Johnna Stalnaker, a 61-year-old advisor with 1st Phorm and a USA Pickleball ambassador for the Northern Mid-Atlantic region, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few years. Her journey from struggling with weight management and health issues to becoming an avid pickleball player and fitness enthusiast is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we delve into her past challenges, the pivotal role pickleball played in her transformation, and her future goals.
Before Pickleball: A Struggle with Weight and Health
“I have struggled with being overweight my entire life,” Johnna reveals. Despite teaching yoga for a decade and incorporating walking into her routine, she faced significant obstacles. Her weight impacted every facet of her life, from causing chronic knee pain to leading to a heart attack in 2008. This health scare prompted her to make dietary changes and start walking regularly.
Johnna’s weight also brought several health concerns. “I had to take medicine as a result of high blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides being off,” she explains. Additionally, she experienced severe snoring, requiring a sleep study, and frequent steroid injections for her knees.
The catalyst for change came when Johnna met a special person and moved to Florida. “The heat was bothering me so bad. I desperately wanted to be healthier and happy in my new life,” she shares. This desire for a healthier lifestyle led her to explore new activities and ultimately discover pickleball.
Discovering Pickleball: A New Beginning
Johnna’s introduction to pickleball came through her involvement with 1st Phorm, which promotes an active lifestyle alongside nutrition. Initially, she started with walking and yoga, but as she lost weight, she began strength training. Her curiosity about pickleball was sparked during a visit to a local park. “We went for a drive to a local park and watched some people playing PB. I thought it looked like a fun activity and we came home and purchased a beginner PB set from Amazon,” she recounts.
Starting as a complete novice, Johnna faced challenges with court skills, footwork, and hand-eye coordination. “I had NEVER played any sport my entire life,” she admits. However, her partner, Joe, with his background in handball, patiently taught her the ropes. They began with singles games, gradually building confidence and skill.
The early stages of playing pickleball were demanding. “I was still 80 pounds overweight at that point, but I was eager to keep playing this newfound fun activity,” Johnna says. Despite the initial difficulty, the enjoyment and cardio benefits kept her motivated. “It didn’t feel like work because it was so much fun. Meanwhile, I was getting a fabulous cardio workout!”
Weight Loss and Transformation: From Struggles to Success
Johnna’s weight loss journey took a significant turn when she joined 1st Phorm on August 11, 2021. “I started following the plan of counting macros and incorporating a lot of protein into my diet. It was a new world for me,” she explains. This approach marked a shift from calorie counting to understanding the role of protein, carbs, and fats in her diet.
Pickleball played a crucial role in her transformation. “Losing weight STARTS WITH NUTRITION, then pickleball plays an important part of becoming active,” she emphasizes. Her commitment to pickleball grew as she progressed from playing for 30 minutes to routinely engaging in 2-3 hour sessions. “It’s literally the best cardio workout I get,” she notes, highlighting improvements in her heart health and oxygen saturation levels.
Johnna’s enhanced energy levels, mood, and sleep patterns are notable benefits of her active lifestyle. “There’s really something to be said for the endorphins that are released as a result of being involved in activity,” she observes. Her improved sleep quality and increased energy have become integral parts of her daily routine.
Read More Inspiring Pickleball Weight Loss Stories Here
Lifestyle and Community: Embracing the Pickleball World
Pickleball has seamlessly integrated into Johnna’s lifestyle. “When I’m not playing, I often think about when I will be,” she says. Her passion for the sport has led her to travel for tournaments, forge new friendships, and immerse herself in the pickleball community. “I have made so many friends that have become very good friends as a result of this game,” she adds.
Playing at least five days a week has become a norm for Johnna. “I play at least 5 days a week. 2+ hours each time,” she states. The support and encouragement from the pickleball community have been instrumental in her journey. “My PB friends have witnessed my weight loss transformation and growth as a player,” she reveals.
Johnna’s involvement in introducing pickleball to her small community in West Virginia is a testament to her dedication. “I worked with the mayor and a local company to paint official lines on a basketball court and start introducing PB to the community,” she explains. Her efforts to spread the sport have led to increased local participation and the establishment of indoor play venues.
Looking Forward: Goals and Advice
Johnna’s future goals include continuing her journey and helping others achieve similar success. “I want to continue this journey and help other people achieve what I have done,” she says.
For those considering pickleball for weight loss and improved health, Johnna’s advice is clear: “Do it! But join a plan that teaches you about nutrition and holds you accountable. I love 1st Phorm because it does just that.” She emphasizes that good nutrition is about fueling the body, not starving it, and encourages newcomers to find a local group or partner to start playing.
Photo by Edward Linsmier
Reflecting on her journey, Johnna concludes, “Pickleball has changed my life for the better! I feel I live the PB lifestyle. Get your life in order before you start playing because that’s all you will want to do once you start.” Her story is a powerful reminder of how passion, commitment, and community can lead to transformative change.
Join Johnna’s Facebook Free Spirit Fitness Group
Final Thoughts
In summary, Johnna Stalnaker’s journey from struggling with weight and health issues to thriving through pickleball and becoming an Ambassador for USA Pickleball is a perfect demonstration towards the power of perseverance and consistent daily habitual changes. Her story inspires others to embrace new challenges, seek support, and find joy in their fitness journeys.
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