Whether you're doing research before your first time playing, or just generally trying to improve, these ten tips are great to keep in mind to play just that much better.
- Start with the basics: Before you jump into advanced techniques, it's important to master the basics of pickleball. This includes learning how to hold the paddle properly, how to hit the ball with different strokes, and how to move around the court.
- Practice your footwork: Good footwork is essential in pickleball, as it allows you to get to the ball quickly and position yourself for the next shot. Practice moving around the court and positioning yourself to hit the ball effectively
- Use the non-dominant hand: Many beginners tend to rely on their dominant hand when playing pickleball, but using your non-dominant hand can actually help improve your overall game. Try using your non-dominant hand to hit the ball and see how it feels.
- Pay attention to the spin: Spin can greatly affect the trajectory of the ball in pickleball, so it's important to pay attention to the spin when hitting the ball. Try to add spin to your shots to make them more challenging for your opponent.
- Place the ball strategically: In pickleball, where you place the ball can be just as important as how hard you hit it. Try to aim for your opponent's weaker side or hit the ball to areas of the court where they have less reach.
- Vary your shots: Mixing up your shots will keep your opponent guessing and make it more difficult for them to anticipate your next move. Try using different strokes and shots to keep them on their toes.
- Stay relaxed: It's easy to get tense when playing pickleball, especially if you're a beginner. However, staying relaxed will help you move more easily and hit the ball more effectively. Take deep breaths and try to stay focused on the game.
- Keep an eye on the ball: In pickleball, it's important to always keep your eyes on the ball so you can anticipate where it's going and position yourself to hit it.
- Communicate with your partner: If you're playing doubles, it's important to communicate with your partner to coordinate your shots and cover different areas of the court. Make sure to call out "mine" when you are the one who should hit the ball, and listen to your partner's calls to avoid collisions. It's also a good idea to use hand signals or other nonverbal cues to communicate with your partner during play.
- Watch and learn from more experienced players: One of the best ways to improve your pickleball game is to watch and learn from more experienced players. This can help you pick up new techniques and strategies, and give you a sense of what to expect when you're on the court. You can also ask more experienced players for tips and advice, or consider taking a pickleball clinic or lesson to learn more about the sport.
Bonus tip: Have fun! Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Remember to relax and enjoy yourself while you're playing, and don't worry too much about making mistakes. The more you have fun, the more you'll want to play and the more you'll improve over time. So don't be afraid to laugh, grab your favorite Court paddle, and go have fun!
