Now that winter is here the last thing many people want to do is exercise. But I believe I have found a great way to work out as well as have fun – Table Tennis!

So what makes Table Tennis so great?

Well for the weight conscious it’s a great way to shed the pounds. Table tennis is a fantastic way to exercise as you are continually working all the major muscles groups in the body. As you play your heart rate remains elevated, and your body is supplied with increased blood flow and oxygen at the same time, meaning you can get your heart pumping without feeling winded.

As well as all the cardiovascular benefits it is also great for improving reflexes. Due to the wide range of movements and joints used, your reflexes become stronger and quicker. Table tennis is so good at improving reflexes that professional NHL Hockey players participate in the sport when training.

Table tennis also gives you a great mental workout. The amount of focus and concentration needed in the game is immense, from focusing on the ball to planning your next move your mind needs to be constantly one step ahead. Although this sounds like hard work it is great for de-stressing after a busy day and the added bonus of the released endorphins means afterwards you fell great and have more energy than when you started.

But most importantly table tennis is FUN!

Not only do you have all the health benefits without being physically demanding but anyone can play. As the rules are so easy to learn you can get playing immediately, and with the huge range of tables out there you can play inside and out regardless of season.
But for me the most important thing is that I can train by myself or that I can play with friends. Easy to set up and cheap to play anyone can take part in this fantastic and popular sport. It’s a great way to combine socialising and keeping fit and with many health centres providing the equipment and venue – What are you waiting for???