Tag Archive for: beginners pickleball

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Why You Should Get Your DUPR Number

DUPR is a pickleball rating system for everyone.

If you’ve been bitten by the pickleball bug (and let’s be real, who hasn’t?), you’ve probably wondered, “How good am I, really? And how can I tell?”

Enter DUPR, the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating, a new system that’s about to make your pickleball life way more exciting.

What Exactly is a DUPR Number?

DUPR (rhymes with super) was invented in 2021 by Steve Kuhn, the founder of Major League Pickleball (MLP). The system was designed to be the most accurate and inclusive global rating system for pickleball players, providing a dynamic and real-time reflection of a player’s skill level across various match formats.

A DUPR number is a rating that reflects your skill level in pickleball. It ranges from 2.000 to 8.000 and is determined by factors such as the points you win, match outcomes, and the types of games you play.

DUPR is a pickleball rating system for everyone.

DUPR is a pickleball rating system for everyone. Photo from DUPR.com.

Here’s an example of how the DUPR rating system works:

Let’s say you and your partner are rated 4.0 and up against a team rated 4.5. The DUPR algorithm calculates an expected value (EV) for how many points your team should score — let’s say it’s 7 points. Even if you lose the match with a score of 9-11, you’ve outperformed your expected value by scoring more than 7 points.

Cool, right?

As a result, your DUPR rating could increase, even though you lost, because the system recognizes that you played better than anticipated against stronger opponents. This way, DUPR rewards your performance, not just the final outcome.

So, What’s the Big Deal About DUPR?

DUPR isn’t just another rating system — it’s the rating system. 

Imagine knowing exactly how you stack up, not just at your local court but compared to players worldwide.

But here’s the best part: DUPR isn’t static. It updates in real-time based on your latest matches. Play well, and your rating goes up; have an off day, and it might dip—but that just gives you more motivation to get back out there and improve.

Plus, it’s completely gender-neutral and only cares about your court performance, as we showed in the example above. Your DUPR number isn’t just about winning and losing — it’s about how well you played.

Knowing your DUPR number helps you match up with players better.

Knowing your DUPR number helps you match up with players better.

Why It’s Awesome to Know Your DUPR Number

Let’s talk about why DUPR makes pickleball even more fun.

First, it creates fair and competitive matchups, a game-changer for tournaments, round robins, and casual play alike. Gone are the days of mismatched games where one team steamrolls the other. DUPR ensures that players with similar skills face off, making every match more exciting and challenging.

And if you’re the kind of player who loves seeing progress, DUPR is perfect for you. Knowing that every point and every match can impact your rating adds a whole new level of intensity. You’ll hustle for every ball and fight for every point because it all counts.

Plus, finding similarly skilled partners for more competitive games becomes a breeze — DUPR takes the guesswork out of matchmaking, so you can spend less time coordinating and more time playing.

Check out the DUPR website for more info. If you don’t have your DUPR number yet, you can easily sign up for one here or download their app.

It's simple to get your DUPR number. Photo from DUPR.com.

It’s simple to get your DUPR number. Photo from DUPR.com.

Get Your DUPR Number at the DUPRXpress Round-robin

Want to get your DUPR number up and running (and have a bunch of fun doing it)?

Great news — IPOP is hosting the DUPRXpress Round-robin from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 21st, 2024, at Robert Burnaby Park in Burnaby, BC, and it’s the perfect chance to get your DUPR number!

The DUPR-express pickleball tournament,

The DUPR-express pickleball tournament,

And, of course, beginners are welcome (the great thing about DUPR is that it takes your skill level into account, so your rating is more about how well you played relative to your competition than just wins and losses)!

This event isn’t just about fun and competition — it’s also a BC Children’s Hospital Foundation/Focus Humanitarian Assistance fundraiser and a BBQ to get to know your fellow pickleballers better.

