Hey pickleball pals! Let’s settle one of the sport’s most hotly debated topics: If all players are equally skilled, does the team that speeds up first win the point, or is it the team that resets and slows things down? The truth isn’t so black-and-white—it depends on a mix of skill level, timing, positioning, and even psychology.
So, let’s break it down in a way that’s both informative and easy to apply to your game.
What the Data Says
At the pro level, stats show that the counter team often wins. But, it’s not that simple. When executed with precision, speed-ups can win over 50% of the time for top players. In some cases, the best players push that win rate to a whopping 70%. However, at amateur levels, speed-ups tend to dominate more frequently because fewer players have mastered countering and resetting effectively.
The lesson? The effectiveness of speed-ups versus resets hinges on who you’re playing, your skill level, and your ability to execute under pressure. Let’s dive deeper.
Resets vs. Speed-Ups Comparison
| Aspect | Resets | Speed-Ups |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Stay in control, neutralize attacks | Apply pressure, win the rally |
| When to Use | Defensive situations, low balls | Offensive chances, high balls |
| Key Advantages | Reduces errors, extends rallies | Forces mistakes, disrupts rhythm |
| Risks | Won’t win points directly | Can lead to errors if mistimed |
| Skill Level | Useful for all levels | Best for intermediate and up |
| Target | Opponent’s feet or kitchen area | Opponent’s body or weak spots |
The Case for Speed-Ups
Speeding up the ball is a powerful tool—if you know when and how to use it. Here’s why it works:
- Catch Opponents Off-Guard: A well-timed speed-up disrupts the rhythm of a dink rally and forces your opponents to react quickly.
- Force Mistakes: Many players, especially at lower levels, struggle with fast exchanges. If their hands aren’t quick enough, they’ll likely pop the ball up or miss altogether.
- Psychological Edge: Even if a speed-up doesn’t win the point directly, it plants a seed of doubt in your opponents’ minds. They might start second-guessing their dinks or positioning, giving you the upper hand.
If your speed-ups aren’t hitting the mark, check out this video to spot what’s going wrong—and how to fix it for more consistent shots every time:
When to Speed Up
Not all balls are created equal, so choosing the right moment is critical. Here are your go-to scenarios:
- High Balls: If the ball is above net height, it’s prime for a speed-up. The higher the ball, the easier it is to attack downward and control the rally.
- Passive Dinks: A soft, floating dink is a perfect setup. It gives you enough time to wind up for a speed-up without taking unnecessary risks.
- Opponent Out of Position: If your opponents are scrambling or moving, a speed-up can exploit the gaps in their defense.
Pro Tip for Speed-Ups
Aim for vulnerable zones, like the body or “chicken wing” (where the backhand and forehand meet).
For right-handers, this is the area near the right hip. Hitting here forces awkward, indecisive returns, often resulting in a weak pop-up.
The Case for Resets
Resets are the great equalizer in pickleball. They’re like a defensive spell that gives you the chance to neutralize an opponent’s attack and regain control of the rally.
- Stay in the Fight: If you’re under pressure, a reset slows the pace, keeps the ball low, and forces your opponent to work harder to attack again.
- Limit Errors: Speed-ups can lead to unforced errors if not executed perfectly. A well-placed reset reduces risk and buys you time to reset your positioning.
- Frustrate Opponents: Constantly resetting can wear down aggressive players, making them impatient and more prone to errors.
If your resets are falling short, don’t sweat it—check out this 60-second video for some great tips to get them right:
When to Reset
Knowing when to reset is as crucial as executing it properly. Here are some key moments:
- Defensive Situations: If the ball is below net height or at your feet, resetting is the safer option. Trying to speed up from these positions often results in errors.
- Out of Position: If you or your partner are off-balance or out of sync, a reset gives you time to recover.
- Facing Faster Hands: When playing against opponents with quicker reactions, resetting forces them to slow down and rethink their attacks.
Pro Tip for Resets
The goal of a reset is to place the ball softly into your opponents’ kitchen. Focus on keeping the ball low and unattackable.
This takes away their offensive options and allows you to get back into the rally.
How to Decide: Speed-Up or Reset?
Let’s make this practical. Here’s how to approach these decisions depending on your skill level and the situation:
For Beginners
- Focus on Resets: Master the basics first. Work on blocking fastballs and resetting them into the kitchen. Speed-ups can come later when your accuracy improves.
- Practice Patience: Avoid the temptation to fire off every ball. Learn to recognize high-percentage opportunities.
For Intermediate Players
- Balance is Key: Mix resets and speed-ups. Test your opponents early in the match to see if they struggle with fastballs or prefer slower rallies. Adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Improve Shot Selection: Not every ball is meant to be sped up. Stick to high balls and passive dinks for your attacks.
For Advanced Players
- Dominate with Counters: Hone your hand speed to win firefights. Focus on counterattacking speed-ups with precision rather than defaulting to resets.
- Strategic Speed-Ups: Use speed-ups not just to win points but to set up future rallies. Even failed speed-ups can destabilize your opponents’ game plan.
What Works and What Doesn’t
What Works
- Reset First, Attack Later: Use resets to prolong rallies and wait for attackable opportunities.
- Smart Speed-Ups: Target your opponents’ weak spots with compact, controlled swings.
What Doesn’t
- Careless Speed-Ups: Firing randomly at low balls or into strong hands is a recipe for disaster.
- Over-Reliance on Resets: While resets are great for survival, they won’t win matches outright. You still need offensive weapons.
Find Your Flow
So, who wins the point—the speed-up team or the reset team? The answer: It depends on who plays smarter, not just faster or slower. Both resets and speed-ups are tools, and the best players know when and how to use each one.
Here’s your homework: In your next game, experiment with both strategies. Test your opponents’ hands, mix in some resets, and don’t be afraid to pull the trigger when the opportunity arises. Most importantly, have fun—and remember, the best offense is sometimes a well-timed reset!
What’s your go-to move? Let us know in the comments! 🏓
