The Lexington Pickleball Club recently completed a Community Health and Wellness Survey of its membership, and what our members told us is worth sharing with the broader Lexington community.

Lexington Pickleball Club (LPC) is a non-profit recreational pickleball club in its fourth year, offering leveled pickleball sessions, social leagues and skills workshops to adults in Lexington and the surrounding communities. In May 2026, 223 of our 1,430 members responded to a survey designed by club leadership—including a physician, a nurse practitioner, and a public health researcher—that asked a simple question: “Is LPC actually making a difference in your life?”. The answer, in our members’ own words, was a resounding YES!

Seven in ten active members reported being more physically active since joining LPC. More than half reported improved fitness. Nearly all, 98%, said the sessions were fun and that other players were kind to them. Those numbers alone are encouraging. 

However, what surprised us most was the change members reported in their social well-being since joining LPC. Roughly eight in ten active members said their friend group had broadened. The same proportion reported making friends outside their usual social circle and age group. These are examples of cross-generational, cross-community connections that are increasingly rare in our society and vitally important to one’s health and wellbeing, especially as adults age. More than half of our members reported making new friends they could count on. Thirty-eight percent said they felt less lonely than they did before joining LPC. In a moment when loneliness among older adults has been declared a national public health crisis, these numbers matter.

The survey also highlighted areas for improvement. Open play sessions fill up quickly and many of our working members cannot attend our weekday daytime sessions. With our membership now exceeding 1,500, we are actively seeking ways to expand capacity and improve access for our members.

Pickleball is more than a fun game or good exercise. It fosters friendship, kindness, and community connections that enhance overall health and well-being. Many thanks to our members who took the time to tell us so. 

LPC exists because of our members, the generosity of the Town of Lexington and the support of our local community, and for this, we are deeply grateful. 

Doreen Karoll

Beth Friedlander

Terry Moore

On Behalf of the LPC Board of Directors

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