Fueling for Pickleball: What to Eat and Drink Before You Play

From Snacks to Sips—What Your Body Needs to Perform Its Best

We love a good rally as much as anyone, but let’s be clear—pickleball is still a sport. It may be fun, social, and wildly addictive, but it also requires energy, focus, and quick reactions. And if you're running on fumes (or worse, on nothing but caffeine and hope), you're not doing yourself any favors out there.

Whether you're playing a quick game with friends or locking in for a full morning of round robins, what you eat and drink before you play matters. A lot.

First up hydrate like it’s your job
Water is obvious, but showing up with a reusable bottle of room-temp water and sipping like a sparrow isn’t going to cut it—especially in warm weather. Start hydrating at least an hour before you play. We love LMNT or Liquid I.V. if you need a little extra electrolyte support without the sugar crash. Nuun Sport tablets are great too, especially for early morning matches when you’re not quite ready for food.

Food wise think light but lasting
You want carbs for quick energy, a little protein for staying power, and a tiny bit of fat to round things out. This is not the time for a heavy breakfast burrito or a sad granola bar. Try a slice of Dave’s Killer Bread with almond butter and banana. Or Greek yogurt with honey and a handful of berries. Oats with chia seeds and a scoop of protein powder? Yes please.

Need something on the go
RXBARs are a solid choice, especially the Chocolate Sea Salt one. If you’re more of a savory person, a hard-boiled egg and a few whole grain crackers can do the trick. Just skip anything greasy or overly processed—you want to feel light on your feet, not like you’re digesting a bowling ball mid-point.

Coffee is okay energy drinks not so much
A cup of coffee is fine (and frankly essential for some of us) but maybe skip the third espresso shot. And if your “pre-workout” drink comes in a neon can with 300mg of caffeine, save it for a gym day.

Bottom line
What you put in your body before you play will show up on the court—for better or worse. So fuel smart, hydrate well, and go play like you mean it. Your legs, brain, and paddle partner will thank you.