The ‘Return and Run’ Pickleball Tactic: In pickleball doubles, one common mistake that holds players back is staying stuck at the baseline. While many think this passive approach is safer, it puts players at a severe disadvantage. Opponents who control the kitchen, or the area close to the net, can dictate the pace of the game and force errors. To break free from this trap, players need to adopt a more aggressive strategy—the “Return and Run”—to take control of the game from the moment the point begins.
The Importance of Controlling the Kitchen
The kitchen is arguably the most critical area on the pickleball court. It’s where the majority of points are won, as players positioned at the kitchen line can react more quickly and hit the ball at downward angles, making it harder for their opponents to return. Teams that dominate the kitchen typically win around 80% of the points played, which emphasizes just how crucial it is to control that space. Sticking to the baseline puts players at a disadvantage, constantly playing defense and allowing opponents to dictate the game.
The “Return and Run” Strategy
The “Return and Run” strategy involves hitting a deep return and immediately rushing to the kitchen line. This aggressive move puts players in the ideal position to take control of the point right from the start. By getting to the kitchen line quickly, players can force their opponents into uncomfortable positions, taking advantage of any weak returns. This pickleball tactic not only puts pressure on the opponents but also sets up the player to maintain control throughout the point.
Executing the Strategy Effectively
To execute the “Return and Run” successfully, players must position themselves a few feet behind the baseline, giving them enough time to react to deep serves. Upon receiving the serve, they should focus on hitting a deep return to force the opponent to hit up. As soon as the ball is struck, players need to start moving forward, using quick short steps to maintain balance while keeping their paddle up and ready for a potential return. The key is to stay aggressive—never back pedal—and make sure that the paddle is always in a position to react quickly.
Key Serve Techniques to Support the Strategy
Serving is another crucial aspect that complements the “Return and Run.” A strategic serve sets the tone for the point, and depth is key. Serving deep to the back third of the service box forces the opponent to start further from the kitchen line, giving them less time to prepare for their return. Players should also mix up their serve placement, targeting the opponent’s weaker side, often the backhand, and varying the speed to keep opponents on their toes. The goal of serving isn’t just to get the ball in but to set up an aggressive position for the return and to keep the pressure on the opponent from the start.
The Path to Pickleball Domination
By adopting the “Return and Run” strategy and mastering key pickleball serve techniques, players can effectively take control of the court and dominate their opponents. The kitchen line in pickleball is where the action happens, and by rushing to the net and staying aggressive, players will significantly improve their chances of winning points. With consistent practice and execution of these strategies, any player can elevate their game and become a formidable force in doubles pickleball.
News in Brief: The ‘Return and Run’ Pickleball Tactic
In pickleball doubles, staying stuck at the baseline can put players at a disadvantage. To take control, the “Return and Run” pickleball strategy encourages players to hit a deep return and rush to the kitchen line. This aggressive move forces opponents into uncomfortable positions and helps maintain control. Effective execution requires good positioning, quick footwork, and keeping the paddle ready. Complementing the strategy with a deep, varied serve puts pressure on the opponent and sets up a strong position to dominate the point.
