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INSTRUCTION by KYLE McMAKIN
Striking with a Smooth and Fluid Swing
By positioning yourself so the ball is within your strike zone in front of you , you ’ re setting yourself up for success . This alignment not only allows you to harness the power of your legs and core , but also ensures proper body alignment for optimal control and accuracy .
Striking the ball in front of you goes beyond mere convenience ; it ’ s a fundamental principle that can significantly impact your shot . By hitting the ball in front of your body , you maintain superior balance and stability throughout the strike , facilitating efficient power transfer from your legs and core to your paddle , ultimately leading to more consistent and powerful shots .
Conversely , if the ball is behind you or off to the side , you ’ ll find yourself reaching or stretching to make contact . This compromises your balance and forces you to rely more on your arm and wrist for power , leading to less controlled and effective shots . By focusing on hitting the ball in front of you , you ’ ll not only improve your balance but also enhance your overall shot-making ability on the court .
Engage Your Core : Connecting Your Upper and Lower Body
Your core is the powerhouse of your body , providing stability , strength and control in every movement you make on the pickleball court . Engaging your core muscles not only helps you maintain balance but also enhances your overall athletic performance .
Think of your core as the connection between your upper and lower body . When your core is engaged , it acts as a stable foundation for your movements , allowing you to generate power and control with efficiency and precision . Whether you ’ re executing a powerful drive or a delicate drop shot , an engaged core is essential for maintaining balance and control throughout the shot .
To engage your core effectively , focus on maintaining good posture and alignment , with your abdominal muscles lightly activated . Visualize drawing your belly button toward your spine and feel the muscles in your abdomen and lower back engage as you move .
By incorporating core-strengthening exercises into your training routine , such as planks , Russian twists , and stability ball exercises , you ’ ll develop a stronger and more stable core , leading to improved balance and performance on the court .
Learning From Martial Arts : The Importance of a Fluid Swing
In martial arts , practitioners often emphasize the importance of a loose and relaxed swing for maximum power and efficiency . Similarly , in pickleball , you don ’ t want to rely solely on brute force to generate power in your shots . Instead , aim for a smooth and fluid swing motion , with your legs and core providing the foundation for power and stability .
When you ’ re tense or rigid during your swing , you ’ re more likely to lose balance and control , resulting in erratic and inconsistent shots . By focusing on staying relaxed and fluid in your swing , you ’ ll be able to transfer energy more efficiently from your body to the paddle , resulting in more controlled and effective shots .
To achieve a fluid swing , focus on maintaining a loose grip on the paddle and allowing your arm to move freely with the natural momentum of your body . Visualize the trajectory of your shot , and let your body follow through smoothly and effortlessly . By incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization into your routine , you ’ ll be able to stay calm and focused , leading to smoother and fluid shots on the court .
Emulating the Pros : Striking with Phenomenal Balance
Top pickleball players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters are renowned for their impeccable balance and control on the court . Each time they strike the ball , they do so with precision and poise , maintaining balance
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