Premium gym chain Bodytech has added the first purpose-built pickleball court in Manaus to its new complex at Shopping Ponta Negra.
The short answer: Bodytech, one of South America’s leading premium fitness chains, has opened a dedicated pickleball court in its new complex at Shopping Ponta Negra in Manaus. It is the first purpose-built court in the Amazonian capital. Coordinator Roberta Nascimento said the sport’s accessibility makes it suitable for children, professionals and older adults alike.
The relentless geographical spread of pickleball has reached a new frontier this April, as the sport officially establishes a presence in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon. Bodytech, one of South America’s most prominent premium fitness chains, has announced the inclusion of a dedicated pickleball court in its newly constructed complex in Manaus. Situated within Shopping Ponta Negra in the city’s western district, the facility marks the first purpose-built pickleball court in the Amazonian capital. The development is a significant indicator of how rapidly the sport is permeating major urban centres across Brazil, moving beyond traditional racket club settings and directly into high-end retail and wellness environments.
A premium fitness powerhouse
To understand the significance of this development, it is essential to examine Bodytech’s position in the South American fitness market. The company does not operate standard, budget-conscious gyms; rather, it positions itself firmly at the premium end of the health and wellness sector. A typical Bodytech facility is designed as a comprehensive lifestyle destination, integrating state-of-the-art cardiovascular and resistance equipment with boutique group fitness studios, swimming pools, and recovery zones.
The new Manaus location perfectly exemplifies this corporate strategy, boasting over 4,000 square metres of carefully curated floor space. By positioning itself as a provider of holistic well-being rather than a place to lift weights, Bodytech caters to an affluent demographic that expects access to the latest international fitness trends. Consequently, the chain’s decisions regarding which sports to include in its architectural plans serve as a highly reliable barometer for broader market shifts in Brazilian consumer fitness. For a sport still establishing its global footprint, securing a permanent spot in a 4,000-square-metre premium facility is a major endorsement of its longevity.
Lowering the barrier to entry
The decision to allocate valuable square footage to a pickleball court in the Manaus complex was driven by the sport’s unique demographic appeal and its rapid transition from a casual pastime to a structured athletic pursuit. Roberta Nascimento, the coordinator for Bodytech Manaus, outlined the rationale behind the installation, noting the sport’s inherent accessibility.
Nascimento highlighted that pickleball requires significantly less movement across the court compared to traditional racket sports, yet it still delivers a substantial cardiovascular workout while actively improving reflexes and physical conditioning. This lower barrier to entry makes it an ideal addition to a commercial fitness environment, as it can comfortably accommodate children, working professionals, and older adults within the exact same facility. The game mechanics—played on a smaller court with a lower net, a rigid paddle, and a perforated ball—allow for a dynamic that is simple to learn but fast-paced enough to retain interest.
The South American expansion model
This model rapidly accelerates the sport’s credibility in a new region. When a premium brand validates a new sport by dedicating expensive commercial property to it, the activity is instantly perceived not as a fleeting fad, but as a legitimate, aspirational lifestyle choice. The sport has already moved away from being purely recreational in Brazil, evolving into an organised discipline complete with federations and tournaments. Bodytech’s integration feeds directly into this competitive maturation, offering a high-quality environment where the next wave of regional players can hone their skills.
Frequently asked questions
At Bodytech’s new complex in Shopping Ponta Negra, in western Manaus.
Coordinator Roberta Nascimento cited its accessibility and cardiovascular benefits for all ages.
Over 4,000 square metres.
Further reading
- Latest pickleball news from around the world
- Tournament coverage and results
- Rankings and player profiles
- Regional pickleball coverage
Chris Beaumont
Founder and Editor-in-ChiefChris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine, published by World Pickleball Media Ltd. He follows the global game closely, reporting on news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball…
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