If you’re as passionate about improving your pickleball game as I am, you’ll find that every little tip and technique can make a significant difference. Recently, I had the chance to watch in action a high-level, seasoned player whose insights have been incredibly valuable in honing my skills.
In this article, I’ll share some of the wisdom imparted on returns, drops, and drives—complete with feedback from our vibrant pickleball community.
1. Perfecting Pickleball Returns
I was making a big mistake in my returns by “running” into the ball instead of properly “loading and transferring” my weight. It sounds like a minor tweak, but wow, it’s really transformed my game!
Instead of approaching the ball with a jog-like lunge, I’ve learned to load my weight onto my right foot just before making contact, then smoothly transferring my weight forward. This technique has resulted in much more consistent and forceful returns. While this movement appears straightforward when observed in professional play, perfecting the timing of this weight shift is essential for effective execution.
☝️ Be sure to also read our article on how to up your game with the ‘chip and charge’ return.
Community Reactions: Tweaking the Return Technique
A fellow player noted, “Just to be clear about your advice on returns, the foot you load on depends on if you’re hitting a forehand or a backhand, correct?”
Absolutely, and it’s these nuances that make all the difference.
2. Refining Drop Shots
Drops were always a bit of a struggle for me; they just felt awkward. Then I picked up a game-changing tip to hit the ball “in front and inside” my body. Imagine tossing a bean bag—that’s how I approach my drop shots now. This little adjustment didn’t just make my shots look smoother, but they became a lot more effective too.
Plus, adding just a slight curve to the paddle, while keeping my wrist steady, added some nice top/side spin, making the ball dip exactly where I intended. Total game changer!
To practice this technique, try a unique drill using a bean bag. Place the bean bag on your paddle and practice moving it back and forth to get used to pushing without depending on wrist action.
Community Success Stories: Better Drops and Returns
“I tested the return and drop techniques today and saw a noticeable improvement—my returns were consistently deeper and the drops were much easier!” shared a community member, highlighting the practical benefits of these adjustments.
3. Driving with Intent: Mastering the Closed Stance
I learned about using a closed stance for drives, which involves coiling around the ball to maximize the transfer of energy into the shot—it’s quite impressive to see in action! At first, this stance felt a bit awkward for me, often resulting in jammed shots and not quite getting the power I wanted.
But as I got a better handle on the importance of proper positioning and how to effectively coil my body, it really started to click. Understanding how to use my body to fuel the shot has been a game-changer.
☝️ Be sure to also read our article on how to unlock power in your drives.
Community Insights: The Edge in Power Driving
One enthusiast explained the benefits of mastering this technique: “Using a closed stance to drive the ball makes it really tricky for opponents to predict whether I’ll go for an ‘inside-out’ shot across the court or drive it straight down the sideline.”
☝️ For more professional tips, take a look at these articles we’ve recently published:
- Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Third Shot Drop
- Using Open and Closed Stances
- Refining Precision Shots with the 4 Corners Drill
How to Effectively Learn By Observing Pros
Learning from pros isn’t just about watching them play; it’s about really studying their game to understand the nuances that make them great. When you’re watching, pay close attention to how they position themselves on the court, how they handle different shots, and what strategies they employ in different situations.
For instance, you might notice a pro’s footwork during a volley or how they adjust their paddle angle for a tricky drop shot.
Here’s a step-by-step approach to really make the most out of watching professional pickleball players:
- Choose One Skill to Focus On: Instead of trying to capture everything a pro does, zero in on one specific skill during a match. It could be something as simple as their serving technique or how they execute a particular shot you struggle with.
- Take Notes: Yes, really! Jot down what stands out about their technique—how they move, the timing of their shots, their court positioning. These notes can be a great reference when you practice.
- Practice One Thing at a Time: Take that one skill you focused on and work it into your practice sessions. For example, if you’ve been watching how a pro serves, spend a week or two just improving your serve, mimicking the mechanics you observed.
- Use Video Feedback: Record your own practice sessions. Compare your videos with clips of the pros. This side-by-side analysis can be incredibly eye-opening and is a great way to monitor your progress.
- Expand Gradually: Once you feel you’ve improved in one area, add another element to your practice sessions. Gradually building your skills this way keeps you from feeling overwhelmed and helps solidify the improvements you’re making.
- Seek Feedback: Share what you’ve learned and practiced with a coach or a more experienced player. They can offer additional insights and help refine your technique.
What We Can Learn from Watching Pros
The key takeaway is to approach your development with a proactive and observant mindset. Learning from the pros doesn’t just involve mimicking their moves; it’s about absorbing the underlying principles that govern their play. It’s watching their positioning, understanding their decision-making, and applying similar discipline to your practice routines.
Above all, be patient and persistent. Mastery is a gradual process, and every bit of effort you put in brings you one step closer to your goals.
So, keep your enthusiasm for improvement alive. Use each session on the court to refine a skill, each game to test a new strategy, and each tournament to gauge your development.
