1 . Start with Dinking
Begin by dinking with a partner at the non-volley zone ( NVZ ) line . While dinking , practice pivoting slightly back onto your back foot as the ball bounces , loading your leg for power . Continue this motion to get used to the weight transfer without rushing the attack . 2 . Incorporate the Speed-Up Once you feel comfortable with the movement , choose a target within the court and practice speeding up your dinks into an attack . Elongate your followthrough as you drive through the ball toward your target . Start with a smooth , controlled swing , focusing on placement rather than power . 3 . Control the Power One common mistake players make when practicing speed-ups is swinging too hard . Instead of trying to overwhelm your opponent with power , aim for a target well within the court . As you become more comfortable with the technique , gradually increase your paddle speed and add more force behind the shot , while maintaining control . 4 . Recover After the Shot Always assume that your speed-up will be returned . After attacking off the bounce , your weight should naturally transfer from your back foot to your front foot . This forward momentum will help you prepare for the counterattack . If your weight finishes on your back foot , you ’ ll be out of position to defend your opponent ’ s return .
The Importance of Recovery and Anticipation
In pickleball , any offensive shot — including an attack off the bounce — is likely to come back at you . Therefore , recovery and anticipation are just as important as executing the initial shot . After transferring your weight forward into the ball , immediately prepare for a quick response from your opponent . This ensures that you ’ re ready for a block or counterattack rather than being caught off guard .
Tip : After striking the ball , reset your stance by quickly bringing your paddle back into a neutral position and staying low . Expect a return and be prepared to defend it , whether it comes in the form of a counterpunch , a reset dink , or a high ball . One of the most important aspects of attacking is being ready to counter a high ball immediately . If the return comes back high , capitalize on the opportunity to hit the ball down , keeping the pressure on your opponent .
Many players make the mistake of attacking and then waiting to see how their opponent responds . Instead , when you initiate an attack and your opponent ’ s return presents another offensive opportunity , keep attacking . Staying alert and prepared to strike again allows you
Rafa Hewett of the New York Hustlers MLP team gets low while timing when to hit a forehand offensive attack shot off the bounce toward his opponent ’ s shoulder during the MLP Mesa Tournament in Mesa , AZ . Photo by Bruce Yeung ; IG : @ yeungphotography .
to maintain control of the rally and finish the point on your terms .
Conclusion : Mastering the Balance Between Power and Precision
Attacking off the bounce in pickleball is a nuanced skill that requires excellent timing , body positioning , and swing mechanics . While it may be harder to execute than an aerial attack , the ability to attack off the bounce can open up new offensive opportunities and keep your opponents off-balance .
The key is patience . Wait for the ball to rise , position yourself properly , and focus on control before adding power . With time and practice , you ’ ll develop the confidence to attack effectively off the bounce , becoming a more versatile and dangerous player .
Remember to drill regularly and communicate your practice goals with your partners . This will not only help you improve but also foster a supportive environment where you can test new strategies and develop your skills with intention . •
Sarah Ansboury Managing Director , PPR International PPR Clinician Former World Top 5
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024 | MAGAZINE 69