Club Spotlight - Table Tennis
Can the game of "ping pong" actually change your brain? According to The Athletic, studies suggest table tennis has the power to alter brain structure and function, potentially helping us live longer. While the term "Ping Pong" is a historic trademark for the game alternatively known as table tennis, the sport itself has become a serious tool for health. In February 2024, Dr. Antonio Barbera brought NeuroPong to the St. George Rec Center from Colorado where he developed it. This specialized program helps those with neurodegenerative disorders, like Parkinson’s and MS, build new neural pathways through quick decision-making and hand-eye coordination. Today, the program at the Rec Center boasts over 30 participants and 20 coaches.
Seeing these benefits, ICL established its own beginner and intermediate classes at the Rec Center. Held in the same air- conditioned auxiliary gym as NeuroPong, our classes meet at noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Our goal is to bring those same neurological and physical gains to the ICL community, wrapped in the social fun of singles and doubles play. Our table tennis instructors are living proof of the sport's impact. Three of our four ICL teachers also volunteer with NeuroPong. Despite facing significant health challenges—including pancreatic cancer and heart issues—they continue to play and teach at a high level. They attribute much of their resilience and health to keeping a paddle in their hands. ICL table tennis runs year-round - even through the summer! With ten tables on a professional wooden floor, it is truly one of the best places in Utah to play. We invite you to join us at noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays to experience the fun and the "brain boost" for yourself. Register at icl.utahtech.edu. Look for Table Tennis under "Annual Clubs." ICL Table Tennis runs year-round at the St. George Rec Center.
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ICL Lifelong Learning
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