I had the pleasure of speaking with Lydia Hirt, Vice President of Marketing for Life Time—the largest operator of pickleball courts in the world. We explored the sport’s rapid growth, its deeper impact on people’s lives—and how Life Time is stepping in to shape the future of pickleball.
Lydia found pickleball during the pandemic—a simple family activity that soon transformed into a life-altering passion. What began as a way to connect with her parents became a career path and personal mission.
Her story mirrors countless others, including my own: a casual game becomes a calling.
From New York City to national clubs, Lydia has witnessed the challenges of finding places to play. Through her efforts, first with City Pickle and now with Life Time, she’s helping open doors for more players to experience the sport’s joy and community.
Life Time’s Commitment to Growing the Game
Life Time, as you might know, is the largest operator of pickleball courts in the world. But the conversation in this episode went beyond infrastructure to talk about identity and how pickleball changes who we are, how we connect, and how we show up in our own lives.
Life Time’s growth in pickleball is staggering. Over 795 courts. More than two million moments of play in less than six months. It’s expanding hours, adding courts, and ensuring that pickleball is as accessible as possible.
What is more exciting is what those numbers represent: more people stepping onto courts, testing themselves, building confidence, and—yes—experiencing joy.
Lydia described Life Time’s vision of being a “home away from home.” It’s not just about the courts—it’s about who you get to become when you walk onto them.
Innovation in Equipment: The LT Ball
Now, if you’ve been around the sport, you know the frustration that come with balls: one game it bounces fine, the next it’s dead. Lydia introduced me to Life Time’s new LT ball, designed by their founder, who’s also an engineer.
It has 48 chamfered-edge holes and durable two-piece construction, this ball is designed for consistent play and sustainability.
Pro players are taking notice. Zane Navratil even called it “the best bouncing ball” he’s played with. And now, it’s being used in major tournaments like the PPA and MLP events in San Clemente.
You can try the LT ball yourself by visiting the LT Shop or Pickleball Central.
The Deeper Impact: Pickleball as a Lifestyle
Perhaps the most touching part of our conversation was hearing Lydia talk about playing with her 71-year-old father.
Not just playing—but winning. Competing. Laughing. Connecting. That’s the gift this sport offers us: it brings us together across generations, and it reminds us that age isn’t a barrier—it’s part of the story.
Lydia calls it the “pickleball lifestyle”—from the court to the café, it’s about movement, mindset, and meaningful relationships.
Want to get more out of your game? Download the free Prepare to Play Guide to help you mentally warm up and bring your best self to the court.
Tony Roig
Hola. Hello. Konichiwa. After 40 years playing tennis, I am now a full-time pickleball player and professional. As a 5.0 rated Senior Pro Pickleball Player and an IPTPA-certified Master Teaching Professional, my focus is on helping players like you learn to play their best pickleball. In 2016, shortly after starting to play pickleball, my friend Tom and I jumped into the highest division at the first US Open in Naples, Florida. That morning it became clear just how much there is to learn in this seemingly simple sport – a lifetime of learning if you so choose. Since 2018, I have been on a mission to share my knowledge of pickleball so other players can enjoy the game at a higher level and attain their pickleball objectives. When not studying or playing pickleball, I like to travel with my other half, Jill.