INSTRUCTION By PPR ’ s Jeff Rausch
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 find 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 . The third group is less common but most effective . This group moves through the non-volley zone under control with their paddle in front of them , ready for any ball that comes their way . These players 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 forward under your own control at a comfortable pace . My analogy is a visual of 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
Make a smooth transition to the NVZ with your paddle out in front for the best success !
PHOTO BY BRUCE YEUNG ; IG : @ YEUNGPHOTOGRAPHY