Senior Pickleball Tips: Senior pickleball players aged 50 and older are being encouraged to make smart adjustments to their game. To play well, they must avoid five common errors: staying back too long, expecting soft shots, holding the paddle low, swinging at balls going out, and ignoring the no-volley zone (NVZ). Learning these basics can help seniors stay sharp and play safer, smarter pickleball.
Hit Deep to Move Up
Many older players make the mistake of staying too far from the NVZ. But to control the game, they must reach the NVZ quickly. The best way to move up is to hit a deep return after the serve. A high and deep return gives players time to get into position at the net.
Always Be Ready for a Fast Shot
One of the biggest surprises in pickleball is a sudden fast shot, also called a “bang.” Players shouldn’t expect a soft dink. Instead, they should get ready for an attack or speed-up. If the shot is soft, they can still handle it easily.
“Always expect a bang or hard shot! Do not expect a dink. Expect an attack or speed up, but you will already be prepared for a soft shot.”
Paddle Position Can Protect You
The best way to hold the paddle is up and in front of the body. This makes it easier to defend. Most experts suggest favoring the backhand when getting ready for a shot. If a player needs to protect themselves, the paddle should stay slightly to the backhand side.
“Best paddle position? Keep your paddle further up in front of you, favoring your backhand for defense. If you are protecting yourself, you can position your paddle more to the backhand side.”
Don’t Swing at Balls Going Out
Because the pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court, more shots go out. Players should learn to let high balls go, especially near the NVZ. If the ball is chest-high or higher, it is often going out. But be careful — balls with topspin can still land in.
“Avoid hitting ‘out’ balls. Because the court is short compared to tennis, there is more chance for the ball to travel out. When you are at the NVZ, if the ball is at your ribs or higher, just let that ball go. Also, if your opponent has topspin, it may land in, so change your defense.”
Use the NVZ to Play Smart
Good pickleball is not just about hitting hard. It’s about thinking. Seniors should use the NVZ to reset the game and slow things down. It helps players stay in control and play with patience.
“Framework: Think about the court without the NVZ. Not the same! Play higher I.Q. Pickleball and use the NVZ to reset yourself and slow down the game. Be patient, and play chess, not checkers! Use your dinks and resets to control the game.”
Why It Matters
Pickleball is growing fast, and many players over 50 are joining in. To stay competitive and avoid injuries, senior players must focus on strategy and awareness. By avoiding these five mistakes, they can enjoy longer rallies and safer games. Smart play at the NVZ, good paddle habits, and staying alert can make a big difference.
News in Brief: Senior Pickleball Tips
Senior pickleball players should avoid five big mistakes: hanging back, expecting dinks, poor paddle position, swinging at out balls, and ignoring the NVZ. Smart strategies like deep returns and strong defense can help players aged 50+ stay safe and succeed on the court.
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