In the dynamic world of pickleball, becoming a less predictable player is a game-changer. It’s not just about mastering a wide array of shots but also about the subtleties that make a big difference. One such subtlety is the Paddle Return Position (PRP), a technique that enhances efficiency on the court by preparing you for the next shot with optimal positioning.
Pro pickleball player and coach Will East, shares invaluable insights and tips alongside a instructional video, to help you incorporate PRP into your game strategy effectively.
What is Paddle Return Position (PRP)?
PRP refers to the consistent stance and paddle placement a player adopts after executing any shot, whether it’s a dink, a drive, or a volley. This strategic positioning is crucial for maintaining readiness and disguising your next move from opponents.
Will East emphasizes the importance of returning your paddle to a neutral, ready position, which he personally prefers on the backand side, hovering over the kitchen line. This method not only prepares you for a variety of shots but also helps in quick and unpredictable response plays.
Learning from the Pros: Watch Pro Player Will East in Action
There’s nothing like seeing it in action with a pro to get the hang of PRP. Let’s zoom in on Will East – not just a top-notch pickleball player, but also a coach we love for his effective tips and drill.
Check out more of Will’s pro tips and videos:
- Pro tips for perfecting your third shot drop
- Unlocking power in your pickleball drives
- Kitchen line play: using open and closed stances
Implementing PRP in Your Game
Adopting PRP can significantly enhance your playing efficiency by ensuring you’re always in the best position to respond to an incoming ball.
Here are a few steps to integrate PRP into your playing style:
- Consistent Stance: Practice returning to your preferred PRP stance after every shot. Whether it’s on your backhand side, forehand, or a neutral position, consistency is key.
- Disguise Your Shots: Utilize PRP to obscure your shot intentions. A consistent return position makes it difficult for opponents to read your next move, allowing you to surprise them with unexpected shots.
- Drill Practice: Incorporate PRP drills into your training routine. Focus on transitioning between shots from your PRP, enhancing muscle memory and reaction time.
- Video Analysis: Watch videos of players like Dekel Bar to observe and learn how they implement PRP in matches. Analyzing their techniques can provide valuable insights into improving your own game.
- Coaching Feedback: If possible, work with a coach who can provide feedback on your PRP technique and suggest adjustments to optimize your performance.
Why PRP Matters: Insights from Dekel Bar
Highlighting the effectiveness of PRP, Will East points to the playing style of Dekel Bar, a fellow pro player known for his exceptional court efficiency. Bar’s mastery over PRP allows him to seamlessly transition between shots, making it challenging for opponents to predict his next move.
The key to his success lies in the uniformity of his shot preparation, where each movement begins from the same poised stance, rendering his rolls, dinks, and drives nearly indistinguishable until executed.
To Sum Up
Getting the hang of the Paddle Return Position, or PRP for short, can really up your pickleball game. It’s one of those clever little strategies that might seem small but packs a big punch on the court.
When you watch pros like Will East and keep an eye on how the top players do it, you’ll start to see how adding PRP to your toolkit can make a huge difference. It’s all about being one step ahead, keeping your opponents guessing, and just becoming a smoother, more savvy player.
