The sport of pickleball has a range of skill levels, typically broken down by pickleball ratings from about 3.0 to 6.0+. The skills and strategies to be successful at each level generally differ. In other words, what works at the 3.0 level may not work at the professional levels. However, there are some pickleball strategies that transcend ratings.
One such pickleball strategy that works at every level is targeting your opponent’s non-dominant foot—especially in the transition zone (as noted by pickleball commentator Adam Stone during a recent live broadcast, because you have more space (compared to when your opponent is at the Kitchen line) and are better able to hit down at your opponent’s feet). Here’s why:
When your opponent is in the transition zone, look for ways to target that opponent’s non-dominant foot. This pickleball strategy will give you the edge no matter your skill level. However, as you rise in pickleball ratings, always expect the pickleball to come back. No matter how strong your strategy, advanced and skilled opponents will be able to counter the difficult shot, get the pickleball back over the net, and stay in the point. Stay strong and continue to apply pressure (i.e., maybe with another shot to your opponent’s non-dominant foot) until you eventually win the point on the pickleball court!
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