Pickleball Performance Tips: Pickleball player John Cincola offers some valuable tips for players looking to elevate their game. Here are five common mistakes to avoid, along with strategies to improve your performance on the court.
1. Mastering Soft Shots with Controlled Power
Cincola emphasizes that controlled power in soft shots is achieved by catching the ball, not just hitting it. The key to this technique lies in proper elbow alignment and paddle positioning. By focusing on these elements, players can add precision and control to their soft shots.
2. Limiting Backswing and Elbow Movement
Limiting the backswing and minimizing excessive elbow movement are essential for consistency in your shots. Cincola suggests partner-assisted drills to help achieve this. A simple drill involves having your partner hold your non-dominant arm, forcing you to make controlled swings without relying on excessive movement.
3. Strategic Partner Positioning
Cincola advises that players maintain close spacing with their partners. This positioning allows the paddles to comfortably touch, which helps funnel the ball to the outside. This technique creates more opportunities to outmaneuver opponents, increasing the risk for them and giving your team a strategic advantage.
4. Proper Court Positioning
Maintaining proper court positioning is vital to success in the sport. Cincola stresses the importance of starting with proper spacing, staying aware of your surroundings, and adjusting based on your partner’s movements. Good peripheral vision and constant court awareness allow for quick adjustments, keeping you one step ahead of the competition.
5. Staying Mentally Engaged
Cincola highlights the importance of mental engagement, even when you’re not actively touching the ball. By staying focused on every shot, adjusting your positioning, and thinking ahead, players can remain active and ready for the next opportunity. Keeping the brain engaged is key to performing consistently throughout a match.
News in Brief: Pickleball Performance Tips
John Cincola shares five tips to avoid common pickleball mistakes: mastering soft shots with proper technique, limiting backswing, maintaining strategic positioning with a partner, staying aware of court positioning, and keeping mentally engaged during play.
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