I’ve been holding my paddle near my shoulders because I find that quick flicks to my shoulders often cause me to pop up the ball. It’s interesting that you suggested a slightly lower ready position though. I see most pros using that position to so I might as well give it a try.
I was introduced to Pickle Ball just a few months ago. Finding the game so much FUN! However I really didn't improve until I put your expertise into practice. Thanks!
Great video Tony. Too often I hear players talk about the paddle position and that's where it stops. You did a great job covering the more important considerations.
I use your recommended paddle position and ready position with a slightly deeper squad with a narrow stance. This works best as for me as I am an active player and can move very quickly side to side, and, allows for better resets and soft game.
Thank you- this was very helpful! One problem I have is getting (quickly) into a ready position at the baseline after I’ve served. I miss the return ball sometimes when I’m trying to regain my balance after serving. Maybe I should reduce the amount of follow-thru I have in my serve?? I don’t know.
I’m rt handed and use the 11 o'clock position. I find I can control my return quicker in a backhand position, but I keep a continental grip in order to quickly hit a forehand.
I find that when I am at the NVZ the dangerous shots are at my shoulder and face. If opponent is at NVZ too it probably is not going out. Or I won't have time to move out of the way. So I keep the paddle shoulder high. I can still get slower balls from there.
Hi Dud. Thanks for the kind words. Ready position is one of those areas where the amount of work to change what comes natural isn’t worth the trouble. Think of learning to cross your arms the other way. It’s just weird. As long as you are generally “ready” you are good to go.
I usually hold my paddle at 11 o’clock , in between chest and belly button. However, I have been working at lowering a little. So funny, the lawn work. I assist in a training clinic and it never fails, lawn mower is always there.
I use 11oclock mostly and between belly button and chest when at NVZ. When I'm returning serve or coming into NVZ after serve, I keep a little lower. (At least those are the positions I think I have them)
Liked, but I wish you'd speak a tad slower like CJ does. I hold my paddle at just above waist level and angle slightly towards my backhand side. I have a tennis serve and volley background so that feels natural to me.
I have an issue with where to put my non-paddle hand (left hand/I'm a righty) while in the ready position. I usually have my left hand up with fingers lightly touching the paddle face (that originates from my old days of playing tennis) with paddle at 11 o' clock . But I see many others with that left hand/arm away, elbow bent, sometimes extended out like the "for balance" position, etc. Suggestions? Tks!
I video my play and notice I tend to run up with paddle at my right hip, like in my “holster”. I also notice if ball is going to my partner, I drop it down to my side. Maybe a video on how to keep paddle “engaged and ready” throughout the point. I think I am when I am playing, but obviously not. 🙄
I'm 59 and 6'4" - feel like if my feet are shoulder width I get killed by low shots I can't get to fast enough. When I extend my stance to get lower to the ground I then lose mobility side to side. Thoughts?
Usually want to flow left to right with the rally. Say the ball goes way to your left on the other side. If you stay in the middle a gap might open in the middle of your side. Middle is a decent reference point to start but the first flow with the rally. Hope this helps
Think of paddle height in terms of area of defensive coverage. Find the highest point that you want to hit hard balls (usually lower than you think :). Then find the lowest spot (a bit under the net is usually the low) and put your paddle in the middle of it. That should be a good spot. But, again, anywhere other than at your side is going to generally be alright.
What ready position are you using in your pickleball game?
I’ve been holding my paddle near my shoulders because I find that quick flicks to my shoulders often cause me to pop up the ball. It’s interesting that you suggested a slightly lower ready position though. I see most pros using that position to so I might as well give it a try.
I use waist high 11 o clock for all the reasons you say in the video and also to give me an easier path low to high for top spin on quick exchanges.
@@sheaunderwood let us know how it goes. Flick to shoulder should be slow enough if you are hitting it. If it is hard, let it fly :).
@@Thejoeb great stuff. Thanks for sharing.
I was introduced to Pickle Ball just a few months ago. Finding the game so much FUN! However I really didn't improve until I put your expertise into practice. Thanks!
Thank you for letting me know and welcome to pickleball
Great video Tony. Too often I hear players talk about the paddle position and that's where it stops. You did a great job covering the more important considerations.
Thank you CJ. It is what we do :).
Excellent beginners video. Thank you very much!
Thank you James
I use your recommended paddle position and ready position with a slightly deeper squad with a narrow stance. This works best as for me as I am an active player and can move very quickly side to side, and, allows for better resets and soft game.
