Are you tired of slogging away on the treadmill for hours to burn calories? What if we told you that there’s a fun and exciting way to burn calories while enjoying the great outdoors? That’s right, we’re talking about pickleball!
Get your heart pumping and your body burning calories with a game of pickleball! According to sports Doctors, playing pickleball can help you burn 8-10 calories per minute. That means you could burn between 240-300 calories per 30-minute game.
In this article, we’ll explore just how many calories you can burn while playing pickleball singles and doubles and how this activity can help you reach your fitness goals while having fun. Keep reading!
How Long Does a Pickleball Match Take?
Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that’s gaining popularity worldwide. However, if you’re new to the game, you might wonder how long a match lasts.
Well, the answer is – it depends! The duration of a pickleball match can vary based on several factors, including the players’ skill level, the game’s format, and even the weather conditions.
A typical pickleball match usually entails winning two of the three games to 11 points. Depending on the speed of the game and the difficulty of the competition, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Make sure to set aside extra time for your next pickleball match, whether you are a novice or an expert player, because you never know how long it might last!
However, the duration can also change if the game format is changed. For example, in a singles match, the game typically lasts longer than in a doubles match.
Additionally, if the game is being played as part of a tournament, the duration can be longer or shorter, depending on the rules and regulations of the contest.
Factors Influencing Calorie Burn During Pickleball
The number of calories burned during a game of pickleball can vary based on several factors. These factors include a person’s weight, age, gender, fitness level, the game’s intensity and many others.
So, let’s examine each of these elements in turn:
1. Weight
The weight of a person is one of the most crucial factors to find out the the number of calories burned.
A person is more likely to burn more calories when exercising if they weigh more.
For example, a person weighing 150 pounds can burn up to 240 calories in a 30-minute game of pickleball, while a person weighing 200 pounds can burn up to 320 calories.
You can also get an estimated idea of calorie burning with the help of Calorie burning rate calculator.
2. Age
As we get older, our metabolism tends to slow down. It can make it more challenging to lose calories while playing pickleball.
Nonetheless, playing pickleball regularly can be an excellent way to boost metabolism and burn more calories, even as we age.
3. Gender
Gender can also play a role in the number of calories burned during a game of pickleball.
Men tend to have more muscle mass than women, which can lead to a higher metabolic rate and a greater number of calories burned during physical activity.
For instance, a 30-minute game of pickleball can burn around 240 calories for a 160-pound man, while a 160-pound woman may only burn around 200 calories during the same duration of play.
This difference in calories burned can be attributed to the higher muscle mass and metabolic rate of men compared to women.
4. Fitness Level
The level of fitness of the person can also impact the quantity of energy consumed during the game.
Players who are physically fit and experienced can expect to burn more calories than beginners. However, beginners can still burn many calories while playing pickleball.
5. The Intensity of the Game
The intensity of the game also influences the energy expenditure.
A more competitive and fast-paced game can help players to burn more calories than a slower-paced, less intense game.
6. Duration of the Game
As discussed earlier, the game’s duration has a great effect on the amount of the energy utilized.
A longer game can lead to more calories burned than a shorter game.
7. Type of Court Surface
The type of court surface can also determine the number of calories burned.
Playing on a softer surface, such as clay or grass, can be more demanding on the body compared to playing on a hard surface, such as concrete or asphalt.
8. Equipment Used
The type of equipment used can also impact the quantity of calories burned.
Using a heavier paddle can lead to more calories being burned compared to using a lighter paddle.
Additionally, playing with a ball with higher compression can burn more calories due to increased resistance.
9. Playing Style
The way you play, including your style and strategy, can also affect the number of calories you will burn.
Players who are more aggressive and move around the court more can expect to burn more calories than players who stay in one spot and play a more defensive game.
10. Weather Conditions
If the game is played in hot or humid weather, the body must work harder to maintain a safe body temperature.
It can lead to more calories burned compared to playing in cooler conditions.
11. Rest Periods
Finally, the number of rest periods during the game can also affect calorie burn.
Taking frequent breaks or extended rest periods can lower the number of calories burned compared to playing continuously without any gaps.
Considering these factors, a person can get a better idea of how many calories they can burn while playing pickleball.
How Many Calories Do You Burn Playing Pickleball Singles & Doubles?
Besides being a great way to socialize and have fun, playing pickleball can also help you burn calories and improve your overall health and fitness.
