Play Smart. Move Ready. Keep Playing.
Pickleball is a fun, social way to stay active as you age—but the quick stops, starts, lunges, reaches, and directional changes place genuine physical demands on your body.
A few simple habits, from warming up and building strength and balance to choosing appropriate footwear and managing your playing load, can help you reduce preventable risks and stay ready for the game you enjoy.
Why Pickleball Injuries Happen—and What You Can Control
1. Rapid Direction Changes
Pickleball frequently requires you to move sideways, forward, backward, and diagonally. A sudden change of direction can challenge your feet, ankles, knees, hips, balance, and ability to control your body.
What You Can Do
Practice controlled lateral movement, weight shifting, step-and-hold exercises, and lower-body strengthening away from the court. Start with movements you can control rather than trying to immediately match the speed of experienced players.
Video Demonstration: Pickleball Injury Prevention
Watch our complete video guide for visual movement demonstrations and court safety tips.