Ryan Fu’s Deep 4th Shot Trick: Professional pickleball player Ryan Fu recently shared a video on Instagram, highlighting a critical pickleball technique for players aiming to improve their game: the 4th shot. In his demonstration, Fu stressed the importance of hitting a strong, deep 4th shot in practice, as this can be a game-changer during tournaments. According to Fu, practicing the 4th shot with power and depth prepares pickleball players to keep their opponents at a distance, allowing them more control over the court.
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Practicing the 4th Shot for Match Readiness
In his training session, Fu partnered with fellow player Max, positioned at the baseline, while Fu held his ground at the net. Fu explained that the goal of this drill is simple: to return the ball with as much depth and force as possible. “My only goal is to hit the ball as deep and hard as I can,” Fu explained, emphasizing that practicing with intensity mirrors the demands of a tournament. This approach, he noted, ensures that a player’s 4th shot is effective, putting the opponent on the defensive and creating an advantage in competitive play.
Building Consistency with Power and Depth
Fu’s advice on the 4th shot centers on the balance between power and depth. When players practice hitting the 4th shot with just a light push, it makes it easy for opponents to advance quickly to the net, gaining control. In contrast, a deep and forceful 4th shot keeps opponents pinned near the baseline, making it difficult for them to move forward. Fu’s technique encourages pickleball players to develop consistency with this shot, ensuring they can execute it under match conditions.
Training Like You Play
Fu highlighted the importance of playing with match intensity even in practice. By replicating the pressure and power of a competitive game, pickleball players can build confidence in their ability to execute crucial shots in pickleball like the 4th. “When you’re practicing, it’s really important to play exactly like you would play it in a match,” Fu advised. This approach, he argued, prevents bad habits from forming and prepares players mentally and physically for real-game situations.
Gaining the Advantage Through Preparation
Ryan Fu’s insights into the 4th shot remind players that effective practice isn’t just about repetition—it’s about practicing with purpose. By focusing on depth and power, players can gain control over the court, keeping opponents at bay and improving their own positioning. For those aiming to elevate their game, Fu’s approach offers a straightforward and disciplined method to gain a critical edge in competitive play.
News in Brief: Ryan Fu’s Deep 4th Shot Trick
Professional pickleball player Ryan Fu recently shared insights on Instagram about the importance of mastering the 4th shot. Fu emphasized that hitting a strong, deep 4th shot in pickleball keeps opponents at a distance, giving pickleball players more control on the court. In practice, he works with a partner to focus on depth and power, mirroring the intensity of tournament play to build consistency. Fu explains that practicing with match-level intensity helps players prepare mentally and physically, allowing them to handle real-game pressure effectively. His approach encourages disciplined practice to gain an edge over opponents in competitive play.