Would you do it?

I found myself at StatMed recently (for something unrelated to pickleball). Imagine my surprise when I was told by a staff member that they had seen numerous pickleball injures - everything from pulled muscles, stitches, and more!

When you don't warm up you are setting yourself up for an injury.

Picture this ... You plan to play at a particular time and you arrive at the courts. You remembered your water, your visor, your safety glasses, and most importantly, your paddle. The anticipation of getting started is overwhelming. The noise of the balls being hit by a paddle, the familiar sound of your playmates laughing, calling you over to play. Would you do it?

I know what I'd do ... I'd grab my paddle and hit the courts! Yep, wrong answer! It is so critical to get your muscles warmed up before you hit the courts. Often you'll have an opportunity to dink for a few minutes, but the urge to get that first point takes over and there you are - on the courts playing. 

We all have five minutes, right? Do the right thing and get your body warmed up before you play. Your body will thank you!

The first video says 'for seniors' but it works for everyone and a great place to start!