Third Shot Drop

What’s Right & Wrong With Your Ready Position

October 13 2024

A consistent ready position is a hallmark of top-level pickleball players. It enables them to react quickly and easily handle fast-paced exchanges.

But many players overlook this crucial habit, leaving them vulnerable. Let’s explore what players get right and where they go wrong when maintaining a strong ready position. 

Here's what Selkirk-sponsored pickleball instructor Jordan Briones has to say.

What Players Get Right

  1. Starting in a Strong Ready Position: Most players start with their paddle up, feet set, and focus on the ball. This initial stance gives them an advantage for the first few shots in a rally.
  2. Good Paddle Placement: The best players consistently return their paddle to the center of their body after each shot, whether they’re dinking or in a fast exchange. This keeps them ready for anything their opponent might do.

What Players Get Wrong

  1. Dropping the Paddle After Shots: A common mistake is hitting a shot and letting the paddle drop to their side. This makes it much harder to respond to a quick counter-attack.
  2. Inconsistent Reset: Many players forget to reset their paddle after hitting forehands or backhands. Without bringing the paddle back to the middle, they’re slower to react, especially in fast net play.

Actionable Steps

  • Reset After Every Shot: Make it a habit to bring your paddle back to the center immediately after each shot.
  • Visualize a Magnet: Think of your paddle being magnetically pulled back to your center to reinforce the habit.

By mastering this simple habit, you’ll be better prepared for every shot and more consistent in your play.

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