ACE Pickleball Club’s Fitness Revolution: In Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, more people are skipping the gym and heading to the pickleball court. One of them is 73-year-old Donna Robertson, who plays regularly at the ACE Pickleball Club. She says it helps her stay active and feel good physically and mentally.
Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in the country. Many players enjoy it not just for the fun, but for the great workout it provides. In May, which is National Mental Health and Physical Fitness Awareness Month, pickleball is proving to be a strong way to support both.
Health Benefits on and off the Court
Studies show that regular exercise lowers the risk of depression and dementia by 20% to 30%. In Oklahoma, more residents are choosing pickleball instead of running on treadmills or lifting weights. Wyatt Vanse, a member specialist at ACE Pickleball Club, explained how pickleball uses the whole body.
“You get low, get your legs involved, have to squat down under the ball, get your arms, shoulder, and forearm involved in that swing.” – (Wyatt Vanse)
Donna Robertson agrees. She wears an Apple Watch to track her steps, heart rate, and calories burned.
“My goal each day is at least 6,000 steps and that is very achievable when you are playing pickleball.” – (Robertson)
A More Enjoyable Way to Exercise
For Robertson, pickleball is much more fun than being in a fitness center.
“You are not in the hot, sweaty gym, pumping iron. You are out here having a good time, laughing, and cutting up.” – (Robertson)
That joy is one reason why so many are making the switch. Players of all ages are drawn to the sport for its mix of exercise, competition, and social connection.
New Courts and Community Growth
Pickleball courts are opening quickly across Green Country to meet the demand. ACE Pickleball Club, located at 2326 East Kenosha Street in Broken Arrow, offers memberships that include court reservations, use of a ball machine, and access to events and tournaments. This kind of facility makes it easy for players to join the community and stay active.
News in Brief: ACE Pickleball Club’s Fitness Revolution
Pickleball is becoming a top choice for fitness in Broken Arrow. Donna Robertson, 73, plays at ACE Pickleball Club to stay active and social. The sport offers full-body workouts and mental health benefits. More courts are opening as interest grows across Oklahoma and the rest of the country.