5 Simple Ways to Level Up Your Pickleball Game
Pickleball has a funny way of pulling people in. One day you are just trying it out for fun, and the next you are watching videos, buying paddles and thinking about how to get better. The good news is that you do not need to train like a professional athlete to improve. A few smart habits can make a big difference on the court.
Here are five simple ways to start playing better pickleball, starting this week.
Source : The Dink Pickleball
Move before you hit
One of the biggest mistakes players make is standing still and reaching for the ball. Pickleball moves fast, and good positioning is what gives you control. Try to stay light on your feet and recover to the middle after every shot. When you move into position early, you will feel more balanced and your shots will become more consistent.
Learn to love the soft game
Many new players think pickleball is about hitting hard. In reality, most points are won with soft shots at the kitchen line. Dinks, drops and gentle resets force your opponent to hit the ball up, which creates chances for you to attack. The better your soft game, the more you can control the pace of the rally.
Make your serve and return work for you
Your serve does not have to be powerful, but it should be purposeful. Aim deep so your opponent has less time to attack. The same goes for your return. A deep return gives you time to move forward and get into a good position at the net. This simple habit alone can change how many points you win.
Play the percentages
Pickleball rewards patience. Instead of going for risky winners, focus on high percentage shots. Hit cross court when possible, target the weaker side of your opponent and wait for the right ball to attack. Fewer mistakes almost always lead to more wins.
Get stronger off the court
You do not need to lift heavy weights to become a better pickleball player. A little strength and mobility training goes a long way. Strong legs help you move faster, a stable core keeps you balanced and healthy shoulders make your shots smoother. When your body feels better, your game improves too.
Pickleball is a sport you can enjoy for years, but it is also a sport where small improvements add up quickly. Try working on just one of these tips each week and you will be surprised how fast your game starts to level up.