We have answered it in detail below according to the pickleball singles and doubles.
Calories Burned Playing Pickleball Singles
In singles play, the player has to cover the entire court alone, which requires more movement and effort, leading to a higher calorie burn.
On average, a person weighing 150 pounds can burn up to 420 calories in a 60-minute game of singles pickleball.
For those wondering how many calories they can burn while playing pickleball singles, this table breaks down the estimated calorie burn by weight and time spent on the court.
Sure, here’s a table for estimating the calories burned when playing pickleball singles:
Calories Burned Playing Pickleball Doubles
Playing doubles can also help to burn many calories, though it may not be as effective as playing singles.
The number of calories burned during doubles play depends on the intensity, duration, and other factors.
On average, a person weighing 150 pounds can burn up to 300 calories in a 60-minute game of doubles pickleball.
However, playing doubles with a more aggressive playing style, on a softer court surface, with heavier equipment, can help players to burn more calories.
Overall, playing doubles or singles, pickleball is a fun and effective way to stay active and healthy.
Find out how many calories you can burn playing pickleball doubles with this handy calorie-burning table based on your weight.
Weight (lbs) | Calories Burned/Min | Calories Burned/30 Min | Calories Burned/45 Min |
125 | 7.5 | 225 | 337.5 |
150 | 9 | 270 | 405 |
175 | 10.5 | 315 | 472.5 |
200 | 12 | 360 | 540 |
225 | 13.5 | 405 | 607.5 |
250 | 15 | 450 | 675 |
However, it’s important to note that the answer to this question depends on several variables, as was covered in the preceding section.
In fact, some players have reported burning up to 500 calories during a single game of pickleball, while others have reported burning as few as 150 calories.
MET Calculation of Calorie Burn from Pickleball Play
In addition to estimating the number of calories burned during a game of pickleball, researchers also use MET (metabolic equivalent) values to evaluate the intensity of the activity.
The MET value measures the energy expended by the body during physical activity relative to the resting metabolic rate.
The Moderate-Intensity of Pickleball and MET Values
According to research, playing pickleball has an average MET value of 6.8. It means that playing pickleball is a moderate-intensity activity that requires a moderate amount of energy expenditure.
It is comparable to other moderate-intensity activities such as cycling, swimming, and brisk walking.
Factors Affecting the Actual MET Value and Calorie Burn
It’s important to note that the actual MET value and calorie burn can vary based on the individual’s weight, age, gender, fitness level, and playing style.
However, using MET values can help individuals estimate the intensity of the activity and adjust their workout routine accordingly.
Using MET Values to Achieve Fitness Goals
For example, the American Heart Association recommends that individuals engage in moderate-intensity aerobic activity 30 minutes a day, or at least 150 minutes a week, five days per week.
It can include activities such as playing pickleball, cycling, or brisk walking.
By using MET values to estimate the intensity of the training, individuals can ensure that they meet these recommendations and get the most out of their workout routine.
You can also calculate the MET value using the given easiest formula:
The formula for weighing calories per minute is = METs × 3.5 × (body weight in kg) / 200
Health Benefits of Pickleball as a Calorie Burner
One of the main reasons why pickleball is such an effective calorie burner is the amount of movement and physical activity involved.
The game requires players to run, jump, and swing their racquets, which can help to elevate their heart rate and burn calories.
In addition to the physical benefits, the mental focus and strategic thinking involved in the game can also be a great motivator.
So, depending upon the above explanations, it’s pretty clear to understand that pickleball laying pickleball provides a number of health benefits beyond just burning calories.
Accordingly, here are some of the health benefits of playing pickleball:
1. Improves Cardiovascular Health
Playing pickleball involves constant movement and can help improve cardiovascular health.
The aerobic activity involved in playing pickleball can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
According to Pace Hospitals, being physically fit is the key to control Cardiovascular diseases.
2. Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance
Pickleball involves a lot of movement and quick directional changes, which can help build muscle strength and endurance.
Players use a combination of the upper body, lower body, and core muscles, which help build overall strength and endurance.
3. Improves Flexibility
Playing pickleball involves various movements, such as stretching and reaching, which can help improve your flexibility and range of motion.
This sport is a great way to promote joint health and reduce the risk of injuries.
Regular play can also help increase muscle strength and endurance, thus improving overall physical fitness.
