As any pickleball player knows, few things are more frustrating than unintentionally popping up the ball, only to have your opponent slam it back at you. This is a particularly common mistake for beginners, who often struggle with controlling their shots. Understanding why these pop-ups happen and how to prevent them can significantly improve your game, no matter your skill level.
Today, we’ll explore common and not-so-common mistakes that lead to pop-ups and share tips from seasoned players and a pro coach on how to keep your shots low and controlled.
Why Do You Keep Popping Up the Ball in Pickleball?
Pop-ups often occur due to improper technique, timing, or positioning. The good news is that these issues are correctable with practice and the right approach. Here’s a closer look at some of the main reasons behind those frustrating high balls.
The Most Common Mistakes
1. Grip Pressure
One of the most overlooked aspects of pickleball technique is grip pressure. A grip that’s too tight can cause the ball to ricochet off your paddle with too much force, leading to pop-ups.
Player Tip: “If your grip is too tight, your shots will tend to bounce off the paddle much harder and higher. Aim for a grip pressure around three on a scale of 1 to 10 for better control.” This advice helps maintain control and softness in your shots, preventing unnecessary pop-ups.
2. Wrist Action
Using too much wrist action can break the connection between your paddle and shoulder, resulting in unstable and high shots.
Player Tip: “Try to swing from your shoulder rather than your wrist. This keeps the motion smooth and compact, reducing the risk of pop-ups.”
3. Improper Swing Technique
Swinging the paddle like a pendulum requires perfect timing to hit the ball flat. When the wrist is overactive, it often changes the paddle angle, leading to pop-ups.
Player Tip: “Instead, keep your wrist aligned with the side of the paddle and swing flat across the ball as if you’re pushing it over the net. This technique offers more control and tolerance for errors.”
Not-So-Common Mistakes
4. Footwork
Good footwork is crucial to maintaining control over your shots. Poor positioning often forces players to reach for the ball, leading to imprecise contact and pop-ups.
Player Tip: “Move your feet to keep the ball in front of you. Reaching for the ball forces you to compensate with your wrist, increasing the likelihood of pop-ups.”
5. Contact Point
Hitting the ball either too close to or too far from your body can result in poor control and high shots.
Player Tip: “Aim to make contact with your dinks consistently about a foot or two in front of you. Adjust your footwork so you can reach the ball in this optimal position.”
6. Overreaching
Overreaching for a volley can shift your balance and lead to unstable shots.
Player Tip: “Overreaching often results in pop-ups. Instead, take a step back, keep the ball in front of you, and aim for an unattackable shot.”
Tips to Stop Popping Up Those Drops and Dinks
1. Technique:
Grip and Paddle Angle:
- Relax Your Grip: Hold the paddle loosely. A tight grip can make the ball pop up.
- Paddle Angle: Keep your paddle slightly tilted down when you hit the ball. This helps keep it low.
Stance and Positioning:
- Stay Low: Bend your knees and get low to the ground. This gives you better control.
- Balanced Stance: Keep your weight forward on your toes so you can move quickly.
Shot Execution:
- Soft Hands: Use a gentle touch to absorb the ball’s impact and keep it low.
- Follow Through: Follow through gently. Avoid big swings to prevent the ball from popping up.
2. Focus:
- Watch the Ball: Keep your eyes on the ball until it hits your paddle. This improves accuracy.
- Anticipate: Try to predict where the ball is going and position yourself early.
- Consistency Over Power: Focus on making consistent, controlled shots rather than powerful ones.
4. Extra Tips:
- Use the Right Paddle: A paddle designed for control can make a big difference.
- Aim Carefully: Focus on where you want the ball to go, not just getting it over the net.
Check out the video below where our friend and pickleball pro, Will East, shares his top tips and drills to help you stop popping the ball at the kitchen line.
Check out more videos and pro tips from our friends and pickleball coaches:
- Block or Punch Volleys?
- Solo Speedup Drill to Dominate Advanced Play
- Nail the Point-Winning Forehand Flick Volley
The Crucial Tip Every Pickleball Beginner Needs to Master
Reducing pop-ups in pickleball is crucial for beginners because it helps maintain control of the game, improves consistency, and keeps you in a better position at the net. When you keep the ball low, you give your opponent fewer chances to attack, which can lead to winning more points.
Final Player Tip: “One tip I’ve picked up is that I’m not hitting the ball too high but rather too hard for the type of shot I’m hitting. Realizing this allowed me to focus on better drilling my dinks and drops.”
Remember, every pickleball pro was once a beginner. By focusing on reducing pop-ups, you’re laying a solid foundation for your game. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the process of getting better. Happy playing!
