It can be frustrating when you keep hitting the ball into the net. This can lead to lost points and a decrease in confidence. Thankfully, there are ways to avoid hitting the ball into the net while improving your overall game.
The position of your paddle is one of the most important considerations. To avoid hitting the ball on the downward arch, focus on hitting the ball at the top of the bounce or on the way up.
This will help to create a more upward trajectory for the ball, increasing the chances of clearing the net. You can also increase the likelihood of an upward arch by positioning yourself properly for the return.
Understanding Pickleball Basics
To avoid hitting the ball into the net, it is important to understand the basics of the game. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Hit the ball at the top of the bounce or on the way up. Hitting the ball on the downward arch will often result in the ball having a flat return trajectory and an increased likelihood of going into the net.
By hitting the ball at the top of the bounce or on the way up, players can create a more upward trajectory for the ball, increasing the chances of clearing the net. - Position of the paddle. When trying to hit a hard return, players frequently hit the ball with a flat or downward angle on their paddle. This can cause the ball to go into the net.
To avoid this, players should focus on hitting the ball with a slightly upward angle on their paddle. This will help to create a more upward trajectory for the ball, increasing the chances of clearing the net.
- Footwork. Proper footwork is essential for hitting the ball accurately and avoiding hitting it into the net.
Players should position themselves in the right spot on the court, with their feet shoulder-width apart and their weight evenly distributed.
They should also be prepared to move quickly and adjust their position as needed to hit the ball correctly.
By remembering these fundamental principles, players can improve their accuracy and decrease the number of times they hit the ball into the net.
Mastering the Serve
A good serve is a crucial element of any pickleball game; mastering it can make a big difference in a player’s success. Here are some tips to help players avoid hitting the ball into the net when serving.
Proper Grip
Getting a good grip on the paddle is the first step toward a good serve. The player should use a continental grip on the paddle, meaning the thumb should be on the back, and the fingers should be on the front. This grip improves paddle control and can help players hit the ball more accurately.
Correct Stance
The correct stance is the next critical component of a good serve. The player should stand behind the baseline, shoulder-width apart, and weight evenly distributed.
The player should also face the net, with their non-dominant foot slightly ahead of the other. This stance aids players in maintaining balance and generating power when serving.
Effective Swing Technique
When serving, the player should start with the paddle behind them and swing it forward in a smooth and controlled motion.
The player should aim to hit the ball at the top of its bounce or on the way up, which will help it travel upward. The player should also complete their swing by fully extending their arm and finishing in a balanced position.
Improving Groundstrokes
Pickleball relies heavily on groundstrokes. If you are tired of hitting shots into the net, working on your groundstrokes will allow you to hit the ball over the net more accurately and efficiently.
Here are some tips to improve your groundstrokes:
Forehand Groundstroke
The forehand groundstroke is one of the most common shots in pickleball. To improve your forehand groundstroke, you should focus on the following:
- Positioning: Stand in the middle of the court and be ready to move toward the ball. Position yourself so that you can hit the ball on the upward arch.
- Grip: Use a continental grip similar to a handshake grip. This will help you generate more power and control.
- Follow Through: After you hit the ball, follow through with your paddle in the direction you want the ball to go. This will help you hit the ball with more power and accuracy.
Backhand Groundstroke
Another important shot in pickleball is the backhand groundstroke. To improve your backhand groundstroke, concentrate on the following:
- Grip: Use an eastern backhand grip similar to a tennis grip. This will help you generate more power and control.
- Footwork: Move your feet quickly and reach the right position to hit the ball. This will help you hit the ball on the upward arch.
- Follow Through: After you hit the ball, follow through with your paddle in the direction you want the ball to go. This will help you hit the ball with more power and accuracy.
Best Pickleball Trainers To Improve Your Game
1. Furlihong 680PBH Pickleball Starter Kit
The Furlihong 680PBH is an ideal introduction to your pickleball journey. Packed with a launch machine, recycling net, bracket, balls, and a carrying bag, this all-in-one kit caters to beginners and players of all levels.
Spare yourself the hassle of ball retrieval with the efficient recycling net that forms a perfect ball loop system. The extendable chutes offer flexibility, allowing separate use of the machine and net.
Easily assemble the net, saving you time for more play. While the machine’s plastic construction is lightweight, it provides adjustable features for customized training. Elevate your skills affordably with this comprehensive pickleball training solution.
2. Franklin Sports Automatic Pickleball Launcher Machine
If you’re a pickleball enthusiast seeking a training companion, the Franklin Sports Automatic Pickleball Launcher is a mixed bag. While its compact design and ease of assembly make it convenient, the performance has its drawbacks.
The two-speed settings offer variety, but the machine struggles with consistency, often failing to launch the last two balls. Lightweight and portable, it suits casual practice sessions.
However, some users find it lacking in power and precision. The 8-9 second interval between launches might test your patience. In summary, for the price, it’s a decent entry-level option, but serious players may crave more reliability.
