From pre-dawn pickleball training sessions to tournament match points under stadium lights, the life of a professional pickleball player pulses with intensity, purpose, and unwavering dedication. While most of us catch our morning coffee, these athletes are already deep into their first pickleball drill session of the day, pursuing excellence with every serve and return.
We connected with Hannah Blatt, rising star and proud member of Team PB5star, to pull back the curtain on what it truly takes to compete at pickleball's highest level. Drawing from her rich athletic background in squash and other competitive sports, Hannah brings a unique perspective to professional pickleball training. Her approach to the game combines methodical practice drills with passionate play – a philosophy that resonates deeply with our community's commitment to continuous improvement.
Q: What does your typical pickleball training day look like?
"My day starts early," Hannah shares. "After taking care of my dog and having breakfast, I head straight to morning pickleball practice. I dedicate about two hours to drilling and footwork exercises, followed by an hour-long strength training workout. Recovery is crucial, so I make time for the cold plunge, rolling out, and stretching."
The afternoon brings another round of pickleball training. "I spend some time handling emails and creating content before getting back on the court for another two-hour practice session," she explains. "The evening is for recovery, dinner, and resetting for the next day."
Q: How does your training routine change during tournaments?
"Tournament life is completely different," Hannah notes. "You might play competitive matches all day or just an hour or two. The key is being ready at a moment's notice. The venues often have limited food options, so proper fueling takes planning. Days are long, often stretching into the evening, and this intense pickleball schedule continues for three to four days straight."
Whether practicing or competing, Hannah knows the importance of feeling confident on court. You'll often spot her wearing our Side-Split Court Dress, designed for unrestricted movement and superior comfort during intense play. This signature piece combines style with functionality – perfect for players who, like Hannah, demand performance from their apparel through long tournament days.
Q: How do you maintain your fitness level?
"Cross-training is essential in my pickleball training routine," Hannah emphasizes. "I'm in the gym three to four times a week, focusing on weightlifting and cardio. I've recently added road biking to my conditioning program. When I'm home, I aim to be on court twice a day, balancing between pickleball drills and match play."
Q: What are the challenges of being a touring professional?
"The tournament schedule is intense," Hannah admits. "Recently, we were on the professional pickleball circuit for five weeks straight, with barely three days at home to unpack, repack, and maintain our training. Finding a consistent practice routine amid this schedule is challenging but crucial."
Q: How do you manage recovery during tournament weeks?
"Since gym access can be limited during tournaments, I prioritize stretching and recovery. When you're competing intensely for several days, managing soreness and preventing injuries becomes crucial. It's about listening to your body and maintaining both physical and mental well-being during competitive pickleball play."
The path of a professional
Hannah's insights reveal the dedication required to compete at pickleball's highest level. Her structured approach to training, commitment to recovery, and ability to adapt to the demands of tournament play exemplify the professional mindset needed for success in this rapidly growing sport.
At PB5star, we're all about supporting your journey to become a better player. Our gear is designed with your performance in mind, supporting you through every serve, rally, and cool-down. Why not join our community of passionate players who are always looking to improve and have a blast doing it?
Whether you're aiming for professional competition or simply want to enhance your recreational pickleball game, Hannah's training routine offers valuable lessons about the importance of balanced practice, consistent drilling, and proper recovery. Stay connected with Hannah and other Team PB5star athletes as they continue to shape the future of pickleball, demonstrating the perfect blend of passion, dedication, and professional excellence that defines our sport.