Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner, there are always ways to improve your game. In this article, we'll present four simple tips that you can immediately apply to your game to help you play better and have more fun on the court.
Tip #1: Allow yourself room to play.
One of the most common mistakes players make in pickleball is focusing too much on the net. When we focus on the net, it's easy to hit the net and lose the point. Instead, try to focus on a target on the court, such as a foot or an open area. This will give you more room to maneuver both over the net and inside the court, making it easier to hit your shots accurately.
Tip #2: Maintain positive self-talk.
It's easy to get frustrated when you make a mistake on the course. However, negative self-talk is counterproductive and makes it harder to play well. Instead, be your own best encourager and focus on the positive. Recompose yourself after each point, regardless of whether it was good or bad, and stay in the moment during the next point. Positive self-talk will help you play with more confidence and focus.
Tip #3: Encourage your partner.
Playing pickleball with a partner can be a lot of fun, but it can also be frustrating if your partner is critical or negative. Be the type of partner who encourages and doesn't drag you down. Encourage your partner and focus on analyzing and strategizing rather than criticizing. Players tend to perform better when they feel supported and encouraged, so make sure you are a positive influence on the court.
Tip #4: Develop a routine before serving.
Serving is a crucial part of the pickleball game, and having a consistent pre-serve routine can help you feel more confident and balanced on the court. Develop a simple routine that you can practice before each serve, such as bouncing the ball on the ground a certain number of times or taking deep breaths. By developing a routine before you serve, you can reduce your nervousness and improve your consistency.
In summary, you can immediately improve your pickleball game by following these four simple tips. Remember to give yourself leeway, use positive self-talk, encourage your partner, and develop a pre-serve routine. With practice and perseverance, you can take your game to the next level and have more fun on the court. Have fun playing the game!
