How Shared Activities Can Revitalize Your Relationship
Pickleball has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports in North America. According to Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP), pickleball participation grew by 223.5% from 2020 to 2023, with 48.3 million players in the United States alone.
While pickleball appeals to all age groups, it’s particularly popular among middle-aged adults. The USA Pickleball Association reports that 75% of core players (those who play 8 or more times per year) are 55 and older, with the average age of all players being 38.1 years (although the age is dropping).
As a relationship psychologist and coach, I’ve observed how activities like pickleball can positively impact couples. My husband and I started playing a year ago, and we’ve become addicted!
It’s a fun sport that is easy to learn and play. Even the “unathletic” type like me can do it.
On the courts, we see many couples enjoying the game together, which got me thinking about the broader implications of shared activities on relationship health.
Research supports the idea that couples who engage in leisure activities together tend to have healthier relationships. One study found that shared leisure activities were positively associated with marital satisfaction.
Another study discovered that couples who participated in shared activities reported greater relationship quality and were more likely to be together nine months later.
While these studies don’t specifically focus on pickleball, they highlight the importance of couples engaging in enjoyable activities together. Such shared experiences create opportunities for communication, laughter, and the cultivation of common interests – all vital components of a thriving relationship.
It’s worth noting that the type of activity matters. Couples who participate in novel and arousing activities together report increased relationship quality compared to those who engage in mundane activities.
Pickleball, with its mix of physical activity, social interaction, and the potential for continuous learning and improvement, could fit the bill as an engaging shared activity for many couples.
Whether it’s pickleball or another mutual interest, the key is to find activities that both partners enjoy and make time for them consistently.
Remember, investing time in shared experiences isn’t just about having fun – it’s about nurturing your relationship. And it might just add a new dimension to your time together and contribute to a healthier, happier relationship.
