Shloka Mehta, Akash Ambani Join Pickleball Craze

Even Shloka Mehta and Akash Ambani Are Playing Pickleball—But Is It Actually Good for You?

They brunch in Dubai, holiday in the Maldives, and now… they play pickleball?

Yes, even Shloka Mehta and Akash Ambani—members of India’s most high-profile family—are swapping designer shoes for court sneakers and picking up paddles to play the newest celeb-favourite sport: pickleball. The couple was recently spotted enjoying a match with friends in Mumbai, and social media can’t stop buzzing.

But beyond the glitz of celeb sightings and viral videos, one question remains:
Is pickleball actually good for you?

Spoiler alert: it might just be the best thing you can do for your mind and body—no matter your age.

What is Pickleball, Anyway?

Think of it as the lovechild of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played with paddles and a perforated plastic ball, it’s fast, fun, and refreshingly simple to learn—even for beginners. The game takes place on a small court with a low net, which makes it less intimidating than traditional racquet sports.

And it’s catching on fast—from Leonardo DiCaprio and Aamir Khan to Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, and now, Akash and Shloka, pickleball fever is real.

So, why is Pickleball So Good for You?

Turns out, this trendy sport isn’t just great for your Instagram feed—it’s great for your health too. According to Cleveland Clinic, here are 4 science-backed reasons you should consider trying it:

1. It Boosts Brain Health

Sure, it’s fun—but it’s also social. And that’s huge.
“People interact with each other, enhancing their quality of life,” says physical therapist Jim Edwards. That mental stimulation and social connection can sharpen memory and mood, especially as we age.

 2. Improves Heart & Lung Function

Pickleball gets your heart rate up without feeling like a grueling workout. You’re moving, laughing, and sweating—all while torching calories and improving your cardiovascular health.

 3. Builds Stronger Muscles and Bones

Think of it as resistance training in disguise. The running, lunging, and paddling put just enough stress on your body to encourage stronger bones and muscle development, which can help prevent osteoporosis.

 4. Increases Balance and Coordination

If you’ve ever tripped over your own feet, you’ll appreciate this one. Regular pickleball play improves agility, reflexes, and coordination—especially helpful for older adults who want to stay active and independent.

Bottom Line?

Pickleball might have started as a playful pastime, but it’s become a movement—and for good reason. It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and offers serious physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, it’s a sport that welcomes all.

So, if Shloka and Akash can make time for a game between gala appearances, maybe it’s time to grab a paddle yourself.

Who knows? You might just fall in love with the game too.