Tennis vs Pickleball: Which Sport Is Better for a Longer, Healthier Life?
Tennis players tend to live longer. That is what two large studies found. But what about pickleball, the fastest-growing racquet sport in the country? Here is what the research shows, what it doesn’t, and how to choose the sport that suits your body.
What the Research Says About Racquet Sports
Great Britain (80,306 adults): Racquet sports were linked to a 47% lower risk of death from any cause, compared with 28% for swimming, 27% for aerobics, and 15% for cycling. This study compared each sport with not playing it.
Copenhagen (8,577 adults, up to 25 years): Tennis was linked to 9.7 extra years of life expectancy, badminton to 6.2, soccer to 4.7, and jogging to 3.2, all versus sedentary people.
Both studies are observational, so they can’t prove racquet sports cause longer life. Researchers noted that these sports combine short bursts of effort, whole-body movement, and social interaction.
Does Pickleball Count?
No major longevity study has measured pickleball directly. Neither study above included it, so we can’t say pickleball adds a specific number of years.
What we can say is that pickleball shares the traits researchers highlighted: short bursts of activity, constant movement, hand-eye coordination, and a strong social element. That makes it a reasonable bet for staying active and good news for the many people who already play. The case for pickleball is plausible, not proven.
Tennis vs. Pickleball: Side by Side
| Comparison | Tennis | Pickleball |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity Research | Linked to 9.7 extra years (Copenhagen) and part of the racquet sports group with 47% lower mortality (Great Britain). | Not measured directly in major longevity studies. |
| Pattern of Activity | Short bursts of effort with rests between points. | Short bursts of effort with rests between points. |
| Movement | Whole-body movement, with longer sprints across a large court. | Whole-body movement, with quick steps across a smaller court. |
| Social Element | Singles or doubles and club play. | Mostly doubles, with a strong social culture. |
| Learning Curve | Takes longer to rally consistently. | Easier for beginners to start playing. |
| Physical Demand | Higher, with more running and a heavier swing. | Moderate, though still demanding on the knees, shoulders, and back. |
| Best Fit | People who want a higher-intensity workout. | People who want an accessible, social way to stay active. |
Which Should You Choose?
The best sport for longevity is the one you will keep playing. Consistent, moderate activity gets you most of the benefit. If you love tennis, the evidence is encouraging. If pickleball is what gets you onto the court three times a week, that is a strong start, even though the research hasn’t caught up yet.
Protect Your Body While You Play
Both sports put stress on knees, shoulders, elbows, and backs. A few habits help:
- Warm up for five to ten minutes before play.
- Build leg, core, and shoulder strength between games.
- Rest when something hurts instead of playing through it.
- Get lingering pain checked early.
Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have a heart condition or joint problems.
Keep playing for years to come. Book a movement assessment with OrthoWell Physical Therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tennis help you live longer?
Studies in Britain and Denmark linked tennis and other racquet sports with lower mortality and longer life expectancy. These are observational findings, not proof of cause.
Does pickleball help you live longer?
No study has measured it directly. Pickleball shares the movement and social traits linked to longevity in other racquet sports, so it is a reasonable way to stay active.
Is tennis or pickleball better for your health?
Tennis has the research behind it. Researchers haven’t studied pickleball for longevity yet, but it is easier to start and keeps people moving and connected.
How many years can tennis add to your life?
The Copenhagen study linked tennis to 9.7 extra years of life expectancy compared with sedentary people. This is an association, not a guarantee.
How do I avoid pickleball and tennis injuries?
Warm up, strengthen your legs, core, and shoulders, and see a physical therapist if pain lingers.