Master the Art of Dinking in pickleball: For pickleball enthusiasts, dinking is essential for strong net play. While it may appear simple, dinking can be challenging when performed on the move. This drill offers players a structured approach to mastering control, footwork, and precision, particularly in motion. Here’s a look at how this drill works, and why it can help improve both footwork and accuracy.
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Setting Up the Drill
To start, this drill requires two players, each with distinct roles. One player remains stationary at the kitchen line, while the other moves from side to side. The drill begins with a down-the-line dink, which the stationary player returns to the middle of the court. The moving player then shuffles over to return the shot before the stationary player sends a crosscourt shot, prompting the moving player to reposition for a crosscourt dink. This rotation continues, creating a rhythm that hones the moving player’s footwork and accuracy.
Focus on Technique: Lift vs. Push Dinks
One of the key pickleball techniques emphasized in this drill is learning the difference between lift dinks and push dinks. When performing a down-the-line dink, players should employ a lift dink, giving the shot enough clearance to avoid the net while keeping it shallow in the kitchen. This pickleball tactic helps prevent opponents from executing an aggressive return. Conversely, on crosscourt shots where there’s more room over the net, players are encouraged to use a push dink, aiming for a controlled, aggressive shot toward the opponent’s feet.
Paddle Position and Footwork
Footwork is crucial in this drill. For consistent and controlled dinks, players should focus on shuffling their feet rather than lunging. The proper footwork involves starting in a ready position, pushing off the outside foot, and returning to the ready stance after each shot. Paddle positioning is equally important—pickleball players should ensure that their paddle face aligns with their intended target, maintaining control over the ball’s direction.
Why This Drill Works
The moving dinks drill addresses a common challenge: maintaining control while dinking on the move. Many beginners struggle with lifting the ball when moving, unintentionally creating opportunities for their opponents. By reinforcing control and footwork in a structured way, this drill helps players develop better accuracy and consistency, reducing the risk of errors and improving their offensive play from the kitchen line in pickleball.
Building Dinking Mastery
For players aiming to sharpen their dinking game, this drill provides a straightforward yet effective approach. With its emphasis on controlled movement, precision, and paddle direction, the drill encourages players to improve their footwork, allowing them to make strategic shot placements. Incorporating this exercise into regular practice can help players take their dinking skills to the next level, making them more competitive on the court.
News in Brief: Master the Art of Dinking in pickleball
The moving dinks drill is designed to improve pickleball players’ footwork, accuracy, and control while dinking on the move. The drill involves two players: one stationary at the kitchen line and the other moving side to side. The stationary player executes a down-the-line dink, followed by crosscourt shots, requiring the moving player to reposition and return the shot. Key elements of the drill include mastering lift and push dinks in pickleball, refining paddle position, and focusing on footwork, specifically shuffling instead of lunging. This exercise helps players develop precision, consistency, and offensive control at the net, making them more competitive.
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