  • The round-robin fee is just $40 (includes a BBQ lunch and to support Focus Humanitarian Assistance and the BC Children’s Hospital)
  • Everyone plays mixed doubles.
  • We’ll enter the scores to get your DUPR number for you at the event (after you join IPOP’s DUPR club, which we’ll send instructions on).

Sound like a good time? It will be!

If you want to sing up to play in this round-robin, click this link to the IPOP website and follow the instructions.

But hurry up and register because there are limited spots available.

Conclusion

DUPR isn’t just about numbers — it’s about making pickleball more enjoyable for everyone. It levels the playing field, encourages continuous improvement, and brings players together in a global community. Whether playing for fun or looking to climb the ranks, DUPR adds a layer of excitement and fairness that’s hard to beat.

So, why wait? Dive into DUPR and see how this game-changing system can elevate your pickleball experience. Click here to register for your DUPR account today. It’s fast, free, and easy. And if you register for the DUPRxpress, we’ll send you a link to join IPOP’s DUPR club. See you there!

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Dill-ightful Benefits: Why Pickleball is Perfect for Youth

Youth Summer Slam

Are you ready to discover the secret weapon for keeping kids active, happy, and healthy?

Spoiler alert: it’s pickleball!

While pickleball might be the darling of retirees, pickleball is also making waves with the younger crowd. This fast-paced, ridiculously fun game is perfect for young players looking to boost their health and well-being.

Keep reading to discover why pickleball is the ultimate game-changer for getting teens out of the house this summer (and all year round!)—and no, the kids don’t need to love pickles to play!

Pickleball is fantastic for youth!

Youth Pickleball is Growing Rapidly

It’s not just adults and older folk who are getting hooked on pickleball anymore; kids and teens are picking up paddles in droves, and that’s such a good thing!

Here’s why the sport is gaining serious momentum among the younger crowd:

  • Fastest Growth Rate: According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), players under 24 had the fastest growth rate of 21% from 2020 to 2021. That’s a lot of new young paddlers! (source)
  • Youth Participation Soars: In 2021, the 18-34 age group made up 18.5% of total pickleball participants, making it the second-largest age bracket after those 55 and older. (source)
  • Younger Players on the Rise: The average age of pickleball players dropped from 41 in 2020 to 38.1 in 2021. This means more young people are hitting the courts! (source)
  • Largest Demographic in 2023: By 2023, a whopping 28.8% of pickleball players in the US were between 18 and 34 years old, making this the largest age demographic in the sport. Who knew pickleball could be this trendy? (source)
  • Massive Overall Participation: The Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) reported that 36.5 million people played at least once in 2023. That’s a lot of dinks and smashes, with many of them coming from youth and young adults! (source)

The bottom line is that pickleball is all about accessibility, the social aspect, and a lower barrier to entry compared to other sports. Plus, more schools and community programs are jumping on the pickleball bandwagon every day, boosting youth participation even more.

Physical Health Benefits of Pickleball for Youth

Kids must be active to be healthy, not glued to their phones or staring at a TV.

One of the most significant advantages of pickleball is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. The game provides an intense cardio workout, which helps lower risk factors like high cholesterol and blood pressure.

Plus, unlike many high-impact sports, pickleball is gentle on growing joints and muscles, making it less likely for someone to get injured (but injuries do occur…) and ideal for youth of all abilities. Thus, everyone can participate and benefit.

Additionally, pickleball enhances several key physical skills through its dynamic movements:

  • Balance and Coordination: Improves balance and hand-eye coordination.
  • Agility and Flexibility: Enhances agility and flexibility, making players more adept at quick movements.
  • Strength and Stamina: Builds strength and stamina, including heart and lung health, through its cardio-intensive nature.

Pickleball’s physical health benefits make it an excellent choice for a sport for youth to get involved in, contributing to their overall physical fitness and development.

The great thing about pickleball is that it’s fantastic for people of all ages to enjoy!

