Surprising Benefits of Racquet Sports
Discover the Benefits of Racquet Sports
Racquet sports, which include tennis, badminton, squash, and racquetball, are not only exciting both for leisure or competition, but also offer many (some even surprising) benefits.
Let's take a deeper dive into why racquets sports are such great sports for women of all ages as well as tips on fashion and accessories to have you playing in comfort and style.
Today you will discover:
- Health benefits of racquet sports
- Racquet sports fashion
- How to find the right accessories
What are the Health Benefits of Racquet Sports?
Let's begin with the health benefits. Racquet sports provide an excellent cardiovascular workout, offering both aerobic and anaerobic benefits. These sports combine endurance with short bursts of intense activity, a combination that is highly beneficial for heart and vascular health.
Beyond the cardiovascular advantages, sports like tennis, pickleball, squash, and table tennis also enhance physical and cognitive capacities. The physical and mental coordination required improves balance, agility, reflexes, concentration, and mental alertness. Additionally, they engage nearly every muscle group, including the thighs, back, shoulders, arms, and abs, helping to maintain muscle mass and strength over the long term. The high energy expenditure in racquet sports also contributes to maintaining a healthy body weight, with a tennis match burning between 400 to 600 calories per hour.
Are Sports Such as Tennis and Pickleball Good for Older Adults?
Yes. "In many ways, racquet sports like tennis, pickleball, squash, badminton, racquetball, Ping-Pong, and other variations are the ideal exercise for many older adults. Besides offering a good cardiovascular workout, they can help with both upper- and lower-body strength at one time. They can be played at any age, can be modified to fit most fitness levels, and do not involve a lot of equipment" says Vijay A. Daryanani, a physical therapist and personal trainer with Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Outpatient. "Most of our lives are spent moving forward, and that includes our exercise. Racquet sports force you to move both back and forth and side to side. This helps improve balance and weight shifting, which can lower risk of falls."
Racquet Sports and Life Expectancy
It turns out that racquet sports are not only fun, but they have long been positively associated with life expectancy. Fascinatingly, those sports roundly beat out activities that we typically associate with long-term heart health-like cycling, swimming, jogging and calisthenics. According to research, picking up a racquet might be among the best decisions a person can make for their health, according to studies that have found a correlation between racquet sports and a reduction in all-cause mortality, and a 10 year increase in life!
Why is that? Sports like tennis, pickleball and badminton “inherently involve more social interaction and were associated with the best longevity.”
Time and time again, longevity experts have stressed the importance of (a) moving and (b) maintaining a close-knit group of friends. Combining the two is longevity bingo. In the case of tennis, pickleball or badminton, aging athletes have long had a regular “third place” to go to (which refers to a regular gathering place outside of home or work). A place they can chop it up with compatriots and have a good time.
Racquet Sports Fashions
Whether you’re serving looks on or off the court, the best dresses of the season can go from country-club chic to street style favourites in one fell swoop, forehand, or backhand.
Are Pickleball Outfits the Same as Tennis?
Although pickleball outfits are similar to tennis clothing, there is a variety of pickleball-specific print skorts, tops, and dresses. Open Court is proud to introduce a brand designed by pickleballers, for pickleballers. Pickletini’s signature inverted pockets are designed to easily tuck away an extra pickleball without restricting movement, while the sweat-wicking material will keep you cool on the court.
Importance of Using the Right Accessories for Racquet Sports
Hats and visors are important on the court to protect players from the sun's harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and prevent sweat from dripping into their eyes. They also help maintain visibility on the court and provide comfort by shading the head and face. The right hat or visor also completes the outfit and makes a statement!
Racquet Sport Bags
Racquet sport bags are essential for protecting equipment, organizing gear, and ensuring a more comfortable and convenient experience for players. They provide dedicated storage for racquets, balls, clothing, and accessories, keeping everything secure and readily accessible. And there are many different styles of pickleball bags and tennis bags to choose from. Think Royln's designer pickleball and tennis bags, with snap-off racquet covers, are designed for women who move seamlessly from the court to everyday street style.
You’ve come a long way, baby!
Women's racquet ball fashion has evolved significantly from restrictive, long skirts to modern, high-performance attire. Initially, attire was designed for modesty and practicality, with long skirts and corsets limiting movement. Today, players prioritize comfort, flexibility, and performance through lightweight, breathable fabrics and innovative technology.
Play for Health, Style, and Joy
From boosting heart health and longevity to building community and confidence, racquet sports offer far more than just a good workout. Whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time or you're a seasoned tennis enthusiast, there’s something empowering about stepping onto the court—especially when you're dressed for both performance and self-expression.
As more women discover the benefits of racquet sports, one thing becomes clear: this isn't just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. So why not serve up some joy, connect with others, and stay active in a way that’s fun, fashionable, and fulfilling?
Ready to play your way to better health?
For latest trends in women’s, tennis, pickleball and active lifestyle fashions, visit Open Court in-store or online.