When you boil it right down, pickleball is really a game of a few critical shots.
Sure, a blistering drive can come in handy. And a feathery topspin lob? Just delightful.
But if you’ve got 20 minutes and a good wall, this is what you should be hitting on repeat: Speed-up, counter, reset. Over and over. That’s it.
Here’s how content creator (and podcast cohost to Alex Crum) Kevin Dong breaks it down:
✅ Speed-up. Focus on a tight, compact swing, heavy topspin, and keeping it as close to the net line as possible. A little speed goes a long way here. Alternate between forehand and backhand.
✅ Counter. Pace out about seven to 10 feet from the wall, which mimics about where you’d be standing for a hands battle. Your #1 priority on the counter is hitting down on the ball.
✅ Reset. Critically, loosen your grip on the paddle to absorb as much of the ball’s pace as possible. Work on getting two hands on the paddle as needed.
Watch Kevin, and notice how quickly all three shots are executed in succession. That’s the speed of modern pickleball. And exactly why this one simple drill is so effective in training an array of critical skills. Do it relentlessly. All the time. And watch your hand speed improve.