IPOP and BC Lung recently hosted the BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic on June 22, 2024, to raise funds for BC Lung’s health initiatives and promote the health benefits of playing pickleball. People of all ages and skill levels came out for a fun day of competition and raising money for a good cause!

To learn more about pickleball’s health benefits, check out our blog on what we have planned for the future and the cool video below.

Mental Health Benefits of Pickleball for Youth

Pickleball isn’t just good for the muscles, heart, and lungs.

The mental health benefits of pickleball are equally impressive. Playing the game can significantly decrease stress levels and improve coping abilities. The fast-paced nature of pickleball requires quick decision-making, which enhances focus and concentration. This mental stimulation benefits young minds, helping them stay sharp and attentive.

Additionally, pickleball is a highly social sport that facilitates making friends and forming social connections, which is crucial for youth development. The interactive, team-based nature of the game encourages camaraderie and teamwork. The physical activity in pickleball releases endorphins, boosting mood and promoting overall mental well-being.

A study of 51 junior pickleball players aged 8-18 found that playing more frequently was associated with greater perceived mental health benefits. Pickleball’s social aspects and inclusivity make it appealing to youth who are not drawn to traditional sports. Even novice players can experience these benefits, highlighting the sport’s universal appeal.

Here are the key mental health benefits of pickleball for youth:

  • Stress Reduction: Decreases stress levels and improves coping abilities.
  • Enhanced Focus and Concentration: Requires quick decision-making, which enhances focus and concentration.
  • Social Connections: Facilitates making friends and forming social connections.
  • Mood Improvement: Releases endorphins, boosting mood and promoting overall mental well-being.

Pickleball offers a supportive and engaging environment that fosters mental health and social development, making it an excellent choice for youth.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

For our money, one of the great things about pickleball is its inclusivity. Not every teen can play hockey, football, basketball, etc., but pickleball is different. Shoes, a paddle, a ball, and a net, and you are ready to go. You don’t have to be a star athlete or even in particularly good shape to enjoy it!

Pickleball is accessible to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players, and the people who play usually offer a welcoming environment to everyone, including youth, of all backgrounds and abilities. This inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy and benefit from the game.

Here are the key aspects of pickleball’s inclusivity and accessibility:

  • All Skill Levels: Pickleball is designed to be easy to learn, allowing beginners to pick it up quickly while also offering enough complexity to challenge advanced players. This makes it ideal for a diverse group of participants (source: Renown Health).
  • Low-Impact Exercise: The sport is low-impact, which means it’s gentle on the joints and suitable for young players who are still growing. This reduces the risk of injury compared to high-impact sports (source: Genesis HealthCare System).
  • Social Interaction: Pickleball’s team-based nature promotes social interaction, helping youth build friendships and develop teamwork skills. This social aspect particularly appeals to those who may not be drawn to traditional sports (source: Pickleball Magazine).
  • Mental Health Benefits: Pickleball’s inclusive nature also contributes to mental well-being. By providing a supportive and engaging environment, the sport helps decrease stress levels, improve focus, and boost overall mood (source: Taylor & Francis Online).

Introducing pickleball as often as possible is recommended to maximize its potential benefits for young people. Even novice players can experience the joy and advantages of the game, highlighting its universal appeal.

Pickleball offers a unique blend of inclusivity and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for youth looking for a fun, engaging, and health-promoting activity.

Conclusion

Pickleball offers a unique blend of inclusivity, accessibility, and numerous physical and mental health benefits, making it an excellent choice for youth. The advantages are vast, from enhancing cardiovascular health and balance to reducing stress and fostering social connections.

Whether your child is a seasoned player or new to the game, pickleball provides a supportive and engaging environment for all.

And what better way to get youngsters to play pickleball than in a youth pickleball tournament?

Youth Summer Slam Pickleball Tournament

The Youth Summer Slam will be a fantastic opportunity for teens (18 and under, four age groups) to test their pickleball skills, play with new friends, and get their competitive juices flowing.

The tournament is on July 18th, 2024, at the South Surrey Pickleball Courts.

