In our Born to GO series, we highlight an individual who has gone above and beyond to achieve something remarkable, sharing their inspiring stories that speak to our mission: to keep every body in motion. From elite athletes at the top of their game to everyday people who stay active even in the face of adversity, they embody values we hold high—commitment and dedication—and serve as a source of inspiration to all. Join us as we explore their journeys and celebrate their achievements… and steal a few good tips they’re willing to share!

Personal trainer and Pickleball athlete Beth Robins learned about GO Sleeves in Miami, Florida at the Super Bowl Radio Row event. Initially, she was interested in the benefits of GO Sleeves because several of her former NFL clients experiencing pain had found relief by incorporating the product into their everyday routines. Little did she know that, after being sent home with her own pair, she would soon be using GO Sleeves in her daily routine and sharing them with her other fitness clients and fellow Pickleballers!

Pictured: Beth Robins and friend hiking in Patagonia wearing GO Sleeves knee and calf sleeves under their hiking gear.

First, for readers who don't know, let’s get this out of the way: What the heck is Pickleball, and why is it becoming so popular?

Pickleball is a combination of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It was “invented” in 1965, but in the last decade, it has exploded across the world. It's a game that can be played by older athletes who still enjoy friendly competition and athletes of all ages who are looking for a fast adrenaline rush. Strategy, eye-hand coordination, fast hand speed, and most of all, patience to create shot opportunities are the skills you build as you progress. The best part of Pickleball is the social aspect. You always hear laughter along with the pop-pop sound of the balls. Each game ends with a paddle tap at the net. I didn't know anyone when I moved to California at the end of 2019. I walked onto a court on day 2, and now I have made hundreds of new friends through Pickleball!

Which GO Sleeve products do you use, and how do they help you in your fitness endeavors — include how and when you use them, e.g. before, during, after, etc.

I use the Calf sleeves to address micro tears I get from time to time from Pickleball. If I don’t wear them during a match, I wear them after for recovery. I wish I had discovered them sooner because early on in my Pickleball competing days, there were times I could barely walk! As a 59-year-old competitive athlete, I’m motivated to do all I can to stay healthy, fit, and at the top of my game. I intend to keep this body revving for another 5 decades!

Please describe your fitness routine, including your stretching, cool down, routine, etc.

Pre-game warmups for me mean calisthenics, including shuffling side to side and high knee skipping. Then some light stretches, and we begin with practice shots of cross-court dinking, 3rd shot drops, and groundstrokes. It's more important to stretch the hip flexors, glutes, quads, hamstrings, low back, piriformis (hips to groin), shoulders, and calves AFTER play when you're fully warm and prior to sitting in the car. Knee torque and micro tears in the calves, along with elbow tendonitis, are common Pickleball maladies. Proper warm-up and cool-down are so important, but also conditions that truly benefit from the GO Sleeves products to facilitate recovery while also adding support.

Do you incorporate nutritional, dietary, or supplemental products to be at the top of your game? If yes, please share.

I think that hydration, recovery, and sleep are paramount to playing at optimal levels. As a health coach, I always advocate a balanced diet with added supplements as needed for maintaining a healthy, lean, mean machine. Recommendations would be based on age, health status, and need. Supplements and diet are personal and not a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Essentially, if your diet is poor, your game will suffer. Optimal organic, plant-based nutrients serve all people well rather than processed fast food.