John Cincola’s Full Extension Drill in Pickleball: Professional pickleball player John Cincola recently shared a valuable drill on Instagram, showing how players can improve their ability to take the ball out of the air. The drill focuses on controlling the space around the kitchen line, maintaining balance, and executing a proper reach. For players seeking to sharpen their precision and court presence, Cincola’s approach offers a structured and effective method.
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The Importance of Taking the Ball Out of the Air
In pickleball, taking the ball out of the air can significantly increase a player’s control and tempo during a rally. Cincola explains that this skill reduces the opponent’s reaction time, allowing the player to dictate the pace of play.
However, success relies on proper positioning, balance, and control. Cincola’s drill emphasizes these fundamentals, helping players avoid common errors like overreaching or breaking posture.
Establishing Full Extension
Central to John Cincola’s drill is the concept of “full extension.” Players are instructed to stand in a balanced stance and extend their paddle as far as possible without compromising body posture. John Cincola defines full extension as the maximum comfortable reach that still allows players to maintain stability.
“Reaching farther than your full extension risks losing control and balance.” – (john Cincola)
This measured approach ensures that players can control the ball effectively while staying in a strong, athletic position.
Practicing with Intentionality
The drill involves two players dinking the ball back and forth at full extension. Both players aim to take as many shots out of the air as possible, focusing on keeping their paddle steady and allowing the ball to meet it.
If the ball does not naturally reach the paddle, the player pulls back into their stance and plays the shot off the bounce. John Cincola emphasizes starting with the paddle fully extended rather than reaching out mid-motion.
“It’s not about pulling in and then reaching out. Start extended, and if it’s not there, then pull back.” – (john Cincola)
Building Awareness Around the Kitchen Line
The drill also highlights spatial awareness, a critical component of kitchen-line play. Players learn to discern when to take the ball out of the air versus letting it bounce, based on their positioning and the ball’s trajectory.
By practicing this drill, players can refine their ability to handle varying ball placements while maintaining a controlled presence at the net. This awareness is key to sustaining long rallies and applying pressure on opponents.
Practical Benefits for All Skill Levels
John Cincola’s drill is simple and adaptable, making it suitable for players at any skill level. Beginners can use it to build fundamental control, while advanced players can use it to fine-tune their precision and decision-making.
Through deliberate practice, players can develop a better sense of when and how to take the ball out of the air, leading to greater efficiency and consistency during matches.
News in Brief: John Cincola’s Full Extension Drill in Pickleball
Professional pickleball player John Cincola shares a drill focused on improving players’ ability to take the ball out of the air, enhancing control and tempo during rallies. The drill emphasizes balance, positioning, and full paddle extension without compromising posture. John Cincola explains that starting with the paddle extended and focusing on reaching comfortably ensures better control.
The drill also promotes spatial awareness around the kitchen line, helping players decide when to let the ball bounce or take it out of the air. Suitable for all skill levels, John Cincola’s method helps players refine precision, consistency, and decision-making at the net.
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