Thanks for sharing it Robert. Always good for players to hear what works and what does not.
Dude!! This was such a useful video. your production quality is great. Good work 👊
Thank you young man. Appreciate the feedback on the video. Love the collaborative spirit. Let’s keep going.
Thank you- this was very helpful! One problem I have is getting (quickly) into a ready position at the baseline after I’ve served. I miss the return ball sometimes when I’m trying to regain my balance after serving. Maybe I should reduce the amount of follow-thru I have in my serve?? I don’t know.
Try a higher arc and a more even swing, not trying to power through the ball. Just a long toss.
I’m rt handed and use the 11 o'clock position. I find I can control my return quicker in a backhand position, but I keep a continental grip in order to quickly hit a forehand.
Great stuff Ann. Sounds like a solid ready position. Thanks for sharing.
Like the info on height. I think if opponents are back having it at max height may help judging out balls
Ty Bill. Let me know how it works :)
I find that when I am at the NVZ the dangerous shots are at my shoulder and face. If opponent is at NVZ too it probably is not going out. Or I won't have time to move out of the way. So I keep the paddle shoulder high. I can still get slower balls from there.
Thanks Thomas. Ready position is one those areas that players should customize to what meets their skills and style. Appreciate your comment.
Love your videos and teachings. However on ready position what is your recommended elbow position; tuck or elbow out? Thanks.
Hi Dud. Thanks for the kind words. Ready position is one of those areas where the amount of work to change what comes natural isn’t worth the trouble. Think of learning to cross your arms the other way. It’s just weird. As long as you are generally “ready” you are good to go.
I usually hold my paddle at 11 o’clock , in between chest and belly button. However, I have been working at lowering a little. So funny, the lawn work. I assist in a training clinic and it never fails, lawn mower is always there.
Lawn mower. Love it. Thanks for sharing.
I use 11oclock mostly and between belly button and chest when at NVZ. When I'm returning serve or coming into NVZ after serve, I keep a little lower. (At least those are the positions I think I have them)
Hello Jannie. Sounds like you have the paddle engaged and ready to go. Good stuff.
Liked, but I wish you'd speak a tad slower like CJ does. I hold my paddle at just above waist level and angle slightly towards my backhand side. I have a tennis serve and volley background so that feels natural to me.
Speed of delivery is always a challenge for me but I’m gonna double down on the effort. Appreciate the feedback and you sharing paddle position.
I have an issue with where to put my non-paddle hand (left hand/I'm a righty) while in the ready position. I usually have my left hand up with fingers lightly touching the paddle face (that originates from my old days of playing tennis) with paddle at 11 o' clock . But I see many others with that left hand/arm away, elbow bent, sometimes extended out like the "for balance" position, etc. Suggestions? Tks!
Hi Gary. It’s perfectly fine to place the hand as you describe it. I wouldn’t change it.
I video my play and notice I tend to run up with paddle at my right hip, like in my “holster”. I also notice if ball is going to my partner, I drop it down to my side. Maybe a video on how to keep paddle “engaged and ready” throughout the point. I think I am when I am playing, but obviously not. 🙄
This is a great idea. Thanks for sharing it. We generally only see videos of the ready position in a static setting.
Always follow the ball with your paddle. If you’re watching over your paddle you are ready!
Lefty use 1:00 ready position
K
I'm 59 and 6'4" - feel like if my feet are shoulder width I get killed by low shots I can't get to fast enough. When I extend my stance to get lower to the ground I then lose mobility side to side. Thoughts?
I’m thinking shoulder width and a squat when dinking. Also try to cut more balls off with volley dinks. Use that 6’4” to your advantage :)
Should player stay at the middle in front of the NVZ line?
Usually want to flow left to right with the rally. Say the ball goes way to your left on the other side. If you stay in the middle a gap might open in the middle of your side. Middle is a decent reference point to start but the first flow with the rally. Hope this helps
Any thoughts on paddle height in relationship to player height? I’m 5’4” but often play taller opponents greater than 6’
Think of paddle height in terms of area of defensive coverage. Find the highest point that you want to hit hard balls (usually lower than you think :). Then find the lowest spot (a bit under the net is usually the low) and put your paddle in the middle of it. That should be a good spot. But, again, anywhere other than at your side is going to generally be alright.
@@BestPickleballCoach thanks!
Love your videos, but you talk way to fast...
It’s true. Glad you can understand me :)