Bill Gates credits five decades of pickleball for his fitness at 70

At 70, Bill Gates appears energetic and physically active. The Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist says his fitness routine is not built on strict gym sessions or diets but on pickleball, a sport he has played for over 50 years.

Pickleball blends elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. It’s straightforward to pick up, gentle on joints, and suitable for people across age groups. Gates first tried the paddle as a teenager and still enjoys the game as a way to exercise and connect with family and friends.

A Lifelong Passion for Pickleball

In a 2022 blog post, Gates described himself as a lifelong enthusiast, saying, “I’ve been a ‘pickler’ for more than 50 years.” What began as a niche pastime has grown into one of America’s fastest-rising sports, now played by roughly 4.8 million people nationwide. Participation surged by nearly 40% in just two years.

He notes the sport’s appeal lies in how quickly beginners can learn. “It takes only a few minutes to learn the basics,” he wrote. The slower ball speed compared with tennis makes rallies easier, and matches are typically short and enjoyable.

What Makes Pickleball So Special?

Gates highlights the social side of pickleball as much as the exercise. “I love playing with friends and family,” he said, adding that the game brings people together. He often plays at least once weekly and more frequently during warmer months.

The sport requires minimal equipment — a net, paddle and ball — and can be played indoors or outdoors, on compact courts or even in a backyard, making it accessible for many.

The Health Benefits of Pickleball

Medical experts and recent reviews, including a Cleveland Clinic report (2023), say pickleball supports both physical and mental health. Regular play can:

Improve cardiovascular fitness – It helps build stamina and can aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Strengthen muscles and bones – The repeated motions and movement help maintain muscle tone and bone health.

Enhance balance and coordination – Quick, low-impact footwork improves stability and control.

Support cognitive function – Fast decision-making and focus during play help keep the mind engaged.

Clinicians recommend warming up, staying hydrated, and wearing suitable footwear to lower injury risk, particularly for older adults.

Pickleball: The Sport Everyone Loves

The game has also attracted celebrities and public figures. Names such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Aamir Khan, Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt have been seen playing. For many, pickleball mixes fitness with social interaction.

For tech leaders like Gates, the sport doubles as stress relief. After long workdays, he says pickleball helps him unwind, sharpen his focus and feel younger.

A Lesson in Simple Fitness

Gates’ experience shows that staying healthy can be simple: find a pleasurable activity and do it consistently. He believes enjoyment and routine are central to long-term wellbeing, and for him, pickleball provides both.