If you’re finding yourself constantly frustrated by popping up your dinks, you’re definitely not alone. This common dink mistake can really throw off your game. It’s a tricky error that can creep in as you try to refine your skills.
So, let’s chat about why this happens and how you can fix it.
Who Makes This Mistake?
So, who’s guilty of popping up dinks? It’s usually the intermediate players, those in the 3.0 to 4.0 skill range.
As you transition from beginner to intermediate, you might carry over some habits that worked at lower levels but don’t cut it as the competition heats up.
The main issues? A tight grip, big swings, and a lack of control. These bad habits can make it tough to keep your dinks low and precise.
3 Main Reasons Pop-Ups
- Tight Grip: Holding the paddle too tightly is a major reason for popping up dinks. A tight grip means less control and more force, causing the ball to bounce higher than intended.
- Big Swings: Taking a large backswing adds unnecessary power, making it hard to keep the ball low.
- Unstable Paddle Face: Using too much wrist can change the angle of the paddle, leading to inconsistent shots and pop-ups.
2 Key Strategies to Eliminate Dink Pop-Ups
1. Loosen Your Grip
Aim for a grip pressure between 3 and 5 on a scale from 1 to 10. This relaxed hold allows the paddle to absorb the ball’s impact, keeping your dinks low and controlled.
As one player suggested, “Give loosening your grip a shot. One drill that’s worked for me is holding my phone in my non-dominant hand while dinking and matching the grip pressure with both hands.”
2. Small Swings
Keep your swings compact. Your paddle should move only a few inches. This minimizes the risk of adding too much power.
A player noted, “When you dink, keep your paddle within a 2 to 3-foot zone in front of you. Make sure your paddle doesn’t go back farther than your ankles.”
Check out these pro-level coaches in action as they demonstrate these two simple techniques:
Key Techniques to Practice
Let’s talk about some key techniques to help you avoid dink pop-ups:
Stance and Positioning
- Stay low with bent knees for better control and balance on the court.
- Keep your paddle in your peripheral vision and within a small box in front of you to avoid taking it too far back.
Stable Paddle Face
- Use your shoulder to guide the paddle; think of your paddle as an extension of your arm.
Lock your Wrist
- Inconsistent dinks come from too much wrist movement.
- Practice stabilizing your wrist with the opposite hand when dinking.
Extra Tip: Practice patience. Don’t rush your shots. A controlled, deliberate movement is much more effective than a hurried one.
Wrapping It Up: Nail Those Dinks!
Avoiding dink pop-ups is all about practice and tweaking your technique. Aside from maintaining a loose grip, using small swings, and keeping your paddle stable, there are a few extra tricks you can use to up your game.
Firstly, consider the timing of your shots. Taking the ball early, just as it’s rising from the bounce, can give you better control and keep your dinks low. Secondly, always be mindful of your positioning—stay light on your feet and be ready to move quickly. This agility will help you adjust to your opponent’s shots more effectively.
Lastly, mix up your dinks with varied placements to keep your opponents guessing. Aim for different spots within the kitchen to disrupt their rhythm and create opportunities for winning shots.
Happy dinking, pickleball lovers!
