INSTRUCTION By Sonny Tannan
How Can I Learn vs . Train to Improve My Game ?
Things continue to look promising when it comes to pickleball . With so many more players picking up the sport and an increase of places to play around the world , it ’ s safe to say that it is indeed an exciting time to be a part of the pickleball craze !
From those who are just stepping onto the courts for the very first time , to those who have aspirations of competing at some level ( be it a local or regional tournament or a pro-style event ), there are many more opportunities to get involved in this sport .
As a coach , one of the most common topics or themes that I have heard from every level of player — beginner , novice , intermediate , advanced , or even tournamentlevel players — is this : “ How can I really develop my skills and see improvement in my game ?!”
If you really dig into this question , there is an underlying thought and driving force for many : “ How can I learn vs . train in order to really achieve growth in my game ?”
Learning can be defined as the ability to improve a skill that you have not yet mastered by creating the right habits and muscle memory ( i . e ., How do I learn to hit a third shot drop ?).
Training is the repetition of a skill that you have already learned and are continuing to master ( i . e ., I want to work on getting better at hitting the third shot drop in my games .).
You can even add the next level of training to this : understanding when it ’ s best to use that third shot drop and why it can provide a strategic advantage at the most opportune times .
It ’ s important to note that both learning and training are important pieces of development if you are looking to achieve improvement and growth .
Some things to consider based on your skill level :
• Beginner ( 1.0 – 2.5 )— I am working on building a foundation in my technique so that I know that I can
PPR Clinician of the Year , Vicki Foster , shows the Slinky game to this group . Photo credit : Bruce Yeung ; IG : @ yeungphotography