Playing Pickleball Works Wonders for Parkinson’s Patients, According to Study

Once upon a time, pickleball was looked upon as a novelty—a quirky blend of tennis, badminton, and ping pong that was best played to pass time and have fun. But in recent years, pickleball has exploded into the mainstream as the fastest-growing sport in the world, so much so that various parks, gyms, and retirement communities now echo with the rhythmic pop of paddles striking perforated balls.

This meteoric rise is no fluke. It’s unsurprising either. With easy-to-learn mechanics, a smaller court, and a deeply social nature, pickleball has become more than just a game; it has become a movement and is growing at an exponential rate.

Expect pickleball to continue its rapid ascent thanks to its universal appeal. Whether you’re 18 or 80, athletic or just getting active, there’s a place on a pickleball court for you—along with a community ready to engage you in fun games and support you every step of the way.

Pickleball is even great for seniors, in particular, owing to the smaller pickleball court that reduces the need for excessive running and sweeping side-to-side movements. This makes the sport gentle on joints and is, in fact, a key factor that draws in older adults into playing pickleball. Seniors who once thought their active days were behind them are now finding renewed strength, coordination, and joy through this sport.

Now, more and more studies are determining that pickleball may be doing more than just keeping people fit. In addition to that benefit, the sport is evidently showing real promise as therapy for those living with Parkinson’s disease. In fact, according to an article from Herald/Review, recent research suggests that patients participating in pickleball-based programs have experienced improvements in balance, coordination, and cognitive engagement.

The article stated that therapists in southern Arizona have observed that the rhythmic movements, strategic play, and social interactions of pickleball are able to help Parkinson’s patients reconnect with both mind and body. In addition, the sport’s predictable yet flexible structure gives players with Parkinson’s a unique kind of freedom: movement with purpose and joy.

What’s more, the benefits of pickleball to Parkinson’s patients go beyond physical therapy. The laughter, the camaraderie, the shared victories also contribute to improved mental health, reduced feelings of isolation, and a greater sense of autonomy. In some cases, pickleball lets people living with Parkinson’s the chance to “feel alive” again—and this great feeling is sometimes enough to create an impact, however incremental or minimal.

So, whether you’re looking for a fun way to stay active or a new avenue to pursue your fitness journey, consider picking up a paddle. Pickleball isn’t just for the young or the competitive; it’s for anyone ready to move, connect, and thrive.

Find a court near you, bring a friend, and discover the healing power of play.