Groundstrokes. What, When, Why and How.

Groundstrokes. What, When, Why and How.

Robert Elliott
A groundstroke in pickleball is a shot hit after the ball bounces on your side of the court, typically from the baseline or midcourt. Use a groundstroke when you’re returning a deep serve or a shot that forces you back from the net. Groundstrokes are important for maintaining control of rallies, positioning yourself for the next shot, and applying pressure from the baseline. To execute a groundstroke, focus on foot positioning, swing through the ball with a low-to-high motion, and aim for deep placement to keep your opponent on the defensive.
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Comprehensive Guide to Practicing Resets in Pickleball: Strategy and Drills

Robert Elliott
Master the reset in pickleball by learning when to slow down the pace and regain control of the rally. This guide covers essential reset strategies, including softening aggressive shots and neutralizing pressure. Practice with targeted drills like dink rallies, controlled wall drills, and partner reset exercises to develop a more reliable and effective reset game.
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Drills to Improve Your Third-Shot Drop

Robert Elliott

Drills to Improve Your Third-Shot Drop 1. Solo Drop Practice Objective: Develop consistency and control in hitting third-shot drops. How to do it: Stand at the baseline with a basket of balls. Drop the ball...

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Comprehensive Volley Strategy in Pickleball with Drills

Robert Elliott
hot placement, and net dominance. Focus on punch volleys for offense, block volleys for defense, and drop volleys to change pace. Enhance your skills with partner drills, fast-paced volley exchanges, and accuracy-focused wall drills to improve consistency and control at the net.
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Block Shot. What, When, Why and How

Block Shot. What, When, Why and How

Robert Elliott
A block shot in pickleball is a defensive shot used to slow down your opponent’s aggressive drive or volley. Use a block shot when your opponent hits a fast, hard shot and you need to neutralize their power while staying in the rally. It helps regain control by softly deflecting the ball back over the net with minimal force. To execute a block shot, hold your paddle steady, absorb the impact, and use soft hands to guide the ball back into play, often aiming for your opponent's feet or the kitchen area.
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When to hit a Dink vs a Hard Shot

When to hit a Dink vs a Hard Shot

Robert Elliott
Dink when you want to slow down the game and force your opponent into a soft, controlled exchange, typically used when both teams are at the net. Hit hard when you see an opening or want to put pressure on your opponent, especially when they are out of position or at the baseline. Knowing when to dink versus hit hard is key to balancing strategy and control.
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