The Effect of Playing Tennis on Reducing Heart Disease Risk Revealed

According to scientific studies, playing tennis significantly reduces the risk of dying from heart disease while being associated with a longer life span compared to sedentary individuals, surpassing the effects of certain other sports.

Research Findings

Studies published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings and the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveal the positive effects of playing tennis on health.

It is stated that playing tennis is associated with living approximately 10 years longer compared to those with a sedentary lifestyle.

Reduction in Risk of Death

According to the study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, playing tennis provides a 56 percent reduction in the risk of dying from heart disease.

At the same time, it is stated that the risk of dying prematurely from any cause decreases by 47 percent.

Expert Opinions

Researchers point out that people who play tennis may already lead healthier lifestyles and that causality has not yet been fully proven.

Dr. Brian Hainline notes that science shows tennis extends lifespan by improving mental, physical, and social health.

Tennis as a Full-Body Workout

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gautam Pratap Yagnik describes tennis as almost a full-body workout.

While running on the court, the legs, the core and shoulders during the stroke, and the arms when hitting the ball are actively engaged.

Muscle Fibers and Endurance

Sports medicine physician Dr. Elan Goldwaser states that tennis utilizes both fast-twitch fibers that provide rapid and explosive movements and endurance fibers.

Due to this feature, the sport of tennis is likened to high-intensity interval training.

Bone Density and Advantages

According to research published in the German Journal of Sports Medicine, recreational tennis players have significantly higher bone density.

In addition, the low injury rate of tennis and the fact that it can be played across a very wide age range are among other prominent factors.