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Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America. Have You Joined the Craze?
Maintaining our physical and cognitive health becomes increasingly important as we age. One fun and effective way to do this is through pickleball. This fast-paced, engaging sport has exploded in popularity across generations. It can provide many physical and mental benefits that align well with AARP's six pillars of brain health. There are plenty of places to try it right here in Cheyenne, including some free upcoming AARP Wyoming-led activities! Let's explore how playing pickleball supports the six pillars and helps improve overall health.
1. Exercise Regularly
Pickleball is an excellent form of physical exercise, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. The sport requires agility, coordination, and endurance, all of which help improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. The constant movement on the court—whether it’s quick lateral shifts, short sprints, or powerful swings—helps players develop muscle tone, burn calories, and improve heart health. Regular physical exercise is key to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which can affect overall health.
2. Be Social
Pickleball is a social game, often played in doubles, mixed doubles, or groups, which fosters relationships and social interaction. Maintaining strong social connections is one of the most important ways to keep your mind engaged as you age. The camaraderie of playing pickleball allows individuals to interact with others, develop friendships, and create a sense of community. Socializing with others has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and decrease the risk of cognitive decline. The conversations and teamwork required in pickleball also stimulate the mind, keeping it engaged while fostering a sense of belonging.
3. Engage Your Brain
Pickleball isn’t just physically demanding; it also provides significant mental stimulation. The sport requires strategy, quick decision-making, and anticipation. Players must think on their feet, predicting their opponent's next move while considering their own positioning and shot selection. Playing pickleball exercises the mind, requiring players to stay alert and make split-second decisions. Cognitive engagement improves memory, concentration, and mental agility.
4. Manage Stress
Physical activities, including pickleball, are well-known for reducing stress levels and promoting mental well-being. Exercise, especially something as enjoyable as pickleball, triggers the release of endorphins—your body's natural mood enhancers. This makes pickleball a great way to improve physical health and a wonderful method for reducing anxiety, improving mood, and even combating depression.
5. Get Restorative Sleep
Pickleball is an intense, full-body workout, and regular physical exercise is one of the best ways to promote healthy, restorative sleep. Playing pickleball, particularly in the evening or after a long day, can help regulate the body’s natural circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality. Sleep is critical for memory consolidation and removing toxins from the brain. By engaging in a physically demanding activity like pickleball, you encourage deeper, more restful sleep, which in turn helps protect your overall health and supports mental clarity the following day.
6. Eat Right
While pickleball alone doesn’t directly relate to diet, the lifestyle that supports playing a physically demanding sport often includes a focus on healthy eating. To perform well and recover effectively, pickleball players must pay attention to their nutrition, ensuring they get enough protein, vitamins, and hydration. A well-balanced diet in antioxidants, healthy fats, and lean proteins contributes to better overall health. When players fuel their bodies properly, they can enhance their pickleball performance and, ultimately, their well-being.
Conclusion: The Holistic Health Benefits of Pickleball
Pickleball is more than just a fun recreational sport; it’s a comprehensive exercise that benefits the body and mind. By incorporating pickleball into your routine, you’re engaging in a physical activity that fosters social connections, reduces stress, stimulates mental acuity, and contributes to better sleep. These benefits make pickleball an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay active. Why not grab a paddle and hit the pickleball court? It’s a fantastic way to stay engaged and have fun while prioritizing your health.
Consult with Your Doctor
Before starting any new physical activity, including pickleball, it's important to consult with your doctor to ensure it's safe for you, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns.
Places to Play Pickleball in Cheyenne, WY
Whether you're a seasoned player or brand new to the sport, Cheyenne offers a variety of places to play pickleball—indoors and outdoors and at every price point. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you find your next game:
Free Public Courts
City of Cheyenne Pickleball Courts at Lions Park
- Location: 4603 Lions Park Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Details: 8 dedicated outdoor pickleball courts
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Hours: Dawn to dusk (weather permitting)
Martin Luther King Jr. Park:
- Courts: 4 dedicated outdoor pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets.
- Access and Cost: The courts are free to use and operate on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not required.
- Location: Ames Ave & Martin Luther King Ct, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
United Nations Park:
- Courts: 8 outdoor hard courts with permanent lines.
- Nets: Players need to bring their own nets.
- Access and Cost: The courts are public and free to use.
- Location: 906 Madison Ave & 8th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
- For reserving courts, the City of Cheyenne allows reservations at $20 per hour. For a reservation or more information, contact the Parks Division at (307) 637-6423.
Indoor & Paid Options
The Picklr – Cheyenne
- Location: 3741 E. Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Website: thepicklr.com/cheyenne-wyoming
- Courts: 9 professional-grade, climate-controlled indoor courts
- Membership Options:
- First visit is free—call to schedule
- Free "Learn to Play"—call to schedule
- Individual memberships start at ~$79/month
- Family, youth, senior, first responders, military, veteran and teacher plans available
- Drop-in Play: Available—check website or call for current rates
- League play, clinics, tournaments
- Paddle demos and pro shop
- Spectator lounge and member events
- Contact: (307) 209-9519
Youth Activity & Community Center (YACC at the Ice & Events Center)
- Location: 1530 W Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Cost: $3 per day or $25 for a 10-visit punch card
- Schedule: Mondays & Wednesdays: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Fridays: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Contact: (307) 637-6423
Cheyenne Family YMCA
- Location: 1426 E Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001
- Cost: Free for members; day passes available for non-members
- Courts: Indoor gymnasium with scheduled open play
- Schedule: Varies—call ahead or check their online calendar
- Contact: (307) 634-9622
- Notes: Offers group lessons, beginner sessions, and recreational play.
Laramie County Community College (LCCC Recreation & Athletics Center)
- Location: 1400 E College Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82007
- Access: Free for students and staff; public access available with pass
- Contact: (307) 778-1234
- Notes: Indoor facility. Availability may vary, so call ahead to confirm court times for community use.
The BEAST Facility
- Drop-In Pickleball:
- Days: Monday through Friday
- Time: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
- Fee: $5.00 per session
- Pickleball Punch Passes: 10 visits for $50.00 (includes one free visit)
- For the most current information on pickleball schedules and rates, contact the BEAST Facility directly at 307-631-6320.
Upcoming Events
AARP Open House at The Picklr: Join us for our upcoming open house on Sunday, June 22. Free play, coaching, and prizes will be provided! events.aarp.org/picklraarp
AARP Getting Started with Pickleball Video Series: Stay tuned for our six-part video live instructional video series with The Picklr this August. You can ask for tips and tricks during the Zoom presentation. Check aarp.org/wyevents to sign up. Keyword “Pickleball.”
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