Pickleball is already one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., but Playkout is taking it to the next level through its tech-based, gamified approach. The fitness studio, based in Dallas, Texas, features pickleball simulators and fitness classes aimed at conditioning pickleball players for better play.
Co-founders Bahigh Acuna and Jorge Guerrero, both with backgrounds in tech and wellness, created a unique concept that combines the fun and competition of racquet sports with cutting-edge technology. Their goal? To make exercise feel more like play than work.
From Tech to Tennis: The Founders’ Journey
Acuna and Guerrero are no strangers to innovation. Before launching Playkout, both were involved in early-stage companies that disrupted their respective industries, such as Spotify. Their passion for movement and wellness sparked the creation of Playkout, which marries physical activity with digital interaction.
At the heart of Playkout’s offering are proprietary, custom-designed pickleball stations equipped with high-tech simulators. These stations track each ball to provide real-time feedback and performance statistics, enabling friendly, casual competition and serious game improvement.
“Unlike a typical match where points last only a few shots before resetting, this serves as a complement to the traditional pickleball experience, rather than a replacement,” Acuna explained.
The company’s patent-pending “phygital” racquet sports solution combines the physical interaction of hitting a ball with a racquet with digital gamification.
Playkout is based on Acuna and Guerrero’s shared belief that exercise should be engaging and social. The pair developed a space where friends can come together for a social experience while still staying active.
“Playkout was born from a desire to make people move in a fun and engaging way,” Acuna explained.
Playkout has fostered a vibrant community through diverse programming and e-tournaments. “These events encourage social interaction and friendly competition, helping members connect and stay engaged,” said Acuna. “Our programming includes skill-building workshops, themed tournaments, and social mixers, all designed to create a supportive and fun environment for players of all levels.”
The company has also become a go-to venue for private events, offering a unique experience for corporate team-building activities and birthday celebrations alike.
Traditional pickleball players have embraced Playkout’s tech-enhanced approach with enthusiasm.
“Many appreciate the added benefits of the gamified experience and hard data that helps them track performance and improvement,” said Acuna. “Overall, the feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive, with players noting improvements in their athletic abilities and overall fitness.”
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
As with any innovative concept, Playkout faced initial challenges in explaining their “phygital” approach.
“There’s nothing like coming and seeing it and experiencing it firsthand,” Acuna said.
To overcome this, they’ve offered discounted introductory packages and have invited professional players to train at their facilities to document improvements in skills and conditioning.
Looking ahead, Playkout plans to introduce its patent-pending racquet sports solution to country clubs, pickleball clubs, entertainment venues, hotels, schools and more. The company continues to update its offering with new features, such as personalized training programs and enhanced analytics.
Acuna’s advice for other pickleball business owners is clear: embrace technology.
“With a tech background, I always advise embracing technology and creatively considering how it can enhance your value proposition,” said Acuna. “In the pickleball and broader racquet sports arena, we’ve witnessed firsthand how offering advanced training tools with gamification and interactive programming enhances the overall experience and makes it more fun and engaging.”
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
