BENEFITS OF RESISTANCE TRAINING
FOR OLDER ADULT PICKLEBALL PLAYERS

SUMMARY

Pickleball is now the fastest growing sport in the US. Unfortunately this expansion has been accompanied by rising game-related injuries – particularly for older adult players.

For example, a recent major survey reported a significant increase in pickleball-related injuries between 2013 and 2022. Most injuries occurred in those aged 65 to 80 years and resulted from a fall, typically from lunging, overreaching or quick changes of direction.

Research has shown that the capacity to safely perform these movements relies on adequate levels of strength and power, particularly in the lower limbs. In support of this, a recent study found that senior Pickleball players taking part in a multi-faceted strength-based exercise program significantly improved game performance compared to a non-exercise group.

The routines prescribed in this study consisted of resistance band and body weight exercises similar to those offered in our Pickleball Power program.

Guided by the research summarized above, resistance training is a major component of MPR Pickleball's multi-factorial training approach to support safe movement and fall prevention in Pickleball: the 3 Ps.

PREPARATION – PREVENTION – PERCEPTION

MPR Pickleball members who follow our program will notice strength and mobility gains in a matter of weeks – improvements that translate over time to improved game performance.