USA Pickleball
Health & Safety Hub
Pickleball is gentler on the body than most other sports. However, like any sport, playing the game carries the risk of injury. Please consider the following pickleball safety tips to minimize your risk and maximize your court time.
Court Awareness
In this video, Liz and Sime offer tips to improve court awareness. It’s such an essential part of pickleball safety, but it’s easy to forget. Safety is critical when playing pickleball, and these tips will help you stay safe, so you can spend more time on the court.
Pre-Game Prep
Watch Liz and Sime break down key safety tips to avoid injuries and maximize your performance. Discover how proper pre-game preparation can make all the difference to help keep you in top shape and make your game more enjoyable. Stay prepared, play smart, and have fun!
Other Helpful Tips
Stretch & Warm Up
Following the warmup period, begin a stretching program. This will increase your flexibility, allowing for better performance and reducing the likelihood of injuries.
Improve Your Balance
Could you work on improving your balance and spacial orientation? Balance can be improved with yoga and strength training. By increasing muscle, you can prevent falls and other serious injuries.
Eye Protection & Shoes
Proper eye protection is highly recommended for all players. Comfortable court shoes are also a must; sneakers or running shoes do not supply the right kind of support for the side-to-side action inherent in pickleball.
Sunscreen & Hat
When playing outdoors, wearing sunscreen and a hat is highly recommended to protect you from sun rays and reduce glare.
Hydration & Electrolytes
Be sure to drink water, replenish electrolytes and eat appropriate snacks. You need a balance of electrolytes and food to prevent dehydration. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, fatigue, an irregular heartbeat, and fainting.
Cool Down & Stretch
After playing, you may want to stretch or take a slow walk home. This will help lower your body temperature and bring your heart rate slowly back to normal.