Don’t miss out on this fun and memorable experience! To learn more and register, click here.

Join us in promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for our younger generation through the exciting world of pickleball.

And spread the word and help us make this tournament successful for all participants.

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Understanding Portable Air Quality Monitors and Their Benefits

Indoor air monitors

Understanding Portable Air Quality Monitors and Their Benefits

What could be more important than the air we all breathe?

If it’s not the most essential element to our survival and health, it has to be near the top. the BC Lung Foundation, the leader in air quality monitoring and improvement, knows this, and is leading the way to make sure we all breathe a little easier.

BC Lung’s recent initiative to provide portable air quality monitors to the residents of 100 Mile House is a testament to the importance of understanding and managing air quality. These devices empower individuals to monitor and improve their environment, contributing to better health outcomes and awareness.

Let’s dive into what air quality monitors are and why they are essential.

What Air Quality Monitors Detect

Air quality monitors are essential tools for maintaining a healthy environment. They detect various pollutants and environmental factors, providing crucial information to help you improve air quality in your home, office, or community.

Here are some key elements that air quality monitors can detect:

  • Particulate Matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10)
      • Tiny particles that can penetrate the respiratory system, potentially causing health issues such as asthma and heart disease.
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
      • Harmful chemicals emitted from household products like paints, cleaners, and furniture that can cause short- and long-term health effects.
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
      • High levels can indicate poor ventilation, leading to headaches, dizziness, and reduced cognitive function.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
      • A dangerous gas produced by burning fossil fuels; high levels can be fatal.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
      • Produced by combustion processes; can irritate airways and exacerbate respiratory diseases.
  • Ozone (O3)
      • A pollutant that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, often found in outdoor monitors.
  • Temperature and Humidity
      • Essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment; high humidity can promote mold growth, while low humidity can cause dryness and irritation.

As you can see, air quality monitors are important, especially for people with asthma or other lung issues.

Types of Air Quality Sensors

Air quality sensors are categorized into indoor, outdoor, commercial, personal, and portable. Each serves a different purpose and is suited to specific users.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors

These monitors measure indoor pollutants such as particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10), VOCs, CO2, CO, NO2, temperature, and humidity. They are essential for homes, offices, and schools to ensure a healthy indoor environment. Popular models include the uHoo, Qingping AM, IKEA Vindstyrka, and Airthings View Plus.

Indoor air monitors

Indoor air quality monitors from Consumer Reports.

Who Should Use Them and Why:

  • Homeowners: To detect and mitigate indoor pollutants.
  • Businesses: To enhance employee health and productivity.
  • Schools: To provide a safe learning environment for students.

Outdoor Air Quality Monitors

These monitors measure particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), and sometimes VOCs. Examples include the AirGradient Open Air and some PurpleAir models.

Who Should Use Them and Why:

  • Environmental Agencies: For monitoring pollution levels.
  • Communities: To stay informed about local air quality.
  • Researchers: To study environmental pollution trends.

Commercial Air Quality Monitors

These are high-grade monitors used in industrial and commercial settings. They measure a wide range of pollutants and are highly accurate. There are interior, outdoor, and in-duct commercial air quality monitors.  Examples include the Aeroqual Series 500 and S-Series monitors.

Who Should Use Them and Why:

  • Industries: To ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Large Buildings: To maintain indoor air quality standards.
  • Hospitals: To ensure a sterile environment.

Office air quality monitors.

You can find commercial-grade air quality monitors in office buildings, warehouses, etc. Source

Personal Air Quality Monitors

Compact, wearable devices that provide real-time air quality data. They typically measure particulate matter, VOCs, and sometimes CO2. An example is the Atmotube PRO.

Who Should Use Them and Why:

  • Individuals with Respiratory Conditions: To avoid harmful environments.
  • Athletes: To choose safe routes for exercise.
  • Travellers: To monitor air quality in different locations.

