The United States has a population of over 331 million. It's ranked 3rd in the world standing for total population (1), and like many other countries, they have a mounting obesity problem.
Broadly speaking, figures from 2017 and 2018 estimate roughly 42.5% of Americans over 20 were classified obese, and the rate for children and adolescents is anywhere between 13-21% obesity depending on age (2).
So, with rising levels of obesity and the co-morbidities associated with it, you could say the US are in a right pickle. Enter Pickleball... a hybrid sport combining tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Although not new, with the constrictions of lockdown, Pickleball saw a sudden rise in popularity; so much so, it is now hailed as the fastest growing sport in America!
Increasing activity levels is an absolute must for all. So if Pickleball can get people out and active, give them enjoyment, and maybe even help them lose body fat and increase their cardiovascular fitness, we say bring it on. Its a shame a pandemic was the motivating factor to begin the trend, but ultimately if it results in more active health conscious population that can only be a good thing. Future stats will give us a clue in the future.
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