A pickleball craze has spread across America, especially among older individuals and non-athletes. It gets people off the couch and offers socialization for those who join pickleball teams and clubs. Furthermore, this new "sport" has been a sales boom for retailers.
Though I have never played the game and have only been a casual observer, pickleball appears to offer limited exercise for most participants; it certainly cannot be compared to tennis. While increasing the risk of sore muscles and sprained ankles for otherwise sedentary individuals, I doubt that it yields significant aerobic benefits.
I applaud the effort to get some exercise and acknowledge the importance of socialization but a good walk is likely better for your health. Too often, we equate exercise with organized sports and special equipment.
