Tennis or Pickleball – Which Is Better for You?

April 21, 2026 – When it comes to rivalries, forget Yankees vs. Redsox, or Dodgers vs. Padres – for a real tussle look to tennis or pickleball. Tennis players get apoplectic when their precious courts get divided up into 2 or more for pickleball. To drive up a pickleball player’s blood pressure, just drive them by an empty tennis court.

Tennis players (and many neighbors) hate the whack, whack, whack of a pickleball hitting a paddle. Many pickleball fans think tennis players are elitist snobs, and that their game is much more social. And the rivalry goes on.

Which is more popular? There is no doubt that pickleball is growing faster,: 24% more played the sport (24.3 million) from 2024 to 2025. But tennis had the most players ever that year, 27 million, but with a slower growth ever.

As for their merits

A Danish research study found that regular tennis players live an average 10 years longer than their sedentary countertypes. The consensus seems to be that pickleball could offer a similar benefit. Both sports provide cardiovascular, balance, social , and even mental benefits. A recent study by the American Heart Association found that tennis offered a slightly higher aerobic benefit, along with higher heart rates.

Both sports can be a source of injuries. Tennis players have a bigger swing, and can get tennis elbow and shoulder problems. Pickleball players are prone to achilles and knee problems from jumping and twitchy movements, as well as eye injuries. Tennis, with its bigger court, might offer a slightly better aerobic workout (particularly singles), while pickleball might help with balance and train quicker reflexes. Players in both sports can experience all kinds of injuries, particularly to those who aren’t in good condition to begin with.

Both games provide the opportunity for social interaction, a key factor in longevity. Some experts believe pickleball, with its emphasis on pick up games, might be better at this than tennis.

Bottom line

There is good news for tennis and pickleball players. They are going to live longer, healthier, and happier lives than folks who are inactive. Injuries can and do result, so getting into shape and warming up are key to help avoiding them.

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