Are you looking for a new way to get active in the new year? Or a way to meet people through exercise? Table tennis could be the sport for you!

As we are all aware, regular movement at any stage of life brings physical benefits such as improved coordination and cardiovascular health – and playing table tennis for as little as 10 minutes can make a real difference.

It is also easy on the body as it is a non-contact sport and you can play within your own capabilities and limitations and still have a great game.

The benefits are not only physical, but mental and emotional too – playing table tennis can increase your energy, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost self-esteem. 

Table tennis aids complex thinking and increases the cortex (the part of the brain that shrinks with age). It can help people manage conditions such as Parkinson’s, or aid those who are recovering from a stroke.

And as one of the most inclusive sports around – anyone can play, irrespective of age, physical ability or gender – it’s easy for everyone to get involved.

Whether you prefer a gentle, social game or something a bit more competitive, there are countless locations where you can pick up a bat and get started.

From public tables placed all over the country as part of the Ping! initiative, to Ping Pong Parlours in shopping centres and hundreds of clubs, you are sure to find somewhere to give it a go.

To find your nearest table click on the big red button below.  

You can even play at home – a dining table can be easily converted into a table tennis table with a roll-net set. To get you started, you can find all the basic rules here.

We also have programmes geared to different age groups.

If you’re over 50 and looking for a relaxed environment to enjoy table tennis, consider joining one of our Bat & Chat sessions, which include a coach and a mix of free play, fun and competitive games, and a break for socialising. 

Table tennis is more than just a sport; it is a valuable tool for promoting mental health and well-being. By recognising and embracing its benefits, individuals can use table tennis to improve their overall quality of life!

The benefits of table tennis for mental health

As depicted in the graphic, one in four of us will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in our lives. Physical activity is shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and the risk of depression, and table tennis, as a flexible sport suitable for everyone, is a fantastic way to enjoy these benefits. Here are five ways table tennis positively impacts mental health: 

Enhanced Mood: Table tennis can trigger the release of neurotransmitters associated with happiness and contentment, fostering enjoyment and upliftment. 

Stress Reduction: The game requires quick decision-making and reflexes, diverting attention from sources of worry and anxiety, leading to relaxation and calm. 

Anxiety Alleviation: The focused concentration needed during gameplay can quiet anxious thoughts, promoting mindfulness and emotional well-being. 

Cognitive Stimulation: Beyond its physical aspects, table tennis challenges cognitive functions like attention, memory, and problem-solving, improving mental acuity over time. 

Social Connection: Whether playing casually with friends or in organized events, table tennis promotes social interaction and a sense of belonging, creating a supportive network that enhances mental well-being. 

Why not get in touch with a friend and find somewhere to play some table tennis together?