Improve Your Pickleball Game: Techniques for the 4th shot

In this article, we will focus on an essential technique for pickleball: the deep court shot, whether on the backhand or forehand side. This technique is crucial for dominating your opponents and improving your overall game. Here are detailed tips to perfect your deep court shot.

Understanding the Deep Court Shot The deep court shot is the fourth shot in a typical exchange. After a serve, a return, and a third shot (either a drop or a drive), the fourth shot can be decisive. If you can hit this shot in the air rather than letting it bounce, you gain a strategic advantage.

Steps to Master the Deep Court Shot Positioning After returning the serve, prepare to move towards the net. Adopt an athletic position with slightly bent knees and the body weight slightly forward. Reading the Opponent's Third Shot Pay attention to your opponent's third shot, whether it's a drop or a drive. If possible, anticipate and position yourself to hit the fourth shot in the air. Grip and Stance For a backhand, use a continental grip, similar to that used in throwing a frisbee. For a forehand, use a semi-western or western grip, depending on your preference. Acceleration and Weight Transfer Treat the deep court shot like throwing a frisbee. Acceleration and weight transfer are essential. Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot while swinging the racket forward. Wrist Snap and Top Spin Add a wrist snap to increase top spin on the ball. Good top spin helps keep the ball low and makes it harder for your opponent to return effectively.

Tips to Improve Your Technique Practice with a Frisbee Play frisbee to improve your wrist snap and weight transfer. Treat deep court shots like frisbee throws to feel the necessary acceleration. Power Exercise Start by hitting balls with maximum power, trying to send them far. Focus on maximum acceleration and wrist snap before working on precision. Transition and Net Play Practice quickly advancing to the net after your service return. Work on transitioning from the baseline to the net to improve your transition game.

Conclusion The deep court shot is an essential component of pickleball that can make the difference between a successful attack and effective defense. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can improve your game and dominate your opponents. Always remember to adapt these techniques to your playing style and personal preferences. Good luck and have fun on the court!

Source: Selkirk TV