From 390 Pounds to Owning the Kitchen: How Pickleball Saved Ashley Saddler’s Life
By Richard Walsh, Pickleball Changes Lives
For over two years, Ashley Saddler has been a driving force of inspiration within the Pickleball Changes Lives community. Tipping the scales at 390 pounds when his health journey began, Saddler decided it was time for a major lifestyle shift. Today, 72 pounds lighter and fueled by an undeniable passion for the game, Saddler sits at 318 pounds and is more motivated than ever. In a recent interview with Richie Walsh, Saddler shared how picking up a paddle became the ultimate catalyst for his incredible transformation.
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A Catalyst for Complete Fitness
Saddler’s pickleball journey began with a simple internet search. Already going to the gym to work on his weight loss, he was looking for an active sport to complement his routine, so he bought a paddle and hit the courts. The results were immediate and profound. “I burn so many calories when I play,” Saddler explains, noting that his desire for optimal performance on the court actually drives him to make healthier dietary choices, primarily through simple calorie counting.
Far from replacing his gym workouts, pickleball has become the anchor of his entire fitness routine. The sport provides the motivation he needs to consistently tackle his resistance exercises and HIIT training off the court, while improving his movement and decision-making through on-court repetition and pickleball strategy fundamentals.
Breaking the Chains of Isolation
While the physical changes are astounding, the mental and emotional shifts have been equally life-altering. For years, Saddler battled sadness and depression, often isolating himself and withdrawing from social outings. Pickleball changed that narrative completely. “Pickleball has got me a whole new group of friends who really encourage me on my journey,” he shares.
Playing in South Florida, particularly at the Diadem Pickleball Complex, he has found a remarkably supportive and welcoming community. The local coaches have played a pivotal role in his recovery, consistently pushing him to strive for greatness and better himself, reflecting the sport’s growth across the USA pickleball scene.
The Journey Continues
Though he has dropped an impressive 72 pounds by combining pickleball with his gym routine, Saddler knows his health journey is far from over. “I have a long way to go,” he admits. “I’m just going to keep pushing and keep losing”.
For others looking to use pickleball to start a new fitness routine or drop weight, Saddler offers simple but powerful advice: take lessons from a coach, get out on the courts, and be completely consistent with your training. As he looks toward his future weight-loss goals, pickleball remains the vital key to keeping him active and competitive. “It will change your life like it did mine,” he promises.
Chris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at all levels of pickleball. Chris is also an avid player, currently struggling to make the breakthrough from 4.0 to 4.5.