Death Trap Pickleball Drill: A high-intensity pickleball drill called “Death Trap” was recently demonstrated on Selkirk TV to teach players how to cover an entire court while improving control and endurance. One player must defend solo against two opponents using finesse, speed, and mental focus to reach 21 points.
A Demanding Court Challenge
In this unique setup, a single player is responsible for the entire court width up to a pre-set orange line. The drill is nicknamed “Death Trap” due to the physical and mental demands placed on the solo player.
Players can only score by hitting targets taped in the corners of the opponent’s side or when the two defenders make an error. Errors include hitting outside the designated lines or into the net.
“Your goal is to get 21 points as a single player. The only way to score a point is to hit the targets in the corner… or if we make an error, that’s also a point to the single player,” one instructor explained.
Precision Under Pressure
Two players focus on denying the solo player any scoring chances by keeping the ball in a confined zone near the non-volley line. The attacker must stay quick and composed.
“This is going to be some work,” said the instructor. “Now John, you and I can hit the ball anywhere within that section of the nonv zone up to the designated line. If we hit the ball outside of that line, that’s out, that’s a point for the single player.”
The single player must not only respond to every shot but must also avoid unforced errors. If the solo player hits the net or misplaces a shot, they lose a point.
“If you make an error as the single player, you must deduct one point off of your score,” said the coach during the drill.
Solo Player Fights to Reach 21
Throughout the match, the solo player constantly battles fatigue while trying to hit the corners with precision shots. “Still no points… good get… that’s one point, that’s two points, three points… little short, still at three points,” the instructor narrated as the player built their score.
“Uhoh… you were at four, now you’re at three. Not easy over there, is it?” they added, as the player lost a point for hitting into the net. Each successful shot in the corner or error by the defenders helped the solo player inch closer to the 21-point goal.
“You’re now at 13… let’s just fast forward… yeah, you’re at 19 points. Continue to work,” the instructor said as the player neared the finish.
A Workout for the Mind and Body
The Death Trap drill is more than just a skills test—it’s also a cardio and strength workout that challenges balance, footwork, and mental grit.
“This is also a cardiovascular workout as well as functional strength training,” said the instructor. “A lot of this game is that mental fortitude… even when you’re tired… continue to control that ball.”
Once a player reaches 21 or can no longer continue, they switch roles, giving each person a turn at the solo spot. “You will get gas. This is also a cardiovascular workout as well as functional strength training,” the instructor concluded. “Try the Death Trap.”
News in Brief: Death Trap Pickleball Drill
The “Death Trap” pickleball drill tests solo players’ control, fitness, and mental strength as they defend the full court. Scoring relies on corner shots or opponents’ errors. The game, featured on Selkirk TV, pushes players to their limits with intense movement and endurance.
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