Unlock Your Potential on the Court
Pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a strategic and dynamic sport that requires skill, precision, and smart decision-making, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than at Burlingame. Whether you’re a beginner looking to level up or an experienced player refining your technique, improving your game takes dedication and the right approach. Here are seven essential tips that helped transform my skills from a 3.0 to a 3.5 player, and they can do the same for you.
1. Prioritize Drills Over Games
While playing full matches is undoubtedly more fun, true improvement comes from drilling. The best players dedicate 80-90% of their court time to practice drills, only playing games for the remaining 10-20%. Drilling allows you to focus on repetition and muscle memory, ensuring you master key shots like the third-shot drop much faster than you would in a standard match.
To keep things engaging, turn drills into friendly competitions with your partner by keeping score or setting challenge-based goals. This adds a game-like intensity to your practice while honing essential techniques.
2. Hit with Purpose
Instead of reacting aimlessly, every shot you take should have intention behind it. Before hitting, ask yourself:
- Am I targeting my opponent’s weakness, like their backhand dink?
- Can I strategically move them around the court?
- What’s my highest-percentage shot in this moment?
Training yourself to think ahead will enhance your shot accuracy and decision-making, giving you the upper hand during competitive play.
3. Use Wall Drills for Solo Practice
If you don’t have a practice partner, a simple wall can be your best training tool. Mark a line at about 34-36 inches high and use it as a target for your shots. Start with backhand volleys, focusing on clean contact in the center of your paddle, then switch to forehands.
This drill may seem straightforward, but it’s more challenging than it looks. Maintaining a steady rhythm while keeping the ball in play will push your coordination and reaction time to the next level.
4. Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Many players rely on peripheral vision when hitting, which often results in mishits. Instead, train yourself to track the ball all the way to the point of contact. The ‘sweet spot’ at the center of your paddle offers the best control and power, creating a trampoline effect for a stronger shot.
Losing sight of the ball can lead to errors like hitting too close to the paddle’s edge or missing entirely. Focus, and your precision will dramatically improve.
5. Perfect Your Grip
The right grip makes all the difference. Most players use the ‘continental’ grip, also known as the ‘handshake grip,’ as it offers stability and flexibility for various shots. To achieve this grip, hold your paddle with your non-dominant hand and shake hands with it as if greeting someone. Imagine holding a hammer, and you’ll naturally fall into the proper positioning.
6. Stay Low and Ready
Pickleball is all about quick reflexes and strong defensive positioning. To stay agile, maintain an athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and a slight bend in your knees.
When at the net, lower yourself into a squat to reach those crucial dink shots and prevent the ball from bouncing. If your opponent is preparing for an overhead smash, take a step back, lower your body, and get your paddle into a defensive position to return low shots effectively.
7. Play Smart: High-Percentage Shots Win Games
Pickleball isn’t about flashy, low-percentage shots—it’s about consistency and patience. A solid player only takes shots they can reliably make at least 80% of the time.
Even professional players avoid risky shots unless they’ve mastered them in drills. A lower-rated player can defeat a stronger opponent simply by making fewer mistakes and maintaining a steady, calculated approach.
Take Your Skills to the Next Level at Burlingame Country Club
At Burlingame Country Club, you have the perfect opportunity to put these game-changing pickleball tips into action on our four premier courts. Whether you’re drilling to refine your technique, practicing wall shots for improved control, or honing your grip and stance, these strategies will help you elevate your game. Use these expert-approved techniques to enhance your precision, speed, and decision-mak
Experience Pickleball Excellence at Burlingame Country Club
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, play for fun, or compete in tournaments, Burlingame Country Club offers the perfect setting to enjoy pickleball. With four state-of-the-art courts, you can rally with friends, challenge yourself in competitions, or refine your game with personalized lessons from our experienced Lawn Sports Professional. Click here to learn more and join us and take your pickleball journey to the next level!