Portable Air Quality Monitors

These compact, battery-powered devices can be carried around to measure air quality in various locations. They typically measure particulate matter, VOCs, temperature, and humidity. The Atmotube PRO is a popular model.

A portable air monitor from BC Lung.

A portable air monitor from BC Lung.

Who Should Use Them and Why:

  • General Public: For flexible air quality monitoring.
  • Parents: To ensure safe environments for children.
  • Community Groups: For localized air quality assessments.

Key Features of BC Lung’s Portable Air Quality Monitors (pictured below)

  • Real-time data logging
  • Interchangeable sensor heads or modules
  • Rechargeable batteries for portability
  • Connectivity options like Wi-Fi or cellular for data transmission.

How BC Lung’s Portable Air Quality Monitoring Devices Save Lives

Along with warmer weather, summer also means wildfire season in British Columbia. For people with COPD, asthma, or other lung issues, the air quality can be the difference between breathing easily or breathing with difficulty. It could be the difference between life and death, as it was for Carter Vigh.

Carter Vigh, a young boy with severe asthma, tragically lost his life during a period of poor air quality exacerbated by wildfires. On the day he died, the air quality reading his family checked was from a station nearly 100 kilometres away, leading to a false sense of security.

In response to this tragedy, Carter’s mom, Amber Vigh, partnered with BC Lung to create Carter’s Project. This initiative aims to provide communities with reliable, real-time air quality monitors to prevent such tragedies in the future.

 

 

Initiatives such as Carter's Project have helped saved many lives.

Initiatives from BC Lung, such as Carter’s Project, have helped save many lives.

Monitoring indoor air is crucial for protecting health by detecting pollutants that can cause respiratory issues and allergies. It also enhances productivity and comfort by maintaining optimal conditions and ensuring compliance with air quality standards.

Outdoor air quality monitoring protects public health by providing data on pollutants from traffic, industry, and wildfires. It supports environmental monitoring and research, helping to inform policies and mitigation strategies.

Portable is Key

Most air quality monitors are large, stationary machines. They are set up in one place and there they stay, monitoring the air.

This is why BC Lung’s portable air monitors are so unique and valuable. Instead of finding and physically going to the stationary air quality monitor, a person with asthma can simply look at their portable one, saving valuable time that could be used searching for their inhaler or oxygen tank or getting to a hospital or safe place.

BC Lung’s air quality monitors distributed through Carter’s Project are specially selected for their accuracy, portability, and comprehensive pollutant detection capabilities. These monitors are critical for residents in areas like 100 Mile House, where air quality can fluctuate significantly due to environmental factors such as wildfires.

However, the demand for these monitors far exceeds the current supply. Increasing the distribution of these devices is essential for broader community health benefits.

Case Study: BC Lung’s Initiative in 100 Mile House

BC Lung has significantly impacted 100 Mile House by providing portable air quality monitors. These monitors, distributed through Carter’s Project, help residents understand their local air quality, enabling them to take action to improve it. This initiative demonstrates the practical benefits of portable air quality monitors in protecting public health and raising environmental awareness.

Christopher Lam, left, President and CEO of BC Lung, and his team working hard to bring life-saving initiatives like Carter's Project to life.

Christopher Lam, President and CEO of BC Lung, and his team are working hard to bring life-saving initiatives like Carter’s Project to life.

Residents of 100 Mile House, a community often affected by wildfires, can now monitor air quality in real time. This capability allows them to make informed decisions about their activities and health precautions, especially during wildfire season. By providing these monitors, BC Lung aims to prevent tragedies like Carter Vigh and promote a proactive approach to managing air quality.

Conclusion

Air quality monitors, especially portable ones, protect health and improve environmental quality. By providing real-time data and portability, they empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their air quality.

BC Lung does tremendous work to help people with lung and breathing issues live longer, healthier, happier lives. Let’s help make their job a little easier.

The BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic

As we continue emphasizing the importance of air quality and lung health, we are excited to announce the BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic pickleball tournament.

