Racket sports are gaining attention for the potential benefits they offer to the health and cognitive function of older adults. This perspective is echoed by experts at Northeastern University in the United States, including noted researcher Art Kramer, who has explored how active play can influence aging outcomes.
Large-scale research has linked racquet sports to lower overall mortality risk. One expansive study tracked around 80,000 participants and found that engaging in racquet-based activities correlated with a decreased rate of death from any cause. Further investigations into tennis, table tennis, and badminton suggested that players in these sports tended to outlive participants who focused on cycling, football, running, or swimming. In a comparison with sedentary individuals, badminton was associated with an average life extension of about 6.2 years, while tennis showed an average boost of roughly 9.7 years.
Experts caution that these results do not establish a direct cause-and-effect link between racquet sports and longer life. A plausible explanation is that any regular physical activity benefits cardiovascular health, which in turn supports brain health and overall vitality. Social interaction is often an intrinsic part of racquet games, adding another dimension to mental well-being. Yet another possibility is that the observed advantages reflect healthier baselines among those who choose racquet sports rather than a direct consequence of the activities themselves. In other words, selection bias could partially explain the associations seen in the data.
Doctors emphasize that any form of physical activity is beneficial for health. Among racquet sports, pickleball stands out for older adults as a balanced option. The game blends elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis in a way that discourages excessive exertion while still delivering meaningful cardiovascular effort. Its practical appeal lies in a moderate pace, lower injury risk, and a social, approachable format that can fit into many daily routines. For communities and retirement settings, pickleball often serves as a gateway activity that encourages ongoing participation and skill development without overtaxing joints or stamina.
Historically, discussions about aging, lifestyle, and longevity have included warnings about the limits of what any single activity can deliver. The consensus today centers on consistency, variety, and safety. A well-rounded routine may include racquet play, light-to-moderate aerobic work, strength-building exercises, and balance practices. Such a combination supports mobility, functional independence, and mental sharpness across the later years. As health guidance continues to evolve, the takeaway remains clear: staying active is a key contributor to a healthier, longer life for older adults. Studies continue to refine our understanding, but the practical message is straightforward: incorporate enjoyable, sustainable activity into daily life to support both body and brain. [citation]
In the broader conversation about aging well, racquet sports occupy a distinct niche. They offer aerobic benefits, opportunities for social connection, and a framework that can adapt to different fitness levels. For seniors in North America, programs and clubs that emphasize accessible, low-risk play can help sustain participation over time. The ultimate aim is not just longer life but a richer, more engaged daily experience—where movement, community, and purpose harmonize to support aging with vitality. [citation]