Back on the Pickleball Court… and Why I’m Calling It My Midlife Cheat Code

I finally got back to pickleball this week now that I’m back in Florida. Other than the two clinics I did during the month I was in New Jersey, it had been a long break. Getting back on the court with the girls felt so good. Not just physically, but mentally.

6 reasons why pickleball is good for midlife women

1. Low impact, high movement

You get cardio without punishing your joints.

2. Brain and body connection

The quick reactions and decision-making keep your mind sharp.

3. Strengthens key muscles

Hips, glutes, core, and shoulder stabilizers all get challenged.

4. Built-in mood booster

Movement plus laughter plus friends is basically natural serotonin.

5. Community matters

You don’t just “work out” you belong somewhere.

6. Fun is the secret weapon

When you enjoy it, you actually stick with it.

Studies show that racket sports are linked to longer life expectancy, not just because of calories burned, but because of the combination of movement, coordination, and social connection.

There is something powerful about a form of movement that lets you sweat, compete, laugh, and fill your soul all at the same time. Movement doesn’t have to be serious to be effective. It just has to be repeated.

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Paddle recommendation

In case you’re looking for a good racket at a decent price, I’m including a link to the one I’ve been using. I started with the $80–$90 ones from Dick’s and they kept falling apart. They were fine for learning, but not great.

A little while back, I decided to invest in a better paddle that’s still under $200. Not crazy expensive, but solid and I’ve really been enjoying it. The conversation came up again recently with friends who wanted to know what to buy, and this is the one I recommend.

HEAD Gravity Pickleball Paddles

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