Recent medical research and expert commentary place tennis at the top of the list for the healthiest sport in America. Dr. Brian Hainline, a neurologist and former president of the U.S. Tennis Association, said in a 2024 statement that “science informs us that playing tennis prolongs life while improving mental, physical and social health.”
Why doctors praise tennis
Dr. Elan Goldwaser, a sports‑medicine physician at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, described tennis as “one of the most intense sports you can play with some of the highest health benefits associated with them.” Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gautam Pratap Yagnik of Baptist Health South Florida added that the game is “pretty much a whole‑body workout,” engaging the legs, core, shoulders and arms.
Studies support these claims. A Mayo Clinic Proceedings analysis found that regular tennis players live almost ten years longer than sedentary adults – the greatest life‑expectancy boost linked to any sport. The same research showed tennis outperformed soccer, cycling, swimming and jogging in longevity, though researchers note that active individuals may already lead healthier lifestyles.
Heart health and mortality risk
The British Journal of Sports Medicine reported a 56 % reduction in heart‑disease mortality for tennis participants compared with non‑players, a larger effect than swimming, aerobics, cycling or running. Overall, tennis was linked to a 47 % lower risk of dying prematurely from any cause.
Physical benefits
Playing tennis activates both fast‑twitch muscle fibers for speed and explosive movement and slow‑twitch fibers for endurance, providing a balanced workout similar to high‑intensity interval training. Singles matches demand more cardio because players cover more court, while doubles still offers substantial aerobic activity.
Research published in the German Journal of Sports Medicine found that regular tennis players have significantly higher bone density than non‑athletes, thanks to the repeated impact of jumping and rapid directional changes.
Mental and social advantages
Beyond the physical, tennis offers strong mental health benefits. The sport requires intense focus, strategic thinking, emotional control and sportsmanship, which help reduce stress, improve cognitive function and foster resilience. The social nature of playing with partners or opponents adds a community element that combats loneliness and supports emotional well‑being.
Sunlight exposure during outdoor play also boosts vitamin D levels, which can help prevent mood disorders.
Safety and accessibility
Experts note that tennis carries a relatively low injury risk. Common concerns include overuse injuries such as shoulder tendonitis and occasional acute injuries like ankle twists or calf strains. Proper warm‑ups, stretching and technique instruction can mitigate these risks.
One of tennis’s unique strengths is its accessibility across the lifespan. Dr. Yagnik highlighted that children as young as four and seniors in their 80s regularly play, making it one of the few sports that truly spans generations.
Getting started
For those new to the game, a medical check‑up is advisable before beginning any exercise program. Beginners should seek lessons to learn proper technique and invest in appropriate equipment. Consistent warm‑ups and stretching are essential to prevent injury.
While pickleball shares many of tennis’s benefits, experts say the smaller court and lower aerobic demand make tennis the superior choice for maximal health impact.
Overall, the evidence points to tennis as a powerful, low‑risk activity that supports longevity, heart health, bone strength, mental clarity and social connection – a true all‑around prescription for a healthier America.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
