Mastering Pickleball: A Beginner’s Guide to Drills and Techniques by Jon Lee Sarasota
As noted by Jon Lee Sarasota, Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports today, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and a great way to stay active Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your skills, focusing on the basics and practicing key drills can help you become a better player. Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting pickleball and some essential drills to hone your technique
The first step in learning pickleball is to get comfortable with the rules and equipment The game is played on a smaller court than tennis, and the paddles are solid with no strings. The
ball is a perforated plastic one, similar to a waffle ball Familiarize yourself with the scoring system, court layout, and basic strokes the serve, volley, and dink. Once you’re comfortable with these fundamentals, you can focus on specific drills to improve your game. One of the best drills for beginners is practicing your serve
Start by serving the ball from different spots on the baseline to develop accuracy and control. Aim to hit the ball deep into the opponent’s court, making it harder for them to return it Another useful drill is the dink shot practice, where you and a partner exchange soft, controlled shots near the net This helps build precision and patience, essential skills for playing at the kitchen line.
To improve footwork and reflexes, try a movement drill where you alternate between the baseline and the net, practicing quick, controlled steps. This helps you move efficiently around the court and prepare for different shots
By practicing these drills and focusing on key techniques, you’ll build a strong foundation in pickleball. Over time, your skills will improve, and you’ll gain confidence on the court. You’ll master the game in no time with consistency and practice