-known but often painful condition affecting the hip joint. This condition arises when the ischium (a bone in the pelvis) and the femur (the thigh bone) come into abnormal contact, which compresses soft tissues surrounding the hip. While the discomfort typically manifests in the buttocks or groin, particularly when moving the hip or walking, it can also present as low back pain, making it challenging to diagnose early. Additional symptoms and causes include discomfort during prolonged sitting, reduced range of motion, stiffness and/or tightness in the hip area.
Arthritis Awareness Month: Resources for Relief & Education
May is Arthritis Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase public understanding of arthritis and its impact on millions of lives. Established by the Arthritis Foundation, this national observance highlights the importance of early diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing research to improve the quality of life for those with arthritis.