Unlocking Longevity in Pickleball: The Steve Deakin Approach

Pickleball is more than just a game; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, there’s always something new to learn. Today, we’re diving into the secrets of one of the sport’s most inspiring players, Steve Deakin, and how he maintains peak performance at 50.

Steve shares his balanced approach, combining mindset, consistent training, and a recent addition—Mitopure® (Urolithin A). Read on to discover how he maximizes each game and his strategy for staying competitive for years to come.

Pre-Match Prep

For many players, getting on the court is the highlight of the day. However, what truly makes a difference in your success in a match is the preparation that happens before you even set foot on the court. Preparation is both a physical and mental strategy, taking into account training, fuel, and mindset. 

Steve emphasizes the importance of routines, which he commits to “every single time. Zero variation.” His pre-match routine is a masterclass in preparation. Here are some of his top tips:

• Pre-Match Prep: Steve’s match day preparation begins well in advance. From analyzing his competitors to meticulously packing his gear, he ensures he’s set up for success.

“The night before a match, I will watch film and come up with 3 separate game plans. This way I can shift on the fly if something does not go the way I expect during the match.”

Additionally, he’ll lay out his clothes the night before and make sure his bag is packed so all he has to think about on game day is the match ahead.

What’s in his bag? 

“I carry 5 paddles, compression arm sleeves, balls, grip wrap, water bottles, change of clothes, hydration mix, extra shoes and the same energy bars. Ready to rock!”

• Warm-Up Wisely: Steve shares that he is a “creature of habit” when it comes to his warm-up routine.

“However, match times and court availability on site can sometimes not allow for duplication, so I have to be prepared to make adjustments.”

• Fuel-Up with Nutrition: A balanced meal rich in proteins and carbs is critical for sustained energy to get through the game.

“My favorite food always depends on match time. I crush a large breakfast in the morning, which includes eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, toast, fruit, and lots of coffee to get the body activated. Afternoon matches are typically followed by a steak bowl about 2.5 hours before with lots of water.”

The Long Game: Sustaining Health and Performance

As a 50-year-old athlete, Steve’s approach to health is just as crucial as his game strategy. Pickleball is a sport that can be enjoyed at any age, and Steve’s plan for longevity ensures he remains competitive. Here’s how he does it.

• Staying Strong for the Long Haul: Focused training keeps you strong, agile, and sharp.

“I very simply hit the gym almost every morning for a training regime. My general philosophy is focused around drill based practices and training sessions. If I have a tournament in 3-4 weeks, I will drill skills that I feel need refinement for 80% of my court time and rec play for the remaining 20%.”

• Sleep is Key: The importance of adequate rest and recovery can’t be understated.

“I will try to get 10 hours of sleep each night for a few days prior as it helps me recover faster and play harder for longer. I’m a hard core minimum 8 hours per night of sleep.”

• Old-Fashioned Approaches to Recovery: While many athletes turn to cold plunges, red light therapy, and other high-tech devices for recovery, Steve prefers a simpler approach.

“I’m a bit old fashioned and don’t hook myself up to machines or use thera-guns much. I’m a non drinker and non smoker and I work hard to stay mentally healthy as I believe that keeps me competing at my best.”

• Dietary Supplements:  Here, Steve also likes to keep it simple.  

“I have always been an ‘all natural’ athlete and was not a big user of supplements (besides creatine) when training hard off court. I’ve recently added Mitopure to my daily routine and have noticed a substantial difference in my overall energy level throughout the day. I don’t wake up quite as sore as I used to in the morning either.”

The Power of Mitopure for Performance and Active Aging

Mitopure is the first and only clinically validated Urolithin A supplement, transforming how both professional athletes and everyday enthusiasts think about performance. By targeting mitochondria, the powerhouses within our cells, Mitopure promotes cellular renewal and has been clinically proven to increase cellular energy, as well as muscle strength and endurance.

Words of Advice from Steve 

Steve’s advice for getting on the court?

“Relax and have fun. Choose a partner that you truly like and enjoy spending time with on and off the court.” 

His dedication to consistent practice, thoughtful preparation, and smart supplementation offers a powerful model for staying competitive at any age. With Steve’s approach to training, recovery, and nutrition, players of all levels can find inspiration to play their best game now—and for years to come.