To say pickleball has changed my life doesn't do it justice.

There is something to be said about an activity that brings people together from all walks of life…enter pickleball. One of the most social and fun sports that I’ve had the pleasure of playing, to say pickleball has changed my life doesn’t do it justice. But let me try to put it in perspective…

I was walking through my local YMCA after a workout and heard that ever familiar pop, pop, pop…and I thought to myself, what is that sound?! Sticking my head through the basketball gym doors, I saw a gentleman laughing and hitting a plastic ball over a net with a group of ladies. And I thought to myself…

What the heck is going on here, that looks like fun!

Needless to say, I stepped onto those courts for the 1^st time and quickly made some new friends. That same gentleman became a mentor and convinced me to become a coach…and the rest, as they say, is history. But my journey had only just begun, and this wonderful sport has now become a way of life.

If I were to pull up my contact list from my phone, it’s safe to say that more than 75% of that list is comprised of people that I have been lucky enough to have met because of pickleball. And that’s not counting the numerous texts from people from around the world that I haven’t yet saved!

So why pickleball and what keeps me coming back for more?

Being able to connect with people in a fun and engaging manner has never been easier or more authentic, than competing with or against those same people on the courts. Most of the time, it’s game on and when’s it all said and done, I’d safely say that I’ve made at least a new friend or two every time.

But it’s been a bit of a challenge when it comes to remaining healthy or preventing injuries. Some of these challenges date back to my time in the military, and unfortunately, I’ve found myself on the end of recovering or extended periods of time staying off those very same courts that I’ve come to love.

How am I able to best protect myself and create longevity in this sport?

I’ve been lucky enough to discover people that I enjoy being around, working with, and creating these types of stories that I hope can provide inspiration many things really are possible when you surround yourself with the right community and partners.

Enter OS1st and the amazing team that has created a few products that help me to remain healthy and minimize injuries while I am on the courts playing or coaching. Some of my favorite products that I use daily include the Pickleball sock, Performance Arm Sleeves, and Ankle Bracing Sleeve.

What is so special about what they do and how they do it?

With a combination of impact protection, blister prevention, and cushion in high-friction areas, the pickleball sock and ankle bracing sleeve helps to minimize the wear and tear on my feet. The performance arm sleeves help me to recover just a bit faster while also protecting me from the sun.

So as each and every one of you are getting ready to visit your courts for some pickleball action, take a moment to think about what you are doing to remain healthy and minimize injuries. Happy National Pickleball Month and visit the Pickleball Sock to find your local OS1st retailer.

- Sonny Tannan

Sonny Tannan