Mini-Pickleball Kitchen Line Drill: In a recent training session, a pickleball coach introduced a drill at the kitchen line that limits movement to improve shot control and readiness. The drill forces players to stay on their toes and take more shots out of the air, helping them develop better habits and court awareness.
Adding Rules to Push Skills
The coach explained that while mini-pickleball might seem simple, it becomes complex when done right. Before practicing mini-pickleball, the coach suggests adding rules to every drill to build stronger skills.
“One that I love is putting us back in the kitchen line and saying we’re going to play out the point but we’re only allowed to take one step each time, which means one foot is always anchored.” – (coach)
This rule encourages players to avoid unnecessary movement and reach for the ball in the air.
“What this forces us to do is again take more balls out of the air.” – (coach)
Making It Competitive
Many players may not see the value in avoiding steps. But the coach believes competition helps change that.
“Some people that think they’re great might even say I don’t need to do that I can win the point by letting it drop.” – (coach)
However, when winning depends on following the rule, players start to adjust.
“If you can put a stipulation on something and say you can only take one step or you can’t take any steps… the only way to win is to… reach in and take the ball out of the air.” – (coach)
Strategy and Shot Placement
The drill also focuses on how players use their shots.
“So again my targets are going to be the outside quarters because I’m trying to make him take two steps.” – (coach)
By hitting longer and deeper shots, then mixing in shorter ones, players can move opponents around without moving themselves.
“Notice this whole point I haven’t taken one step.” – (coach)
Even though the rule allows one step, the goal is to avoid taking any.
“If you don’t have to take a step then you’re doing the drill perfect.” – (coach)
Better Footwork Leads to Better Defense
Limiting movement also helps prepare for fast shots.
“Now if somebody’s going to attack me and I’m flat footed I’m going to go back but if I’m on my toes already I’m naturally going to attack the ball and be in front of me.” – (coach)
The coach showed how keeping posture and paddle ready made it harder for opponents to attack.
“He’s not able to attack me because I’m putting that ball low enough but I’m also able to keep it deep enough at many different times.” – (coach)
Building Accuracy Through Fewer Steps
The coach noted that in some drills, taking extra steps can help with specific skills like defending. But to improve control and shot purpose, less movement is better.
“To truly improve it’s about taking less steps to make your shots more accurate and more intentional.” – (coach)
News in Brief: Mini-Pickleball Kitchen Line Drill
A new mini-pickleball drill limits players to one step at the kitchen line to improve control and fast reactions. The drill focuses on footwork, shot placement, and staying alert. By staying grounded, players learn to hit better shots and stay ready for quick plays during matches.
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