goal is to keep the ball in play while putting pressure on your opponent .
Key Tips : Keep your eyes on the ball , maintain good footwork , and make contact in front of you in your strike zone . Start with attacks at 60 % power so your partner can reset the ball , then gradually increase intensity while maintaining control .
Roll Volley Drill
Objective : Master the roll volley , a shot that adds topspin and puts more pressure on your opponent .
Setup : Practice hitting roll volleys to a partner positioned midcourt or all the way back .
Instructions : Focus on brushing up the back of the ball to create topspin , aiming for specific spots on the court where it ’ s challenging for your partner to respond . Your partner can work on drops and resets , aiming to keep the ball low in the kitchen .
Key Tips : Stay low and use your legs to generate power . The motion should be smooth and controlled , with an emphasis on placement . As you gain more control of this shot , add more power .
STEP 3 : PROGRESSION TO GAME SCENARIOS
As you become more comfortable with these drills , it ’ s time to incorporate them into more realistic , game-like scenarios . This will help you apply what you ’ ve practiced in situations that mimic actual match play .
Attack and Counter Drill Objective : Improve your ability to transition between defense and offense during fast exchanges . Setup : Start with a dinking rally , then introduce attacking shots when appropriate .
Instructions : Focus on reacting quickly to your opponent ’ s shots , resetting the ball when necessary , and counterattacking when the opportunity arises . This drill helps build reflexes and reinforces the consistency of your aggressive shots .
Key Tips : Stay balanced and ready to move in any direction . Prioritize maintaining control over the ball during fast exchanges .
Third Shot Drive and Drop Drill Objective : Develop consistency in executing the third shot drive or drop , crucial for gaining control of the rally .
Setup : One player is at the baseline and the other is at the kitchen . The player at the baseline alternates between driving and dropping the third shot .
Drills are the essential building blocks of a reliable , consistent pickleball game .
Instructions : Practice mixing in third shot drives and drops , challenging your opponent to respond . The focus is on choosing the right shot for the situation and executing it with precision .
Key Tips : Pay attention to your opponent ’ s position and adjust your shot selection accordingly . Maintain a calm , controlled demeanor regardless of the pace of play . Do this in a game of skinny singles to take it to the next level .
STEP 4 : COOL DOWN AND REFLECT
After completing your training session , it ’ s important to cool down and reflect on your progress . A cool-down routine helps your body recover and prevents stiffness , while reflection allows you to internalize what you ’ ve learned .
Cool-Down Routine :
1 . Static Stretching – Focus on stretching the muscles used during your training , holding each stretch for 20- 30 seconds . While stretching , practice deep , controlled breathing to lower your heart rate and relax your body . 2 . Reflection – Take a few moments to think about what went well during your training session and what you can improve next time . This mental review will help reinforce the skills you ’ ve worked on .
Consistency is the cornerstone of a successful pickleball game , and drilling is the most effective way to build it . By following a structured approach that emphasizes consistency , controlled aggression , and game-like scenarios , you can systematically enhance your skills and become a more well-rounded player . Remember , consistency comes first , and once you ’ ve mastered it , you can layer in the aggression that will take your play to the next level . Over time , the effort you put into these drills will translate into significant improvements on the court , making you a more formidable opponent . •
Kyle McMakin is a touring pickleball professional , former Division I tennis player ( UC Davis ) and head pro for LevelUp Pickleball Camps . Kyle is a two-time Triple Crown winner . His DUPR is above 6.0 in both singles and doubles .
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 | MAGAZINE 25