3. PIQL Pro Pickleball Target Net – Pickleball Training Aid
The PIQL Pro Pickleball Target Net is a revolutionary training aid designed for pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels. Crafted with precision, its PATENT PENDING design enhances accuracy, control, and power in every shot.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, experience immediate improvement in your pickleball game. The versatile setup allows for various practice configurations, from dinks to serves, ensuring an engaging training experience.
Beyond training, the PIQL Pro doubles as a social game hub, featuring fun activities like PIQL Pong and PIQL Shot. Portable, easy to set up, and complete with a comprehensive training guide, take your pickleball skills to the next level with the PIQL Pro.
Implementing Strategies
Pickleball players must employ specific strategies during the game to avoid hitting the ball into the net. Here are a few tips to help players avoid hitting the ball into the net.
Playing Deep
Playing deep is one of the most effective ways to avoid hitting the ball into the net. Players who play deep have more time to react to the ball and hit it with the proper trajectory. Playing deep also allows players to hit the ball with more power, increasing their chances of clearing the net.
To play deep, players must position themselves further back from the net. You can do this by moving away from the net when you first start the game or taking a few steps back after hitting the ball.
Playing deep allows players to reduce the angle of the ball as it bounces, increasing their chances of hitting the ball over the net.
Aiming Low
Aiming low is another strategy for avoiding hitting the ball into the net. To aim low, players must angle their paddles downward when hitting the ball.
You can achieve this during the swing by adjusting the angle of your wrist and paddle. Players should also focus on hitting the ball at the top of the bounce or on the way up to create a more upward trajectory for the ball.
Enhancing Fitness Level
Players must have the strength and endurance to move quickly and maintain their position on the court to avoid hitting the ball into the net. Here are some fitness tips for pickleball players.
Strength Training
Strength training is crucial for improving overall fitness levels, as it helps build muscle mass, increase bone density, and improve balance and coordination.
For pickleball players, strength training can help improve their ability to hit the ball with more power and control.
Some effective strength training exercises for pickleball players include:
- Squats: This exercise targets the legs, glutes, and core muscles, which are essential for maintaining balance and stability on the court.
- Lunges: Lunges target the legs, glutes, and core muscles, which help players move quickly and change direction on the court.
- Push-ups: Push-ups target the chest, shoulders, and triceps, which are essential for hitting the ball with more power and control.
- Planks: Planks target the core muscles, which help players maintain their balance and stability on the court.
Endurance Training
Endurance training is also important for improving fitness because it helps players maintain their energy and performance throughout the game.
Pickleball players can benefit from endurance training to improve their ability to move quickly and maintain their position on the court.
Some effective endurance training exercises for pickleball players include:
- Running: Running is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular endurance, which is essential for maintaining energy levels throughout the game.
- Cycling: Cycling is another excellent way to improve cardiovascular endurance, as it targets the leg muscles and helps players maintain their energy levels throughout the game.
- Jumping jacks: Jumping jacks are a great way to improve overall endurance, as they target the leg muscles and help players maintain their energy levels throughout the game.
- High knees: High knees are another great way to improve overall endurance, as they target the leg muscles and help players maintain their energy levels throughout the game.
By incorporating strength and endurance training into their workout routine, pickleball players can improve their fitness level and avoid hitting the ball into the net.
Practicing Regularly
- Players can improve their hand-eye coordination, timing, and accuracy by practicing regularly.
- During practice, players can focus on hitting the ball at the top of the bounce or on the way up rather than on the downward arch. This will help to create a more upward trajectory for the ball, increasing its chances of clearing the net.
- Players can also work on their positioning, ensuring they hit the ball after the bounce on the upward arch.
- Players can also practice hitting the ball with different types of shots, including forehand, backhand, and overhead shots. Players can develop a more well-rounded game by practicing different shots and be better equipped to handle different types of shots during a match.
- Regular practice also includes partner or group practice. Players can hone their strategy, communication, and teamwork skills. Partners or groups can practice various shots and drills to improve specific areas.
- Players should also practice their footwork and movement on the court. Players who improve their footwork can better position themselves for shots and be more agile on the court. This can help players avoid hitting the ball into the net by allowing them to shoot from better positions.
Taking Professional Lessons
Taking professional pickleball lessons is one of the best ways to improve your game and avoid hitting the ball into the net.
Professional pickleball players have years of experience and can provide valuable insights on improving their technique and strategy.
The instructor will assess your current skill level and identify areas for improvement during a professional lesson. They will then work with you to develop a personalized training plan that focuses on your strengths and weaknesses.
Professional lessons can be taken either individually or in groups. You can practice with other players in a group lesson and learn from their experiences. This is especially useful for beginners who are just beginning to learn the game.
Professional lessons can help you develop a winning mindset and improve your technique. The instructor can advise on staying focused and confident during a game, which is especially useful in stressful situations.
Professional pickleball lessons are an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their game. With the assistance of a professional instructor, you can develop the skills and strategies required to avoid hitting the ball into the net and advance your game.
READ MORE: