Disclaimer: The information in this article is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health professional before starting any exercise programme or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Table tennis gives older adults a social way to move, practise coordination and make quick decisions. Current evidence suggests regular, coached play may improve balance and some thinking skills. The research is promising, but it does not show that table tennis can prevent falls or treat a medical condition.
What the research found
A 2026 review pooled 14 trials involving 1,565 people. Participants who completed table tennis programmes had better balance and cognitive test results than control groups. The older-adult subgroup also improved in both areas.
The review found large differences between the trials, including their participants, programme lengths and test methods. The authors also identified methodological limits. This means the results support table tennis as a useful activity option, not as a guaranteed health treatment.
Why the game suits different ability levels
Each rally combines short movements, hand-eye coordination and fast choices about where to return the ball. Players can change the pace, use doubles to cover less space or practise simple strokes before playing games.
That flexibility matters, but a session still needs to match the player. Before attending, ask the organiser about beginner coaching, rest breaks, venue access, equipment and the usual pace. People returning after illness or managing a health condition should follow advice from their health professional.
How club play creates social contact
The social benefit comes from regular contact, shared games and a reason to return. An Australian example shows what that can look like. In 2020, ABC News visited the South Tweed Sports Table Tennis Club, which had 60 members aged from 60 to 100.
The club's oldest member, Teddy Marchwicki, was 100 and still played matches. Club secretary Cec Shaw, then 99, had played since 1940 and returned to veteran competition in later life. Their experience shows how one club supported both long-term play and friendships.
How to find a suitable session
Start with table tennis listings on KeepActive, then contact several nearby organisers. Ask whether they run social, beginner, seniors or veterans sessions. Check the cost, booking rules and whether bats are available before your first visit.
A good first session should let you learn at a comfortable pace. You do not need to compete. If the group is too fast or the venue is hard to use, ask another local organiser about a better fit.
Where table tennis fits in an activity plan
Table tennis can cover movement, balance and coordination, but it is only one part of an active week. Australia's updated activity mix recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity on most days. It also includes strength work on two or more days and mobility, balance and coordination work on three or more days.
The right role for table tennis depends on the session's pace and your needs. It can be a regular social activity while other exercises cover strength and any gaps in your weekly movement.
