Engaging in tennis may prove to be more effective than conventional gym workouts in preventing musculoskeletal disorders, according to a recent study. Musculoskeletal conditions, which impact one in four adults in the UK, encompass issues such as joint pain from osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Researchers from Liverpool Hope University advocate for tennis as a straightforward preventive strategy, particularly for individuals aged 50 and above.
Dr. Matthew Jackson, a sports and exercise scientist, conducted a comparative analysis between two groups: regular tennis players and those who adhered to NHS exercise recommendations through activities like running and gym workouts. The results indicated that tennis players exhibited significantly superior musculoskeletal health compared to their fitness-focused counterparts.
Dr. Jackson remarked, “Our findings indicate that tennis is an outstanding activity for promoting musculoskeletal health and should be more frequently recommended as a viable alternative to current physical activity guidelines.”
Health Implications and NHS Impact
In the UK, musculoskeletal issues affect approximately 9.6 million adults and 12,000 children, contributing to nearly 30% of general practitioner consultations. Dr. Jackson posits that a shift towards tennis could lead to substantial improvements in musculoskeletal health across the nation.
The study, published in Sports Health, involved 90 participants aged between 18 and 65, comprising 43 tennis players and 47 individuals who regularly exercised. Their musculoskeletal function was evaluated through tests assessing body composition, strength, and endurance.
Distinct Advantages of Playing Tennis
Tennis players not only demonstrated a healthier body mass index (BMI) but also exhibited enhanced upper and lower body functionality compared to gym-goers. Dr. Jackson elaborated on the unique advantages of tennis: “As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and bone mineral density. Tennis, being a weight-bearing sport, helps improve both muscle mass and bone density while also benefiting cardiovascular health.”
He also highlighted the social dimension of tennis, which fosters long-term engagement: “If you find joy in the sport, you are more likely to continue participating.”
Addressing Muscle-Wasting Conditions
Dr. Jackson emphasized the potential to reverse sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle loss that can impede daily activities. He stated, “There is a common belief that severe muscle loss in later years is irreversible. However, sarcopenia can indeed be reversed.”
The participants in the study underwent various assessments at Liverpool Hope University’s School of Health Sciences, including handgrip strength and treadmill running. The results showed that tennis players outperformed others in both upper and lower body functionality and maintained a lower BMI.
Promoting Accessibility and Participation
Dr. Jackson addressed the misconception that tennis is an exclusive sport for the affluent: “Joining a local tennis club is not prohibitively expensive. We are collaborating with the Lawn Tennis Association to increase public access to facilities at no cost.”
In conclusion, Dr. Jackson stated, “Tennis is an activity that individuals are likely to engage in for a longer duration, reaping all the associated health benefits compared to other forms of exercise.”