In this video we’re going to borrow a few cues from a former volleyball player to help you play better pickleball defense.
Get in a ready position. Come into the court where you think the ball is going to be. If we’re going to defend a shot, we generally defend balls at our feet.
Stop your momentum. Why is this important? If we have momentum coming from our body, that’s energy from our body that translates into energy into the paddle and ultimately energy into the ball, which now can create another pop up for your opponents against the net.
Paddle to the ball. Because time is of the essence, bend down and the move the paddle to get to a ball that’s hit at our feet.
Then simply to absorb the energy.
Here’s the thing to remember, when you’re in a defensive position here, you’re defending something at your feet. Truly, the damage is already done. All I’m trying to do is get the ball back one more time and live to hit another shot.
Check out the video for more ways to improve your pickleball defense plus a bonus tip!
Links Mentioned In The Video
Learn How To Control The Court And ‘Beat The Banger
How to Improve Your Defense and Eliminate Pop Ups in Pickleball
CJ Johnson
Hey there — I’m a professional three-sport athlete and coach who has spent my entire adult life earning a living from playing and coaching sports. Since I started coaching more than three decades ago, one thing has remained the same: My commitment to see students not as they are but as what they can become and to move heaven and earth to help them realize their untapped potential. You should know that when it comes to helping pickleball players over 50 live their best lives on and off the courts, I'm an expert. Good pickleball is not just technique; it's the mind and body working holistically. That's why I'm also a personal trainer and weight management specialist. When I’m chillin', you'll find me watching Star Trek with my husband John and our two fur babies, Shirley and Ralph. (Yes, Happy Days)