Pickleball Attacking Strategies for Advanced Players: Pickleball players aiming to rise above the 4.0 level must master three skills to succeed at fast rallies near the net: choosing the right spot to attack, following up every shot, and maintaining strong body positioning. These “speedups” are fast exchanges that often decide who controls a point, and learning to win them is critical for long-term success.
Spot Selection
The first key is spot selection, which means choosing a clear target for every shot instead of swinging without purpose. Many beginners, including recreational players, often just “whack” the ball when they see an opportunity. While this may work at lower levels, it fails against stronger opponents who can cover the court.
The lesson stressed the importance of making a decision before striking the ball. As explained, “Okay, I’m going right hip, right shoulder, right at their chest, whatever.” This mental preparation ensures the player knows what comes next and where to position themselves.
Two methods were shared to help players practice spot selection. The first is repeating the target in your head, such as saying “right hip” before swinging. The second is applying rules during practice, like always sending the first speedup of a game to a certain spot. Both strategies train discipline, which later supports better positioning and combinations.
Following Up Shots
The second key is following up the shot. Many players at the 3.5 or even 4.0 level hit the ball but remain still afterward. This limits their ability to react and makes them rely only on the first strike, which often results in losing the rally.
Instead, players are encouraged to keep their paddle in front and ready. The instruction was clear: “Imagine there’s a string tied between the ball and your paddle. So if I hit it, my paddle is pulled that direction, right? literally pulled towards where the ball is going.”
By doing this, the player is always prepared for the return, whether the ball comes back quickly or with spin. The same principle applies to shots down the line, in front, or crosscourt. This technique improves consistency and increases the chances of winning longer firefights.
Body Positioning
The third and most advanced key is body positioning. Even if a player chooses a good spot and follows up correctly, poor positioning can cost them the rally. One major mistake is hitting the ball when it drifts behind the body. In this case, the shot becomes weaker and recovery almost impossible.
Players are advised to only speed up when the ball is in front of them. Using wrist flicks or stretching behind reduces control and wastes time to reset for the next shot. The stance also matters. When hitting out of the air, an open stance helps reach more areas of the court. When hitting off the bounce, a semi-closed stance is stronger because it prevents the paddle from falling backward.
After every shot, squaring up the body toward the ball’s direction keeps the player ready for counters. This habit ensures balance, better defense, and smoother transitions during fast play.
Why It Matters
These three elements—spot selection, following up, and body positioning—are linked. Together, they help players win more firefights and gain confidence in faster games. By developing these skills, athletes can progress beyond beginner and intermediate levels and prepare for advanced competition, where speedups are a major part of every match.
News in Brief: Pickleball Attacking Strategies for Advanced Players
Pickleball players must learn three keys to succeed at higher levels: spot selection, following up shots, and body positioning. Drills showed how these connect during speedups. Focusing on these pickleball skills helps players win more rallies, counter faster, and prepare for advanced play beyond the 4.0 level.
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