Learn to Play

Pickleball Exercises to Play Better for Longer

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As pickleball’s popularity has exploded, so have injuries, mainly caused by repetitive motion, awkward positions, and quick lunges. 

Personally, I have found the sport much easier on my body than tennis. But that doesn’t mean it’s not without it’s aches and pains. In fact, I have another browser tab opened right now wondering if I tore my rotator cuff. But that’s a conversation for another time!

If you play the sport regularly, you will want to have a dedicated cross-training regimen off of the pickleball court that is designed to enhance overall fitness to meet the sport’s physical demands. 

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How to Advance from 3.5 to 4.0 in Pickleball

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Graduating from 3.5 to 4.0 in pickleball is one of the most difficult journeys the recreational player can make. If you’re a seasoned 3.5 pickleball player looking to break into the 4.0 level, improving your skills takes focus and dedication. Based on advice from advanced players and my own experience, here are some pickleball tips for 3.5 players to graduate to a 4.0 level.

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How to Be the Perfect Pickleball Partner – 21 Ways!

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Being a perfect pickleball partner is 50% attitude and 50% preparation. While communication and positivity are key (and free), the best partners also come equipped to save the day. This guide covers the 21 rules of court etiquette and the “Emergency Partner Kit” you should carry to be the hero of your local courts.

Stepping onto the court with a pickleball partner requires more than just individual skills. It calls for a blend of communication, coordination, understanding, and a healthy heaping of fun to make the experience enjoyable and successful. Whether discussing strategies, celebrating each other’s victories, or simply sharing a snack between matches, every small gesture builds a solid, respectful, and enjoyable partnership. It’s about harnessing collective strengths, covering for each other’s weaknesses, and moving harmoniously against opponents. Being the best doubles partner is a mix of being supportive, staying engaged, appreciating the moment, and always being ready to adapt, all while keeping the fun alive. 

I pride myself on being an exemplary pickleball partner, ensuring a strong game and teamwork on and off the court. Here are some things I am committed to bringing to any doubles partnership.

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How to Add the Pickleball Tweener to Your Shot Arsenal

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When my partner raced back to return a lob, I couldn’t believe what I saw next. In an act that seemed like it came straight from Ringling Bros., he turned his back to the net and made a perfect return from between his legs: it was a pickleball tweener.

WOW.

But he wasn’t showing off. Well, maybe a little. What he was doing was putting the “tweener,” one of the best known pickleball trick shots, on full display.

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How to Add Pickleball Power: Mastering Strength, Stamina, and Strategy

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Ever since I picked up my first pickleball paddle, I was obsessed with one thing: pickleball power. I watched in awe as seasoned players whipped the ball across the court with seemingly little effort. Their opponents were often left scrambling, barely able to react. I knew that mastering the art of a powerful hit was crucial if I wanted to elevate my game and have my opponents on their heels. So, I delved deep, practiced relentlessly, and learned from the best. Now, let’s journey together through the insights I’ve gained as we explore the nuances of hitting hard, defending against the big hitters, and aiming for the top ranks in pickleball.

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Understanding Pickleball Faults: A Guide for Beginners

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When I first started playing pickleball last year, one of the most confusing aspects was grasping the concept of “pickleball faults.” If you’re new to the game, you’re likely wondering what they are, how they affect gameplay, and most importantly, how to avoid them. In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about pickleball faults.

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The Best Pickleball Warm-Up Routine

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Being an avid pickleball player, I never hit the court without my tested and vetted pickleball warm-up routine. Before both casual games and intense tournaments, I make sure I’m primed and ready. After some tweaking (get it!?), here’s is the routine I employ to avoid pickleball injuries.

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Pickleball Nutrition: The Ultimate Guide to Eating for Peak Performance

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As a pickleball player who hits the courts multiple times a week, I’ve learned that the secret sauce to elevating my game isn’t just practice—proper nutrition and getting good sleep. Every element plays a critical role in my performance, from the essential carbohydrate kick to the protein punch (and let’s not forget hydration). Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned player, discover how the right foods and drinks can take your pickleball game to the next level.

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How to Fall Gracefully in Pickleball

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Let’s get real for a moment; falls are inevitable, especially in a sport as dynamic as pickleball. I used to brush off the idea of “fall prevention” as an illusion. I believed that instead of trying to prevent falls, we should be focusing on minimizing injury during those falls. But my experiences on the pickleball court taught me that it’s a blend of both; learning to fall gracefully and taking preventive measures to avoid these tumbles in the first place. With pickleball injuries on the rise, you want to do everything you can to stay on the court!

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How to Stay Motivated for Pickleball

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We all have those days. The sun is shining, the pickleball court beckons, yet you just can’t muster the energy or the enthusiasm to pick up your paddle. 

For those who’ve discovered the dynamic world of pickleball, and harbor dreams of tournament victories, staying motivated is paramount. If today is one of those days where the sofa looks more tempting than the court, consider these tips to recharge your spirit and stay on the path to improvement.

Prefer an audio version of this post? Click below.

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