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INSTRUCTION by ALICE TYM
FOCUS ON CONSISTENCY
It is ironic that despite the razzle-dazzle and memorable shots in racket and paddle sports, it is consistency that produces the winner of the match.
We often remember the three consecutive ATP shots, or the fantastic get from the backhand corner, but it is the high percentage of deep serves or returns that tips the final score. Therefore, if you want to improve your competitive pickleball, you need to focus on your consistency. Pure and simple.
As always, first, know thyself. Your personality determines how you should train. But certainly your goal should be to achieve greater consistency and better percentages on higher-level shots. It does not mean you cannot take chances or hit hard or go for crowd pleasers. It does mean that you are aware of the risk and make a conscious choice to be a disciplined player.
Start by accepting the geometry of the sport. Crosscourt shots are safer because the distance is greater and you have more margin for error.( Years ago, I interviewed Bjorn Borg after he won Wimbledon. I asked him for the secret of his success. He replied,“ I go crosscourt,” and smiled.)
Down-the-middle shots also give more margin for error and force the opponents to choose which player will take the shot. Unlike tennis, many pickleball nets are higher in the center, so be aware that you must clear that center post.
Once you have decided that you want to be a better player, you have to practice and to play a more consistent game. It starts with visualizing yourself keeping the ball in play with efficient shots.
You can’ t be racing all over the court, getting out of position, and expect to win a long match. You have to practice taking the ball early, rather than letting it drop and allowing your opponents to get into position sooner. You want to be in command, and that takes preparation.
How do you discipline yourself to take the ball on the rise or at least at the top of the bounce? Hitting against a wall can help discipline you to prepare early and to watch the ball closely. Focus on consistency by setting a goal of 100 consecutive strokes.( I know tennis players who do 1,000 consecutive strokes or more, so try to extend your goal.)
It helps to say“ Paddle back” the second the ball comes off the wall. Make a conscious effort to pull the paddle back on the backhand. Move your feet quickly to get into position and have your paddle ready. Watching the ball is a mental exercise as well as a physical one.
Concentration is a major part of pickleball. Discipline and concentration produce preparation. Prepare for long rallies. Determination is a major part of the game. Be determined to not let any ball get by you.
Repetition is important in helping you learn what your weaknesses are so that you can eliminate them. Repetition is also imperative to help you build your game around a strength. Work hard on developing a weapon. You need a shot you can count on that puts your opponent on the defensive. You want to be looking for that short ball, that high sitter, that ball that can get you to the NVZ line. Build your game around a weapon, but you have to deliver that aggressive shot consistently.
You need a practice partner who is willing to work on consistency drills. Break it down into patterns of play so that you know what you can hit when you need to deliver.
Chattanooga pickleball players practice keeping their paddles up when they volley. You need to see the ball in frontal vision, not peripheral vision. Design your drills to emphasize good body mechanics and sound physics principles.
PHOTOS BY ALICE TYM
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