The Secret Pickleball Skill You Should Master: Momentum
Last Edited
Sep 05 2024
Category
Instruction
Everyone who has played enough knows how important momentum can be in a pickleball match.
These matches are quick, with a much faster pace in between points compared to tennis.
When things are going well, it’s a beautiful feeling. When you miss 3 returns in a row and are down 6-0 before your coffee has even kicked in, not so much.
While momentum switches are basically inevitable in this sport, I’ve learned a few ways to combat that helpless feeling when things are going south:
Use Your Timeouts
If you’re playing a tournament, don’t be afraid to use your timeouts early. I used to be way too stubborn, thinking the tide was always due to shift towards me.
It’s pretty uncommon to be in a situation late in a game (where it’s probably close, and likely back and forth) where you really wish you had a timeout.
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But if you're not in a tournament, just in rec play...
Take Your Time in Between Points
You shouldn't intentionally annoy your opponent by taking your time between points. But there’s nothing wrong with going back to your towel for an extra couple deep breaths.
When it feels like it’s all happening so fast, it’s because it is.
Slow it down a little. Bounce the ball a couple times right before you serve, taking care to hit the same spot twice. Train your brain to focus, give your body an extra moment's rest, and then begin the point.
Focus on the First Few Shots of the Point
Nothing is a momentum killer like missing a serve...and then a 3rd...and then being the cause of a sideout.
I don’t really like changing my game based on the score, so I’m not recommending any drastic strategy changes.
Related: Pickleball Spin Strategy: Tips to Elevate Your Game
But playing a couple longer points might allow you to get in a groove and get the confidence up, and you’re at least making your opponents earn it.
Submit to the Chaotic Nature of the Game
Every single time you play, you will hit shots you’ve never hit before, so you can’t expect to make every ball.
Pro’s miss dinks and drops - it happens. It doesn’t have to be meaningful when you miss. Just go with the flow and focus playing one point at a time.
Max Freeman is a coach for James Ignatowich Coaching & a regular contributor to the James Ignatowich newsletter. Follow Max here.
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