4. Promotes Socialization and Mental Well-being
Playing pickleball is a social activity that can promote socialization and mental well-being.
It can provide opportunities to meet new people, build relationships, and reduce stress and anxiety.
5. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Engaging in consistent physical activity such as playing pickleball can decrease the likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.
It can also help manage existing conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis.
6. Improves Balance and Coordination
Pickleball requires quick movements and changes in direction, which can help improve balance and coordination. It can be especially beneficial for older adults, who may be at risk of falls and injuries.
7. Provides a Low-impact Workout:
Pickleball is a low-impact activity that puts less stress on joints than on high-impact activities such as running. It makes it an excellent option for individuals with joint pain or injuries.
Comparison: Calories Burned Playing Tennis & Pickleball
When it comes to calorie burning, both tennis and pickleball can provide a good workout.
Here’s a comparison of the calorie burn for a 155-pound person playing tennis and pickleball for 30 minutes:
Calories Burned Playing Tennis
A 155-pound person can burn approximately 240 calories playing singles tennis for 30 minutes.
It is comparable to other moderate-intensity activities such as cycling, swimming, and brisk walking.
Calories Burned Playing Pickleball
Pickleball can burn about 149 calories for a 155-pound person in 30 minutes. While this is a lower calorie burn compared to tennis, pickleball is still an excellent option for individuals looking for a fun and social way to stay active.
Below is a table that compares the estimated number of calories burned while playing singles and doubles in both tennis and pickleball, based on a person’s weight.
Weight (lbs) | Tennis (singles) | Pickleball (singles) | Tennis (doubles) | Pickleball (doubles) |
120 | 300 | 200 | 240 | 160 |
150 | 375 | 250 | 300 | 200 |
180 | 450 | 300 | 360 | 240 |
These are estimated values based on a 30-minute session of moderate-intensity play for a person of average fitness level.
Important Note
It’s important to note that the actual calorie burn can vary based on individual factors such as weight, age, gender, fitness level, and playing style.
However, these estimates provide a general idea of the calorie burn for each activity.
Both tennis and pickleball can provide a good workout and offer a number of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, muscle strength and endurance, and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
People can increase their general health and fitness while having fun and interacting with others by including these activities in a regular workout plan.
FAQs: How Many Calories Burned Playing Pickleball
1. How many calories are burned playing Pickleball in doubles?
Doubles pickleball can burn approximately 186 to 292 calories for a 155-pound person, depending on individual factors such as weight, age, gender, and fitness level.
2. Is Pickleball good for weight loss?
Yes. As pickleball burns many calories and provides a rather challenging workout, it can be an excellent method to lose weight.
3. How many calories are burned playing pickleball for 45 minutes?
A 155-pound person can burn between 223 and 351 calories playing pickleball for 45 minutes, depending on their weight, age, gender, and degree of fitness.
4. Is Pickleball a good workout?
Pickleball is a fantastic activity that can enhance your cardiovascular health, increase your muscle strength and endurance, and lower your risk of developing chronic diseases.
5. How many calories do you burn playing 1 hour of pickleball?
A 155-pound person can burn between 298 and 469 calories playing pickleball for an hour, depending on their weight, age, gender, and degree of fitness.
6. How many calories do you burn playing 2 hours of pickleball?
A 155-pound person can burn between 596 and 938 calories playing pickleball for two hours, depending on their weight, age, gender, and degree of fitness. To prevent damage, it’s essential to pay attention to your body and take rests when necessary.
Final Thoughts On How Many Calories Does Pickleball Burn
Pickleball is a terrific way to stay active, burn calories, and have a good time. You may have fun and accomplish your fitness goals at the same time. It can benefit your health and lower your risk of developing chronic diseases if you incorporate it into your regular exercise regimen. So why not grab a friend, head to the court, and give pickleball a try today?
In the end, we hope this article has inspired you to discover the many benefits of playing pickleball and to start your fitness journey with this enjoyable sport.
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I’m Brandon Fritze, a pro Pickleball player, instructor, and tournament champion with a degree in Sport Studies from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA. With years of experience, I’ve sharpened my expertise in the game, helping over 100 players become skilled in Pickleball. Through my renowned blog, “Pickleball Infos,” I inspire and empower players of all levels to enhance their skills and experience the thrill of this amazing sport.