Pickleball Strategies to Boost Reaction Speed: Pickleball players over 50 can hone their reaction speed and safety on the court with simple adjustments to their stance and paddle position. CJ Johnson, a seasoned coach at Better Pickleball, shares three crucial tips to help older players stay competitive.
Finding the Best Paddle Position
Johnson explains that many players hold their paddles incorrectly, slowing their reactions and leaving them vulnerable to fast shots. She demonstrates three paddle positions:
- Paddle Down – This position delays reaction time, as players must lift their paddle before responding. It also reduces defensive power.
- Paddle in Front – Holding the paddle in front of the body speeds up reactions and improves defense against hard shots.
- Backhand Ready Position – Tilting the paddle slightly toward the backhand side enhances reaction time, as most fast shots target that area. It also allows quick block volleys.
Johnson advises players to use either the front or backhand position for better results.
Correct Stance for Faster Movements
Footwork is another key factor in reaction time. Many players stand flat-footed, which slows movement. Johnson recommends positioning weight slightly forward on the balls of the feet, with knees flexed. This stance allows quicker reactions to incoming shots and better balance when absorbing powerful hits.
The Importance of Eye Protection
Johnson highlights the need for protective eyewear, warning that stray balls can cause serious injuries. She shares her personal experience of nearly losing an eye to a golf ball and stresses that pickleball players should wear safety glasses. She recommends Gearbox safety glasses, which are specifically designed for sports protection.
Enhancing Performance and Safety
By adopting the right paddle position, maintaining an active stance, and wearing protective eyewear, older pickleball players can improve their reaction time and safety on the court.
Johnson emphasizes that these adjustments can help players stay competitive while reducing injury risks. More expert tips can be found at Better Pickleball.com.
News in Brief: Pickleball Strategies to Boost Reaction Speed
CJ Johnson of Better Pickleball shares three key tips to help players over 50 improve reaction speed and safety. She advises holding the paddle in a front or backhand-ready position for quicker responses, using an active stance to enhance movement, and wearing protective eyewear to prevent injuries.
These simple adjustments help older players stay competitive while reducing risks on the court. More tips are available at BetterPickleball.com.
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