Better-Pickleball-V2-188
By: CJ Johnson | May 26, 2025 |

What’s Your Pickleball Learning Style?

What Type of Pickleball Player Are You?

If you’re looking to learn to play pickleball, chances are you fall into one of two groups. After coaching players for over seven years and interacting with thousands more online (hello, YouTube!), I’ve found that when it comes to learning pickleball, players usually approach the game in one of two ways:

  1. The Quick Fixer – You want your pickleball problem solved now. You’re hunting for a quick tip or a one-off solution.

  2. The Curious Learner – You still want your problem solved, but you’re open to understanding the why behind the technique.

If you’re serious about improving your pickleball game, let me share why the second approach leads to more complete, long-term success — and why it might even save you time.

The Illusion of Speed: Why Quick Tips Fall Short

Think of learning pickleball like assembling IKEA furniture. If you’re only putting together one piece, finding a 30-second video that shows you exactly how to attach a stubborn bolt is perfect. Problem solved. On to the next.

But what if you’re going to be assembling hundreds or even thousands of slightly different pieces over the next few years? Suddenly, that one tip isn’t so useful. You’ll be back online tomorrow searching for another fix.

Pickleball is the same way.

If you’re constantly looking for the next quick pickleball tip, your progress will stall. Because each match, opponent, and shot variation will leave you feeling like you’re starting from scratch.

The Power of Why: Building a Framework for Learning

Now, imagine you take the time to learn how furniture components work together. You start to understand how pieces function and fit, and suddenly, you’re building confidently—without needing a how-to video every time.

This is what we call the Framework of Pickleball.

Learning the why behind each shot, movement, and strategy transforms you from a tip-collector to a confident, capable player. You begin to troubleshoot your own game. You recognize patterns. You adjust in real-time. You play smarter.

Yes, it takes more time upfront. But in the long run? You save hours—not just watching YouTube, but also correcting bad habits that quick tips can create.

Learn to Play Pickleball the Smart Way

If you’re currently a Quick Fixer, there’s nothing wrong with that. We all start somewhere. But I invite you to step into Group 2—the Curious Learner. You’ll enjoy the game more, improve faster, and have way more fun along the way.

And if you’re already in Group 2? Keep going! You’re building a foundation that will serve your game for years to come.

When you’re ready to dive deeper, explore the strategy, and master the “why” behind the best pickleball players, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

See you in class.

🎯 Ready to Learn Pickleball the Smart Way?

If you’re ready to stop chasing quick tips and start building a real foundation for your pickleball game, we’ve got the perfect next step.

✅ Enjoy our FREE Pickleball Tips – Perfect for players who want to understand the “why” behind better play.
✅ Get expert coaching built on the Framework of Pickleball.
✅ Start seeing results in your very next game.

👉 Click here to get started and take the first step toward smarter, more confident pickleball.

See you on the court!

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)

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