They share one thing in common. They have a dazed and crazed affect on the current day trends of our world right now. The word “ Phenomenon “ could be even used. According to the Oxford Dictionary this means “ a remarkable person, thing or event “. Taylor Swift, it’s been reported, is injecting 4 billion dollars into the economy. Pickleball , is the fastest growing sport in America with 4.2 million players in 2020, up 21.3% from 2019 (21.3% !). Both this human and this sport have a massive positive effect on this world at the moment. So if you are blue about carbon taxes, interest rates, war or climate change that’s fair. You need to calm down. Turn Taylor Swift on and find a youtube video on Pickleball .
But this article is not about promoting Taylor Swift or the obvious benefits of being active in Pickleball. We are going to dive into some facts not talked about in Pickleball: training our beautiful brain. But firstly, let’s discuss what we DO know about Pickleball ? Well, it’s a mix of tennis, ping pong and squash ( I say volleyball also ).The ball has holes in it. Some people say it’s loud. It’s definitely competitive, yet also recreational. This Yin and Yang part of the sport makes it tricky for some clubs. And participants. No matter what though, its full of laughs, humility and blunders, with strong undercurrents of seriousness. It can be political. And mysterious. It’s for the young. And old. It’s like chess. Outsmarting your opponent. Strategy over strength. If you’re one of the people caught up in the “pickleballcraze” you may appreciate its physical benefits. But did you know this popular sport also provides a host of brain benefit ? It trains your brain. What ? Here’s how :
1) BRAIN BLOOD FLOW ! Running around on a pickleball court gets your heart pumping, which boosts blood flow to the brain. This increases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, enhancing overall brain health. In particular, the boosted blood flow is to the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain involved with attention, planning, and impulse control. This means better focus, decision-making, and follow-through. Typically, these traits add up to a happier, more fulfilling life.
2) CEREBELLUM ! The quick footwork and hand-eye coordination required to play pickleball activates the cerebellum, an area at the back of the brain.The cerebellum controls balance, coordination, posture, cognitive flexibility and processes speed. Increasing activity of the cerebellum boosts these important functions.
3) GRAY MATTER ! Research shows that physical activity that requires planning—such as deciding whether to smash the ball or dink it softly over the net—results in higher gray matter volume. More gray matter volume is associated with increased ability to evaluate rewards and consequences. Additionally, social engagement was also linked to more gray brain matter and less cognitive decline in a 2021 Journal of Gerontology study.
4) HIPPOCAMPUS! Getting your body moving protects the hippocampus. This part of the brain is involved in the formation of memories. One study found that aerobic exercise (like Pickleball) increases the size of the hippocampus and improves memory. Pickleball also gives your memory a workout by making players remember the score and whose serve it is. Sounds simple, but scoring in this sport isn’t as easy as it seems, and it can be a real head-scratcher for beginners.
5) NEUROCHEMICALS ! Making your heart pump and work in sports like pickleball allows more of the natural mood-enhancing Neurochemicals to circulate within our bodies. Decades of research show that physical activities such as pickleball also help alleviate depression and anxiety.
6) YOUNGER BRAIN ! I saved the best for last. Who doesn’t want a younger brain ?! The social experience and bonding that comes with playing a group sport like pickleball helps combat loneliness and boosts mood. Social connections preserve the mind and keep us feeling vibrant. The banters, frustrations and even political chatter are good for us !
So pick up a paddle ! Your muscles and bones need to move. And your brain needs to be challenged. Pickleball will enhance your physical, mental, emotional, and brain health. You won’t regret it. Crank up that Taylor Swift tune as you drive to the court. Shake it off. Appreciate trends that make people feel good. And have the best time.The News channel can wait.