IPOP and BC Lung present The BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic to help raise money for BC Lung.

IPOP and BC Lung present The BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic to help raise money for BC Lung.

This event not only promotes physical health through sports but also supports BC Lung’s initiatives, including projects like providing air quality monitors to communities around BC. Join us in this effort to improve lung health and air quality while enjoying the benefits of an active lifestyle.

By participating in the tournament, you help support BC Lung’s initiatives like Carter’s Project, Smoke-free Generation, and Asthma Camps, all aimed at enhancing respiratory health and quality of life for everyone.

Click here to register.

References

 

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Breathing Easier: How BC Lung and IPOP are Protecting Air Quality and Promoting Health

Carter's Project

As wildfire season approaches, the air quality becomes a critical concern, especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma.

Last summer, BC experienced some of the worst air quality in North America and the world due to wildfires. In response, the BC Lung Foundation has launched several impactful initiatives to combat these challenges.

From Carter’s Project to the distribution of portable air quality testers and advocacy for Carter’s Law, BC Lung is making significant strides in protecting public health.

Let’s explore how these efforts, along with our partnership to promote the health benefits of pickleball, are making a difference.

Carter’s Project: A Lifesaving Initiative

Carter's Project

BC Lung and Amber Vigh, Carter’s mother, launched Carter’s Project in honour of young Carter Vigh to address the urgent need for better air quality monitoring in schools, particularly in wildfire-prone areas. This initiative aims to protect vulnerable populations, especially children, from the adverse health effects of poor air quality, ensuring safer learning environments.

Wildfires pose significant health risks, especially during the hotter, drier summers we’ve been experiencing. Poor air quality exacerbates respiratory issues and can lead to severe health consequences. Carter Vigh’s tragic story underscores the importance of being proactive about air quality, especially for children and those with pre-existing lung conditions.

The Impact of Carter’s Project

Carter’s Project had such a profound impact that it led to the creation of Carter’s Law. This law mandates that government officials in British Columbia consider wildfire health risks to vulnerable groups and take appropriate actions to mitigate those risks. This legislative change is a significant step in protecting public health during wildfire season.

The Power of Portable Air Quality Testers

A portable air monitor from BC Lung.

A portable air monitor from BC Lung.

Another crucial aspect of Carter’s Project was the distribution of portable air quality testers. Last summer, BC Lung distributed these devices to 100 families in 100 Mile House, providing them with real-time air quality data.

These portable testers measure pollutants in the air and alert individuals to dangerous conditions, allowing them to take immediate action to protect their health.

These devices are essential, especially during wildfire, when air quality deteriorates rapidly.

Portable air quality testers empower individuals to make informed decisions about their environment, such as when to stay indoors or use air purifiers. Unfortunately, Carter’s life might have been saved with such a device, highlighting their importance and the need for wider distribution.

Wildfires will continue posing a threat as our summers become hotter and drier. With your support, we can provide more families across BC with these life-saving air quality testers, potentially saving many lives.

Learn more about the types of air quality testers and how they save lives here. (Link to be added soon)

Other Ways BC Lung is Improving Our Air and Health

BC Lung Foundation is at the forefront of air quality improvement initiatives, working tirelessly to protect and improve public health. Some of their key projects include:

  • Smoke-Free Generation: Advocating for policies that prevent smoking among youth. By reducing the number of new smokers, this initiative helps improve air quality and overall lung health. Learn more here.
  • Asthma Camps: These camps offer children with asthma the chance to experience safe and fun summer camps. They provide a supportive environment where kids can enjoy activities without compromising their health. Get more info here.
  • Patient Support: Providing lung patients group support, webinars, and exercise programs. These resources help individuals manage their conditions effectively and improve their quality of life.

IPOP and BC Lung: Promoting Health Through Pickleball

We at IPOP are proud to partner with BC Lung to promote the health benefits of pickleball for everyone.

