Survivor Pickleball Training Challenge: Pickleball mental coach DJ Howard introduced an intense 3-person training game called “Survivor,” designed to improve decision-making, endurance, and full-court movement. In this game, one singles player must score seven points before tapping out, while two opponents work together to wear them down physically and mentally.
How the Survivor Drill Works
DJ Howard explained the game setup in a coaching session on Selkirk TV. One player stands alone on one side of the court while two players team up on the other. The solo player must reach seven points in total to win, using any shot—drop, lob, or drive. The doubles team’s job is to make the singles player “tap out” from exhaustion.
“We are being competitive here. We’re trying to run him ragged,” said DJ Howard. “We can hit winners, we can make him move all over the place, and simply deny him from getting to seven points.”
The doubles team does not track their own score. Only the singles player keeps a tally. The goal is simple: survive long enough to win seven rallies before giving up.
Unwritten Rules and Strategy
Howard noted some important rules for fairness. “We won’t hit drop shots when you’re at the baseline,” he said. “If you happen to come up, we’ll open up the non-volley zone.”
This rule helps avoid unfair advantages while keeping the drill intense and strategic. The singles player has the freedom to use the whole court and all types of shots. But the team of two can force them to move constantly, targeting corners and gaps.
“Do your best to overcome it,” DJ Howard encouraged. “Continue to take a deep breath and reset your mind after each and every point.”
Mental and Physical Challenge
As the session went on, the singles player fought to keep up. DJ Howard regularly checked in: “How are you feeling over there? Heart rate up?”
He emphasized the mental toughness needed to complete the drill. “It’s not easy physically, but it’s also very taxing mentally.”
Eventually, the singles player reached six points. DJ Howard asked if he wanted to continue or quit. The player chose to push through and succeeded by scoring the seventh point. “Singles player just got to seven,” said Howard. “He opted not to tap out. He survived the game. He wins that round.”
Why the Drill Matters
The Survivor drill is designed to test both skill and stamina. Players must stay focused while making quick decisions. It also builds mental toughness by pushing athletes to keep going when tired.
DJ Howard explained, “We call this Survivor for a reason. He’s got to survive as long as he can till he can outwit us, outlast us to get to those seven points.”
This game-style drill rotates roles, giving each participant a turn to play solo. It’s not just a physical workout but a test of patience, planning, and grit.
News in Brief: Survivor Pickleball Training Challenge
DJ Howard introduced “Survivor,” a tough 3-player pickleball drill. One player must reach seven points while two others try to wear them out. The drill improves court movement, stamina, and mental strength. The game ends when the single scores seven or taps out. The drill rotates so everyone trains equally.
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