Capital Area Pickleball Association
Serving Dane County Wisconsin

7 Tips from Pro Eric Roddy to go from a 3.0 to a 3.5

15 Jan 2024 5:46 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

This is copied from The Dink Newsletter

You read The Dink Newsletter, so chances are you’re not a 3.0 player. But there are plenty of newbies out there that still need help leveling up.

Plus, it’s always nice to get a refresher on the basics. Here are 7 tips from pro Eric Roddy to help ‘your friend’ level up.

1. Keep Your Eye on the Ball

This will not only help you make clean contact, but it will help train your brain to withstand longer rallies as you advance.

2. Use the Continental or "Handshake" Grip

Beginners will often use a ‘pancake’ grip because it is familiar or easier. This can lead to bad habits and restrict players from hitting certain shots. Using the continental grip is crucial, especially as you add shots to your arsenal.

3. Get Low

Stay low for every shot. It can look or feel ridiculous at times, but staying low before, during and after every shot will lead to the best results. Staying low also allows a player to better identify out balls.

4. Reduce Your Swing

Less is more in pickleball, especially when it comes to the backswing. Try to keep your paddle in front of you, especially when you are at the kitchen. This will help your timing and will help you react more quickly when the game starts to speed up.

5. Loosen your grip

As you start to learn how to dink, try to keep a firm wrist, but softly grip the paddle. Use the paddle as an extension of your arm and keep it straight, instead of letting your wrist turn over.

You can find tips 6 and 7 here along with a bonus tip to help keep you in peak playing condition.

Share these tips with someone you want to help level up. 


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