IPOP and BC Lung are partners.

Playing pickleball is not only fun but also offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. It’s a great way to stay active, improve cardiovascular health, enhance flexibility and balance, and build social connections. Our goal is to prove the positive impacts of pickleball through scientific research, changing how people see the sport.

BC Lung and IPOP are partnering with Dr. Pat Camp and UBC to study the health benefits of pickleball.

BC Lung and IPOP are partnering with Dr. Pat Camp and UBC to study the health benefits of pickleball.

This partnership with BC Lung and Dr. Pat Camp from UBC will help us start studies to back these health benefits with real data. We hope to see pickleball recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle by doctors everywhere.

Learn more about our partnership, research, and how we’re promoting pickleball.

Conclusion

The BC Lung Foundation’s initiatives, such as Carter’s Project, portable air quality testers, and Carter’s Law, are vital in safeguarding public health during wildfire seasons. These efforts and programs, like Smoke-Free Generation and Asthma Camps, highlight BC Lung’s dedication to improving air quality and supporting those with respiratory issues.

Partnering with BC Lung, IPOP is also committed to promoting the health benefits of pickleball, aiming to make a positive impact through both physical activity and community support.

We’re also putting our money where our mouth is and hosting a fun-filled pickleball tournament with BC Lung to promote the health benefits of BC Lung and support their initiatives like the ones you just read about.

IPOP and BC Lung present The BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic to help raise money for BC Lung.

IPOP and BC Lung present The BC Lung First Annual IPOP Classic to help raise money for BC Lung.

Join us at the First Annual BC Lung IPOP Classic on June 22nd to enjoy a day of fun and fitness while supporting these essential health initiatives. There are still spots available, especially for beginners. Don’t miss this chance to be part of something meaningful! Click the link below to register before it’s sold out!

Click Here to Register Now

Together, we can make a difference.

 

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Have you ever had Pickleball Elbow? Here’s 5 tips to prevent it!

Modified for Pickleball elbow !

You mean Pickleball Elbow don’t you?

The game recently give me a Sour Twist and I had to come to the conclusion that the dreaded  “pickleball elbow” is a thing, and my sore elbow is exactly that…lateral epicondylitis. Oh NOOOOO…sheer terror set in as thoughts of no pickleball forced beads of sweat down my brow…but do the symptoms match I ask? My elbow, yes the bony part, and the muscle tissue around it, inflamed and sore. It gets worse the more I play, and my strategies to date—playing through the pain, hoping for my over 50-year-old body to respond as a 25-year-old with a miraculous cure, or just ignoring it in the hopes it goes away—have so far, sadly, failed! However, my newest approach, after “acceptance,” has been to really focus on limited play AFTER a serious set of arm, wrist, and upper body stretches. This has slowly started to yield results. But more about the solutions later…

Why do players get lateral epicondylitis? Pickleball elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is common among avid pickleball players. It occurs due to repetitive stress on the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. The repetitive motion of hitting the ball with the paddle, especially when done incorrectly, can lead to inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons.

What are the symptoms of lateral epicondylitis? Symptoms of pickleball elbow may include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and discomfort when performing activities that involve wrist extension or gripping objects tightly. If you find yourself grimacing every time you reach for your pickleball paddle or experience discomfort during daily activities, you might be facing the fact you too have pickleball elbow.  If you need a little more confirmation, here is a really thorough video that helped me confirm my symptoms without wasting my family Doc’s valuable time.

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to help you avoid the dreaded pickleball elbow:

  1. Muscle Flexibility: Engage in regular stretching exercises to improve muscle flexibility. Focus on stretching your forearms, wrists, and shoulders before and after playing. This will help warm up the muscles, reduce strain, and increase their range of motion.
  2. Strength Exercises: Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to build stronger muscles. Pay attention to your forearm muscles, grip strength, and upper body. Consult a fitness professional or physical therapist for exercises that target these areas.
  3. Change Your Grip: Experiment with different grips and pressures on the paddle handle. Avoid excessive squeezing or gripping too tightly. Find a comfortable grip that allows for better control and minimizes stress on your elbow.
  4. Improve Your Swing Mechanics: Work on refining your swing technique and court placement. Focus on using proper form, utilizing the larger muscles of your body, and avoiding excessive strain on your elbow. Seek guidance from experienced players or consider taking lessons to fine-tune your technique.

