Are you ready to take your pickleball game to the next level? Look no further than The Rec at the Lakefront! Known for its picturesque setting and state-of-the-art facilities, this soon-to-be-popular venue is the perfect place to practice and compete. If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve got a list of the best pickleball drills that will undoubtedly improve your game.
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. In recent years, this competitive game has become increasingly popular among older adults looking to stay healthy and active. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, practicing pickleball drills can help you improve your skills and technique.
Arm Strengthening Drills
Having a strong arm is one of the most important characteristics of a top pickleball player. In order to improve your arm strength, try out the following drills to maximize your potential on the court:
Wall Bounce Drill
This drill is surprisingly simple yet extraordinarily effective at strengthening your arm muscles. Stand about two feet from the wall and throw the ball with the backhand, ensuring that each time the ball bounces, it emits a sound on the wall. Take a few minutes each day to complete the drill and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your arm strength improves.
Cross Court Backhand Drill
This drill is also a great way to practice your backhand while also building strength in your arm. Stand on one side of the net and pick a target on the other side. Take a step back and engage your backhand to aim the ball at the target. This will help to improve your accuracy while working to develop arm strength.
Footwork Drills
Strong footwork is just as important as a powerful arm. In order to make sure that you can get to any ball, you should practice these footwork drills:
Backpedal Drill
This drill focuses on improving your ability to move quickly in any direction. Start at the baseline and take two steps backwards. Once you’ve reached your pre-determined distance, quickly return to your starting point. This not only works to improve your backpedaling speed, but also helps you to quickly twist and change directions.
Cross-Court and Angle Drill
This drill is great for improving your lateral movement and foot speed. Stand in the middle of the court and pick a side to place your target. Run to the target and as soon as you get there, return to the middle of the court. Once you become comfortable with the movement, begin implementing side-to-side side steps, as well as quick pivots. This drill will help you to work on building both your speed and agility at the same time.
Accuracy Drills
Accuracy is the name of the game when it comes to pickleball. After practicing your arm strength and footwork, try out these drills to improve your accuracy:
Cross-Court Split Drill
This drill will not only improve your accuracy but also your endurance. Stand on one side of the court and pick three targets: one near the net, one in the middle of the court, and one near the baseline. Hit each target in order, with each target requiring you to cover more distance. Keep hitting the targets back and forth, updating your targets as you go to keep it challenging.
Double Bounce Drill
This drill is great for practicing your control on the ball while also improving your timing. Stand near the mid court area and have a partner aim for your side of the court with the ball bouncing. After it bounces the first time, hit the ball once it has bounced a second time. Keep practicing until you’re able to hit the ball right after the second bounce consistently.
The Rec at The Lakefront is the perfect place to practice and compete in the fun and competitive sport of pickleball. If you are ready to improve your game, give the arm strengthening, footwork, and accuracy drills a try at The Rec and get ready to see significant improvement in your performance.