Pickleball: A New Hope for Parkinson's Patients
The Rise of Pickleball Among Parkinson's Patients
Globally recognized for its numerous health advantages, pickleball has attracted millions of enthusiasts. Recently, it has gained traction among individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. At the Genoveva Chavez Community Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the distinct sound of pickleball paddles resonates, symbolizing a new chapter for many players. For 75-year-old Charlie Lee, each paddle swing represents a daily battle against Parkinson’s disease.
Lee, who began playing pickleball just seven months ago, was initially hesitant but eventually embraced the sport after encouragement from his wife. He joined the Pickleball for Parkinson’s initiative organized by Punching Out Parkinson’s Santa Fe. Now, he practices twice a week with nearly 20 others, discovering unexpected benefits along the way. “I’ve noticed that the tremors in my right hand temporarily lessen when I hold the paddle,” Lee shared with the Santa Fe New Mexican.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s four years ago, Lee has experienced improvements in his balance and hand-eye coordination through the sport. “I have a soft touch, and I’m not sure how,” he remarked. “Many players are what we call ‘bangers.’” The program, which started in 2024, is a collaboration between Punching Out Parkinson’s Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Pickleball League, and the New Mexico and Arizona Pickleball Association. Initially held outdoors at Romero Park, the sessions moved indoors last September due to winter weather disruptions.
Founded in 2011, Punching Out Parkinson’s initially focused on boxing-based exercises to assist those with the progressive neurological disorder. However, organizers have found that pickleball serves as an effective alternative. “The main goal of these exercises is to engage participants vigorously,” explained community events coordinator Peggy Samaha. “In the absence of a cure, exercise becomes the medicine. It helps maintain coordination between eyes and hands while also encouraging participants to keep score.”
Interest in the program has been on the rise. After initially offering free sessions, organizers now charge participants USD 5 for two days of play, with up to five courts operating simultaneously. “We welcomed two new players today, and most return,” noted Cindy Geyer, whose husband Ron was diagnosed with Parkinson’s two years ago. “It’s a safe environment. We adapt the program as needed, including providing spotters.”
Beyond physical activity, participants have formed a robust support network. “We all share similar challenges,” said Steve Elliott, who has been living with Parkinson’s for seven years. “Having social interactions and friendships is invaluable, extending beyond the court.” For Lee, pickleball provides fleeting yet significant moments of control over a disease that often strips away autonomy. “You just have to push through and find new ways to adapt,” he concluded.