Improving Third Shot Drop in Pickleball: Pickleball coach C. J. Johnson offers expert advice on mastering the third shot drop, a crucial shot in pickleball. Aiming to help players, especially those over 50, Johnson highlights common mistakes and provides simple fixes to improve performance on the court.
Common Mistakes in Third Shot Drop
Johnson identifies three common mistakes players make when attempting the third shot drop. These mistakes often lead to poor shot placement, either landing in the net or being easy targets for opponents. By fixing these issues, players can increase their consistency and improve their overall game.
Mistake 1: Wrong Stroke Mechanics
The first mistake involves improper stroke mechanics. Many players mistakenly treat the third shot like a groundstroke, using a long backswing that leads to incorrect trajectory. “We don’t typically get the right trajectory, the right height on the ball,” Johnson explains. He advises players to keep their paddles in front, using a lifting motion for proper net clearance, instead of turning their bodies too much.
Mistake 2: Excessive Backswing
Another common error is using too large of a backswing. A big backswing can add too much power to the shot, causing it to travel too deep and become an easy target for the opponent. Johnson advises keeping the backswing minimal to control the shot’s distance. “The paddle didn’t come back behind my body,” Johnson demonstrates, showing the proper technique.
Mistake 3: Incorrect Grip Pressure
The third mistake involves using too much grip pressure. Players often grip their paddles too tightly, leading to tension in the forearm and other areas of the body. Johnson compares this to holding a hammer, explaining that a firm grip is necessary, but too much pressure can hinder smooth motion. He suggests a grip pressure between 3 and 4 on a scale of 1 to 10 for better control and relaxation.
Impact of Johnson’s Tips
By addressing these common mistakes, players can improve their third shot drop in pickleball, making it more effective and consistent. As Johnson notes, mastering this shot can help players move from a 3.0 to a 4.0 skill level. His tips also emphasize the importance of proper form, control, and relaxation, which are essential for players of all ages, particularly those over 50.
News in Brief: Improving Third Shot Drop in Pickleball
Pickleball coach C. J. Johnson provides crucial tips for improving the third shot drop. He highlights three common pickleball mistakes—wrong stroke mechanics, excessive backswing, and incorrect grip pressure—and offers simple fixes to help players master the shot. His advice is especially helpful for players over 50 looking to improve their game.
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