Secret to Faster Pickleball Decision-Making: Anticipation is a crucial skill in pickleball and pro coach Maria Lopez has shared a method to help players improve their reaction time for any shot. In a recent training session, Lopez explained the importance of anticipation and demonstrated drills with pickleball player Susannah Barr.
The Importance of Anticipation
Lopez emphasized that the earlier a player can recognize their opponent’s shot direction, the better they can prepare.
“How early can you start reading your opponent’s shot? You want to know whether you’re going to hit a forehand or a backhand before the ball reaches your side of the court.” – (Maria Lopez)
She noted that advanced players also use anticipation to decide whether to reset, counter, or attack. However, for beginners, the focus should be on simply identifying whether the shot requires a forehand or backhand response.
Basic Anticipation Drill
To build anticipation skills, Lopez introduced a simple drill with Barr. Lopez fed balls to Barr’s forehand or backhand, and Barr had to call out “forehand” or “backhand” as soon as she identified the ball’s direction.
“As we get better at this, we can make it live. Instead of feeding, I hit the ball, and she has to decide and call it out loud while we’re playing.” – (Maria Lopez)
During the drill, Barr repeatedly called out “forehand” and “backhand” in real time. This practice helped her sharpen her reaction speed and prepare her paddle early.
Developing Advanced Anticipation
Lopez noted that top players anticipate their shots even before they verbalize them.
“You can tell Susannah is anticipating the ball extremely early. She’s already taking her paddle back before she even says it out loud.” – (Maria Lopez)
To make the drill more challenging, Lopez suggested that both players call out the shot. She also mentioned that the drill could be adapted for different game scenarios, such as baseline rallies, kitchen line play, and speed-ups.
“You can train whatever shot you want to anticipate. This drill helps improve reaction time for any part of the game.” – (Maria Lopez)
Additional Benefits of the Drill
Lopez highlighted that the exercise not only improves anticipation but also encourages players to breathe properly and communicate more effectively.
“You’re practicing letting air out and getting more energy. It also helps with calling shots and working with your partner.” – (Maria Lopez)
For players looking to enhance their anticipation skills, Lopez’s drill provides a structured approach that can be tailored to any level of play.
News in Brief: Secret to Faster Pickleball Decision-Making
Pro coach Maria Lopez shared a pickleball anticipation drill with Susannah Barr, emphasizing the importance of early shot recognition. The drill trains players to call out “forehand” or “backhand” while reacting quickly. Lopez stressed that anticipation improves decision-making and positioning, making this exercise useful for all skill levels.
ALSO READ: Precision and Strategy: Five Shots Every Advanced Pickleball Player Needs
