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Pickleball could easily be touted as the hottest new sporting trend being embraced by seniors worldwide. This simple, low impact and fun game that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis is the perfect hobby for seniors seeking a great way to stay active and socialize. However, like any sport, there’s always the strategic side consistently at play. Below are some of the easy strategies that seniors can adopt to start their Pickleball journey with confidence.
1. Understand the Basic Rules and Equipment
Before you step onto the court, it’s crucial to understand the basic rules of Pickleball. The game is played either between two or four players using paddles to hit a perforated, plastic ball, much like a wiffle ball, over a net. The court is similar to a badminton court, and the rules are a unique blend of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. Being familiar with these rules is an essential step to adopting and developing strategies in the game.
2. Focus on Hand-Eye Coordination and Balance
Before plunging deep into strategies, it’s vital to understanding that Pickleball, like any other racket sport, requires a stable hand-eye coordination and balance. Since Pickleball involves a smaller court than tennis, you do not need intense running, but sudden changes in direction that demand good balance. Regular practice can significantly improve your hand-eye coordination and balance, providing a crucial foundation for your Pickleball strategies.
3. Maintain a Position Close to the Net
Pickleball court strategy often revolves around the net’s position. The team that controls the net usually dominates the game. By maintaining a position close to the net, also known as “playing at the kitchen line,” you have the advantage of lesser reaction time, narrower angles to defend, and an easier opportunity to hit winning shots. However, be cautious about the non-volley zone or the “kitchen”- an area within 7 feet on both sides of the net where you are not allowed to volley.
4. Learn the Importance of Serve and Return
A good serve and return can put you in an advantageous position right from the start. Aim to serve deep, i.e., to the baseline of the opposite court. A deep serve will force your opponent to hit upwards and give you a chance to move forward and control the net. Similarly, a well-placed return can prevent your opponent from charging the net, letting you take the upper hand in the ensuing rally.
5. Master the Third Shot Drop
The third shot drop is a unique and crucial strategy in Pickleball, often being the game-changer. It involves creating a soft shot just after the return, making the ball drop into the non-volley zone of the opponent’s court, thus forcing the opponents to hit it upwards. This allows you to take control of the net and restrict your opponents’ shots.
6. Know When to Lob
Contrary to common beginner’s belief, lobs are not a defensive strategy but indeed an offensive strategy. A good lob requires precision, practice, and the right time. A well-executed lob can take the opponents out of position and provide a chance to turn around the rally. However, avoid predictability and use lobs sparingly.
7. Aggressive Yet Controlled
Aggressive play can help dominate the game, but controlled aggression is the key. Avoid hitting too hard that you miss the lines, but strive to keep the pressure on your opponents. Patient and controlled aggression often pays off in the long run.
This guide offers beginners an easy starting point, but the real game is much more profound and requires continuous learning, practice, and experience. But, as we’ve already mentioned, the best way to improve and enjoy the game is to keep playing. Now step onto the court and start playing Pickleball with confidence, one shot at a time.
