Ever caught a pickleball match where a player suddenly zips around the kitchen to land a spectacular shot? You might have just witnessed a Bert, one of the most thrilling and strategic shots in the game.
This advanced move is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a game-changer.
What Exactly is a Bert in Pickleball?
The Bert is a rare and advanced shot similar to an Erne, but with a twist. Unlike an Erne, which involves jumping around the kitchen on your own side, the Bert takes you to your partner’s side of the court. The player executes the shot by darting around the kitchen on their partner’s side, making a swift return that surprises opponents.
It’s named after Bert from Sesame Street, naturally pairing with the Erne, which is named after Ernie—their partnership reflects how well these shots complement each other on the court.
Here’s a perfect Bert:
Why Use the Bert Shot?
The Bert isn’t just flashy—it’s highly effective. Here are some compelling reasons why adding the Bert to your skillset could make a big difference:
- Pressure Your Opponents: By positioning yourself outside of the kitchen and intercepting the ball, you force your opponents to react under pressure, increasing the chance they will make errors.
- Change the Dynamics: The Bert is especially useful when one of your opponents targets your partner. By executing this move, you can get more involved and disrupt their rhythm.
- Surprise Element: This shot often catches your opponents off guard due to the unexpected angle, giving you an instant advantage.
- Increase Court Coverage: When paired well, the Bert allows your team to cover more ground, making it difficult for opponents to find open spaces on the court.
How to Execute a Perfect Bert
Mastering the Bert takes agility, timing, and good communication with your partner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you incorporate it into your game:
- Plan Ahead: The Bert is all about anticipation. You want to encourage your opponent to hit toward a sideline, ideally near the kitchen line. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page.
- Wait for the Right Moment: Begin moving only when your opponent is about to hit the ball. This delayed movement keeps your intentions hidden until the last second, adding an element of surprise.
- Move Around the Kitchen: Zip around the kitchen on your partner’s side, positioning yourself just outside the non-volley zone. Depending on your positioning, you may run around or jump over the kitchen.
- Re-establish Positioning: Make sure you land outside of the non-volley zone with both feet, as touching the kitchen while hitting a volley is considered a fault.
- Strike with Confidence: Execute a quick and sharp shot aimed at an unexpected angle to keep your opponents scrambling.
- Recover Quickly: After making your move, return to a balanced position to be ready for the next shot.
Check out how it’s done:
Practical Tips for Practicing the Bert
- Footwork Matters: Footwork is key to mastering the Bert. Start with simple side-steps and practice maintaining your balance while moving swiftly.
- Train with Your Partner: Since the Bert involves coordination with your partner, practice together to improve timing and communication.
- Stay Agile: Develop agility drills that improve your ability to move sideways and pivot quickly—these skills are crucial for executing a Bert effectively.
- Relax Your Grip: A relaxed paddle grip will make it easier to switch between forehand and backhand, providing versatility when you execute the Bert.
Gear Up for Success
Mastering the Bert is about skill, timing, and confidence—but having the right gear can also make a huge difference. Choose lightweight, flexible shoes that provide good traction to help you move quickly around the court.
Comfortable, moisture-wicking apparel can also ensure you stay cool and focused during these high-energy plays.
A rare back to back Bert & Erne:
Ready to Add Some Bert Flair to Your Game?
The Bert is an exciting and strategic move that can change the dynamic of a pickleball match in your favor. It demands agility, confidence, and clear communication with your partner—all of which will naturally improve other aspects of your game.
Start by practicing the basics, perfect your footwork, and before long, you’ll be surprising your opponents with one of pickleball’s most advanced shots. 💪
