Pickleball’s New Winning Move: A new strategy in pickleball focuses on targeting an opponent’s feet to disrupt their game and force errors. This approach is about controlling the game’s pace and challenging opponents’ comfort zones, rather than making flashy shots. It is gaining attention for its effectiveness, especially in competitive play.
Why Targeting the Feet Works
Targeting an opponent’s feet forces them into uncomfortable positions. When a shot lands just in front of their toes or behind their heels, it makes it difficult for them to decide whether to volley or let the ball bounce.
This results in mistakes, such as mis-hits or poorly timed shots. The strategy is particularly useful when the opponent is transitioning to the kitchen line, leaning at the net, or recovering from a tough shot.
When to Use This Strategy
There are several key situations when targeting the feet is most effective:
Transitioning to the pickleball kitchen line: As the opponent moves forward, their feet are vulnerable.
Leaning in at the net: A shot to their feet throws off their balance.
Recovering from a tough shot: After a difficult shot, they’re more likely to mishit a ball aimed at their feet.
Crowding the centerline in doubles: A shot to the feet exploits poor positioning.
Types of Shots to Target the Feet
Different shots can be used to target the feet effectively:
Third-shot drops: Visualize the opponent’s feet at the kitchen line and drop the ball just ahead of them. This challenges their timing without being too floaty.
Drives: Use compact strokes with topspin to jam their timing and force a poor return.
Dinks: Aim for the feet, especially when they expect a soft dink. This unexpected move creates pressure.
Reset shots: Reset shots can also be used to target the feet, disturbing the net player’s position.
How to Execute the Strategy
Executing this strategy requires proper body mechanics. A low posture with bent knees and the chest over the toes helps keep shots from floating. Paddle contact should be clean and in front of the body to maintain control. Short, controlled steps help with adjustments, particularly for dinks and resets.
A Strategic, Not Flashy, Approach
Targeting the feet is a strategy that focuses on disrupting the opponent’s rhythm rather than showcasing flashy shots. By forcing uncomfortable situations, players can create errors that lead to points. While it may not always result in dramatic plays, it’s highly effective in controlling the game.
Training Drills for Mastery
Several drills can help players improve at this strategy:
Cone targeting: Place cones at the NVZ line and practice hitting to those spots.
Partner transitions: Practice with a partner to improve foot-targeting accuracy.
Dink jam drills: Work on disguising attacks to target the feet unexpectedly.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s New Winning Move
Pickleball players are learning to target their opponent’s feet as a way to disrupt their game. This strategic approach forces opponents into awkward positions, leading to errors and better control of the match. It’s gaining popularity for its ability to improve overall play.
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