By Chris Wolfe, Director of Pickleball at Atlanta National Pickleball Club
One of the biggest differences between solid players and next level players? They adapt.
Too many people go out there with one game plan and stick to it no matter what is happening. If your opponents are feasting on forehands, stop feeding them. If they are struggling with dinks or movement, make them prove they can handle it. Do not keep hitting shots that make them look good.
Pickleball is not just about hitting good shots. It’s about hitting the right shots at the right times.
Here are some things great players do: recognize patterns, test weaknesses early like backhands or footwork, and mix up tempo and spin to keep opponents off balance.
And maybe most importantly, they do not take it personally. Changing your style mid-match is not weakness. It’s awareness.
You do not have to be flashy to win. You just need to be a little smarter than the person across the net.
BE STILL. BE BALANCED. PLAY BETTER.
One of the most underrated parts of great pickleball? Being still and balanced as your opponent hits the ball. Sounds simple, but it’s huge.
If you are coming through the transition zone, start your split step just before your opponent makes contact. You want to be grounded as they hit, not in the air. That way, you are ready to move in any direction: forward, backward, or side to side with control.
At the non-volley zone, this is even more important. You should not be moving as your opponent hits the ball. Be set. Be balanced. It helps you make better decisions. If they rip a shot, you will be able to judge whether to block it or let it fly. And being still keeps your paddle in a good position, so you don’t pop up an easy ball because your body is doing something weird.
Stillness creates sharpness. Balance gives you options. Try it, and you’ll notice the game starts slowing down.
