I know I have written about tracking the ball before…but it cannot be emphasized too much. It is perhaps the most important factor impacting a player’s ability to anticipate and prepare for the next shot.
arms extended
Many players rest their arms against their body when I ask them to get in a ready position. Instead, I want you to think of the movie Dirty Dancing…specifically when Johnny teaches Baby about the importance of a strong frame. Like a frame in dancing…you need space between your arms and your body for two reasons:
- You want to be able to engage your shoulders and your hips when you swing. Bending your elbows and resting them against your body prevents this from happening.
- Our tendency when holding the paddle near our body is to allow the ball to get too close to us. Our natural reaction is to step or lean back. In pickleball, like in life, we always want to move forward.
Non-Dominant hand
Toes to head
When I work with a student on tracking the ball, I emphasize starting at your toes and maintaining alignment all the way to the head. You start with your toes toward the ball. Next, your hips. You move your core and shoulders, allowing your head to move smoothly to the side. It really is very much like a dance…a smooth, rhythmic motion that utilizes your entire body.
If you still have questions on tracking the ball…watch the following video.
