Pickleball Paddle Positioning Tips: A new instructional video explains how adjusting paddle position based on an opponent’s pickleball court location can help pickleball players defend fast shots and stay prepared during play. The lesson focuses on how positioning the paddle early can reduce reaction time and increase control during high-speed exchanges.
Adjust Paddle Angle Based on Opponent’s Position
The key advice is to watch where your opponent is on the court. When the opponent is at the baseline, players can hold their paddle at about an 11 o’clock angle in a neutral ready stance. This allows easy access to both forehands and backhands. However, as the opponent moves closer, especially into the midcourt, the paddle should shift slightly more left to prepare for quick backhand defenses.
The speaker explains, “My paddle position should be based on where my opponent is.”
Being ready for a fast, hard shot is the priority. The player explains it’s easier to adjust to a slow shot when expecting a fast one, but much harder to react to a fast shot when only expecting a soft return.
Ready for Fast Shots Near the Net
When the opponent is at the kitchen line and likes to hit hard, the paddle should already be positioned for a backhand. The player adds, “If he’s right in front of me and he’s banging, I’m going to be like this already,” as he demonstrates holding the paddle in a high backhand-ready stance.
Even if the opponent chooses to drop the ball softly, the paddle can be quickly adjusted. “I’ve got time to move my paddle,” the player notes.
Using Forehands from the Baseline and Backhands Close Up
The lesson highlights that forehands are easier to use when the opponent is at the baseline. The player often moves slightly to the left to set up for strong forehand returns. But when the opponent moves forward and starts hitting harder, backhands become the go-to shot because of quicker reaction times.
“If he’s closer and he’s banging, I’m going to be backhand ready,” he says.
He shows how when expecting powerful returns, having the paddle already in the backhand position means less movement and faster responses. The player demonstrates quick reflex volleys, especially on the backhand, to build this skill.
Practice Makes Positioning Easier
The player suggests practicing kitchen reflex volleys with a partner, focusing on short, fast exchanges. Most of the returns should be backhands to mimic real-game situations. “Backhand… backhand… forehand… backhand,” he calls out during a drill, noting that he only chooses the forehand when there’s extra time due to a floating ball.
“If I have time, I’m choosing forehand. If I don’t have time, I’m using my best reaction shot,” he explains.
Being Prepared Helps Players Handle Pressure
This training helps players feel more in control when facing strong opponents who play fast. Understanding where to place the paddle helps reduce the surprise of quick volleys and improves success in rallies. Players who master paddle positioning will be ready for both hard drives and soft drops, keeping their game balanced and confident.
News in Brief: Pickleball Paddle Positioning Tips
A new video breaks down how adjusting paddle position based on an opponent’s location can help pickleball players defend fast shots. It teaches players to use backhands when the opponent is close and forehands when there’s time, making volleys easier to handle in real games.