Tyson McGuffin’s Pickleball Tips: Professional pickleball player Tyson McGuffin has shared three important strategies to help new players quickly improve and feel more confident. In a new video lesson, Tyson McGuffin explained what beginners should focus on during rallies, how to choose the right shots, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Move Forward After the Return
Tyson McGuffin said that one of the biggest mistakes beginners make is staying back after hitting a return. He explained that players often hit low, fast returns and then don’t have enough time to move forward to the kitchen line. Instead, he advised hitting high and deep returns. “Height gives me plenty of time,” Tyson McGuffin said while showing the move.
“Right when Ethan is making contact is when I should be up and established.” – (McGuffin)
He warned beginners not to stay back and watch their return. Doing that gives the opponent a chance to hit a fast shot at their feet.
“The last thing you want is to be hitting a return and staying back looking to see how pretty it is or hitting a return and you end up here.” – (McGuffin)
Safe Shots Help Win More Points
Tyson McGuffin also said that beginners should play smart and avoid risky shots. He explained that most points at beginner levels are lost because of mistakes, not great shots.
“90% of the points out here at a lower level are won by unforced errors.” – (McGuffin)
He described three zones that help decide what kind of shot to make:
From a low position (red zone): play safe.
From a balanced or neutral position (yellow zone): make a smart choice.
From a high position (green zone): it’s okay to be aggressive.
Tyson McGuffin showed how simple dinks at the kitchen line can force mistakes from the other team.
“Sometimes taking no risk, playing safe, playing textbook, and putting balls in play is going to do the job.” – (McGuffin)
He also said that a strong defense can help win more points.
“So good defense is good offense.” – (McGuffin)
Focus on the Opponent’s Weak Side
The third tip from Tyson McGuffin was to watch opponents closely and find their weak spots. He said if a player struggles while hitting third shots, keep sending balls their way.
“If you feel like your opponent when they’re hitting third balls is breaking down, you should probably try to isolate and keep it there.” – (McGuffin)
He told players to look at how their opponents move and hit the ball. If someone looks shaky at the kitchen line or while moving forward, keep the pressure on.
“That’s probably a sign that they are not as comfortable at the kitchen line,” Tyson McGuffin said after showing signs of poor form like big takebacks and too much wrist use. He encouraged players to stick with what works.
“Find something that works, keep your foot on the gas and just stay true to that plan.” – (McGuffin)
Why These Tips Matter
These three strategies give beginners a clear path to improve their pickleball skills. Knowing when to move forward, when to play it safe, and how to study opponents can help players win more rallies and feel more confident on the court.
McGuffin’s tips also help new players understand the game better, not just hit the ball back. Making smart choices in different parts of the court can improve performance and make the game more fun. His video lesson gives new players the guidance they need to learn faster and enjoy their pickleball journey.
News in Brief: Tyson McGuffin’s Pickleball Tips
Tyson McGuffin shared three smart tips for beginners: move up fast after the return, play safe to avoid errors, and watch opponents for weak spots. His advice helps new pickleball players build confidence, avoid mistakes, and win more points by playing smarter and with better strategy.
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