How to Improve the Drive in Pickleball with These Professional Techniques

How to Improve the Drive in Pickleball: Pickleball, a sport known for its speed and skill, has evolved into a dynamic game with powerful drives. To improve your drive and master the “crash and drive” style of play, focus on specific pickleball techniques and drills.

Key Techniques for a Better Drive

One of the most important facets of hitting a solid drive is topspin. To achieve this, work on getting under the ball and creating a low-to-high motion with your stroke. Practicing this on your own can involve hitting drives across the court to get comfortable with the motion.

Another key tip is to focus on the power generated not just by your arm, but from your legs and trunk. By planting your feet and stepping into the ball, you can get your body weight behind the shot. Tracking the ball with your offhand and finishing with your elbow pointed in the desired direction will help improve your accuracy and power.

Use the Weight of the Paddle

Think of the paddle as a hammer – you don’t need to force it with your arm. Instead, let the weight of the paddle do the work as it moves through the ball. This loose, clean contact adds more power to your drive.

Endurance Drills for Power and Control

To improve endurance, try a drill with a partner. Have them drop a ball for you every two seconds. The goal is to hit every ball with power while staying loose. Although it’s okay to miss long, you should focus on keeping your shots near the baseline. This drill helps develop quick power deployment and fine-tunes your drive.

What’s Next for Players?

By practicing these drills and focusing on technique, players can improve their drive and overall game. Mastering the crash and drive style will lead to more success on the court, increasing power and control in your shots.