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| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | OCTOBER 2022 | 57 Table Tennis/Ping Pong There is no keener group of enthusiastic, active seniors than our Sun Lakes Table Tennis Group. We congregate on a regular basis to have fun while developing skills we didn't know we had, like hand-eye coordination, which is related to balance. Although there are other things involved, good balance is essential to preventing falls, the number one cause of deadly blunt head trauma in seniors. Playing table tennis is a low-impact, total-body workout for all ages. Arms, legs, core muscles, and back are engaged in hitting this little, white, spin-happy ball. The eyes must track the ball and what type of spin is on it, while a player is moving around and thinking about strategies and tactics. This stimulates the brain to release chemicals called dopamine and serotonin, which increase focus and attention. The mind is cleared of unimportant thoughts, other than putting a shot away on your opponent, or defending against a shot meant to put you away. Either way, especially when playing doubles, whatever the outcome, laughter breaks out as the hapless victim goes down to a better placed ball. No worries, it's not about making light of the misfortune of other players as it is the hilarious sight of arms akimbo splayed in all different directions trying to hit the ball that has already passed her by. As studies have shown, playing table tennis on a regular basis lowers cholesterol and the risk of diabetes, with many reporting lower blood pressure and better sleep. The game is another way to do drills to increase thinking speed and reaction time. There are supplements for this, but they have never been proven to be effective and the cost runs $50-$100 a month or more. Playing table tennis exercises the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, and helps with balance and coordination. It's also a great cardio workout and will burn calories quickly. It's also a fun way to lose weight. It's even good for preventing and treating Parkinson's Disease. It is the world's best brain sport according to Dr. Daniel G Amen. "Table tennis causes you to use many different areas of the brain at once as you are tracking the ball, planning shots and strategies, and figuring out spins. It's like aerobic chess." How about that?! Our group is diverse and inclusive, from ages 55 to over 90 years old, from beginners to some highly ranked individuals, quick to give out tips and rules of the game. Come on over and start having some fun, and make some friends while getting immediate and long term health benefits! For more information or to find out our schedule, contact our coordinator Gary at (805) 722-7427 or John Williams at (951) 489- 9737. We are happy to answer questions and look forward to having you join us.

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