Effortless Pickleball Forehand Power: Many pickleball players want a strong forehand that feels easy and natural. John Cincola, a coach from John Cincola Pickleball, shared how to add speed and spin without using too much force. His tips focus on simple moves like rotation and lag, which help build paddle speed fast.
Clearing Up Common Myths
John Cincola explained that many players believe they must stand sideways or extend their paddle straight at the target. He said this isn’t how top players, like Tyson McGuffin and Federico Staksrud, really swing.
“Players are often told they need to get fully turned so their body is facing sideways to the court before swinging. But if that were true, someone should probably let top singles players like Tyson McGuffin and Federico Staksrud know, because they clearly didn’t get the memo—they’re not doing it that way.”
He also shared that trying to swing in a straight line feels stiff and limits power.
The Real Secret: Paddle Speed
According to John Cincola, paddle speed is the main factor in hitting harder and adding spin. Faster swings lead to stronger shots. To gain this speed, players should use rotation and lag instead of forcing the ball.
How Rotation Works
Rotation means swinging the paddle in a smooth arc around the body instead of straight toward the target. John Cincola said that sports like baseball, golf, and tennis all use this motion to create natural power.
What Lag Really Means
Lag happens when the paddle trails behind the hand as the player starts to swing. The paddle falls back for a moment before snapping forward at contact. John Cincola explained that this whipping motion is where the power comes from.
Practicing Lag and Rotation
John Cincola suggested an easy drill to learn these moves:
Start in a ready position.
Make a unit turn by rotating the upper body about 90 degrees without moving the feet.
Pull the elbow forward, letting the paddle fall behind.
Begin rotating toward the target while keeping the paddle relaxed.
Players should then practice by dropping the ball and swinging with this motion. Once it feels natural, they can try it during live rallies.
Zane Navratil’s Powerful Forehand
John Cincola used Zane Navratil as an example of these techniques in action.
“A few of us were watching it in real-time during a game, and you can tell by our reaction—it was jaw-dropping.”
He described how Zane Navratil starts with a loose unit turn, creates lag with the elbow, and then rotates smoothly. Zane Navratil doesn’t step forward but stays balanced while swinging fast.
Staying Relaxed and Consistent
John Cincola said that players don’t need to use muscle to hit a strong forehand.
“If you want a forehand that makes people stop and stare, it’s not about muscling the ball. It’s about moving efficiently.”
He explained that swinging in an arc with lag and rotation makes power feel effortless and more reliable over time.
Why It Matters
Learning these moves can help players at any level hit cleaner, faster forehands. It makes the game more enjoyable and helps them play with confidence. As more people understand these simple ideas, more players will find success without feeling like they have to force their shots.
News in Brief: Effortless Pickleball Forehand Power
John Cincola shared how to boost pickleball forehand power using rotation and lag. He showed why myths about standing sideways or swinging straight are wrong. Zane Navratil’s forehand proves this smooth style works. Players who stay relaxed and move naturally gain easy, strong shots.
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