Local tennis community highlights health benefits of the sport during National Tennis Month
GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - For many, playing tennis may only be a fun hobby or a form of exercise, but there’s more to the sport than just physical benefits.
25.7 million people play tennis nationwide, according to the U.S. Tennis Association, or USTA.
Like many sports, the USTA reports that tennis can improve hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and physical endurance, but the National Library of Medicine says the sport can also strengthen your brain, resulting in preventing cognitive decline and Dementia.
Karen Barondes, a Baywood Racquet Club tennis player, says, “I picked it up when I was 35. I’ve played for over 20 years. I love the challenge of constantly learning. I love being outdoors. I’ve met some incredible people. I love the strategies in doubles, and it’s super fun, athletic, keeps you on your toes.”
As players and coaches celebrate May as National Tennis Month, the tennis community is reminding people of the health benefits of the sport, both physical and mental.
Kevin Brandalik, Baywood Racquet Club Tennis Director, told WITN, “You get the cardio that everyone wants. People are walking and running. I think also, one of the big things that people forget is the emotional and mental side. You’re interacting with people; you’re working with a teammate.”
“It’s just a fun game and a thinking game, even though a lot of people may not think so,” Barondes also says.
The National Library of Medicine reports that more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, and that number is expected to reach 78 to 139 million by 2030 and 2050.
While the NLM says there is no curative treatment for dementia, the NLM credits physical activity as a preventive measure, with tennis cited to boost brain health.
Brandalik says, “They say that nowadays, a new study came out that said tennis is a good sport to offset Alzheimer’s and even some mental illness, which is a wonderful thing. From dealing with things on your own on the court when there’s no coach with you, dealing with adversity, how to persevere, how to set goals, there’s no better sport.”
Regardless of the stage of life you’re in, the tennis community is encouraging others to give it a swing.
“It’s truly a family sport. you can play from 5 to 95,” Brandalik told WITN.
Barondes also says, “It’s a fun time, and I hope to be able to do it for another 20+ years and beyond.”
There are lessons for all ages across the East. Some include Baywood Racquet Club, River Birch Tennis Center, and Greenville Recreation and Parks.
To find the National Library of Medicine’s full article on tennis and Alzheimer’s, visit here.
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