Additional Pickleball Elbow Prevention:

  • Use an elbow brace or compression sleeve for extra support. However, compression of the muscle didn’t work for me.
  • Take regular breaks during play to rest your muscles and prevent overuse.
  • Listen to your body and avoid playing through pain or discomfort.

Treatment for Pickleball Elbow: If you’re already dealing with pickleball elbow, don’t worry! There are steps you can take to alleviate the pain and promote healing:

  1. Rest and Ice: Take a break from pickleball and give your elbow time to heal. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily, to reduce inflammation.
  2. Pain Relief: I have used, sparingly, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, like aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. However, this is not a long-term solution, but rather a small addition after playing, and i don’t suggest taking medications as a pre-game ” play through the pain strategy”! For some, over-the-counter pain medications can help manage the discomfort, so consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate recommendations.
  3. Physical Therapy: Seek the assistance of a physical therapist who can provide targeted exercises to strengthen and rehabilitate the affected muscles and tendons.
  4. Strengthening Stretches: Once the acute pain subsides, incorporate gentle stretches into your routine to gradually regain flexibility and prevent future injuries. Strengthening and stretching exercises are one of the most important components of recovery programs. The underlying principle of stretching is that, by lengthening the tendon during relaxation, we can reduce its stretching during offending movements. The best stretching position for the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis tendon is reached with the elbow in extension, forearm in pronation, wrist in flexion, and ulnar deviation of the wrist, according to the patient’s tolerance. This stretching should be held for 30- 45 s and 3 times before and after playing pickleball.

Dynamic stretching exercises for healing Pickleball Elbow

Practicing Safety in Pickleball is More Important Than Practicing Your Dink! Even though pickleball is generally easier on the body compared to other sports like tennis, it’s still essential to prioritize safety. While the court size and paddle design reduce the risk of injury, it’s crucial to train your body to use proper mechanics on the court and take care of your body off the court.

Don’t overplay and incorporate a good pre and post-prevention ritual including a proper body warm-up, dynamic and static stretching, and a decent cool-down period after each session. Listen to your body and address any signs of discomfort early on to avoid prolonged pain or injury.

Pickleball elbow may be an unfortunate reality for many players, but it doesn’t have to be a game-changer. By implementing preventive measures such as muscle flexibility exercises, strength training, adjusting your grip, and improving your swing mechanics, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing pickleball elbow. If you’re already experiencing symptoms, remember to rest, seek professional guidance, and gradually reintroduce physical activity once the pain subsides. Stay safe, take care of your body, and keep enjoying the game we all love—pickleball!

Updated: November 2023: Well, after many months of recurring injury, I surrendered my arm to Vampire doctor, who is know in my area as a Dr with unconventional tactics towards healing my arm. The process has been 10 mins of Electroacupuncture,  a modern

variation of acupuncture. It uses electricity to enhance the benefits of this traditional therapeutic treatment. Then Doc uses Cupping therapy, which is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which he puts special cups on my elbow skin for a few minutes to create suction. According to Doc, besides helping with pain,  it also reduces inflammation by increasing blood flow to the area. Doc Simon says it’s just like an oil change. So far so good, but this time, after 6 weeks off, my goal is to slowly return to the courts, i mean playing only 30 mins to 1 hour for the first week.  Hopefully, some day soon, i will see you guys out there on the courts.

Disclaimer: The content in the IPOP pickleball blog is for informational purposes only. IPOP’s pickleball blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as IPOP is not a doctor. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional.

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