BEGINNER
by JEFF RAUSCH
W Transition Zone for Improvers
When I started playing pickleball years ago, I was told to run as fast as I could to the non-volley zone, and if I could not make it, I should take a split step, return the next shot and continue moving forward to the non-volley zone line as quickly as possible. I have played competitive tennis for over 50 years and know how to volley well, but I found I was moving so quickly and was so out of sync that I could only hit a ball that was within my reach, and many balls flew by me.
Eventually, a good pickleball instructor asked me why I was running so hard and taking a split step a few feet from the non-volley zone instead of just moving forward under control, with my weight forward and paddle in front of me. That question changed my game and I now make it to the non-volley zone in the same amount of time as before, but I am in control throughout the transition, and it is a much more enjoyable process while also being much easier on my body.
Traveling from the baseline to the non-volley zone should be viewed as a simple destination and not a long and complicated journey. Many beginner and improver players often discount the importance of the transition zone. What actions can you take to simplify your transition through“ no-man’ s-land” to ensure that it sets the stage for the rally to develop in your favor?
When watching beginner or improver players, one of the first things I notice is that, in general, they either run out of control at full speed to the non-volley zone( as I did when I first started playing) or they make it a long journey with multiple stops along the way while wandering all around the transition zone.
Another approach is less common but most effective. These players move through the non-volley zone under control with their paddle in front of them, ready for any ball that comes their way. They understand that the transition zone is not an area to be feared or lost within, but to be moved through purposefully with the intent of reaching the non-volley zone line.
Positioning
As the player moving forward through the transition zone, you should be moving under your own control at a comfortable pace. My analogy is a“ flip-flops on the beach” scenario. Imagine you are walking in the sand toward your destination with purpose and not stopping to pick up sea shells or to enjoy the view.
Accelerate and / or decelerate your pace, keeping your paddle in front of your body while continuing your movement forward to put yourself in the best possible position to contact the returning ball.
MAKE A SMOOTH TRANSITION TO THE NVZ WITH YOUR PADDLE OUT IN FRONT FOR THE BEST SUCCESS!
PHOTO BY BRUCE YEUNG; IG: @ YEUNGPHOTOGRAPHY
20 TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 412.914.8294 OR GO TO PICKLEBALLMAGAZINE. COM