pickleball, warm up

Play pickleball injury free

July 17, 20261 min read

Pickleball injuries have doubled and most of them are completely preventable. A physical therapist breaks down exactly why players are getting hurt and gives you a simple routine to protect your shoulders, forearms, and hips before, during, and after play.

🔬 THE KEY PRINCIPLES
The biggest myth in pickleball is that it is easier on your body than tennis. That misconception is exactly why so many players skip warm-ups, cool-downs, and strength work and end up with overuse injuries that sideline them for weeks. A few targeted exercises before and after you play makes a bigger difference than most people realize.

✅ YOU SHOULD FEEL
Your hips and glutes activate during the warm-up, your shoulder blades working during the strengthening exercises, and a real release through your forearms and thoracic spine during the cool-down. If you are doing all of this consistently and still getting hurt, it is time to see a physical therapist for a personalized plan.

❓ COMMON QUESTIONS
*Why are pickleball injuries increasing?* Most players assume pickleball is low risk and skip injury prevention entirely. That is catching up with them.

*What is the best warm-up for pickleball?* Dynamic movements like squats and side glides that wake up your hips, glutes, and legs before you start playing.

*How long should I hold a stretch after playing?* Post-game stretches need 30 to 90 seconds to actually change the tissue. Quick holds do not count.

This week’s video is: 5 Minute Pickleball Warmup

Here’s what you’ll learn:

🧠 the most common causes on injuries while playing pickleball

💪 warm up exercises to do before playing pickleball

🏃 strengthening exercises to do between playing pickleball

📺 Watch it here:

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