Although a bad shot is an inherent part of any game, in pickleball, it can prove especially detrimental when every point counts. A single pop-up at a crucial time can make all the difference between winning and losing a crucial match.
Derived primarily from tennis, pickleball uses distinct paddles and balls and necessitates different techniques and strategies. Furthermore, the smaller court size makes it common for beginners and non-professional players to struggle with popping the ball up, often resulting in a lost serve or dropped points.
So, how can you put an end to popping the ball up in pickleball? In this article, I will discuss several effective techniques and tricks to help you improve your game and prevent those frustrating pop-ups.
Let’s explore them.
Table of Contents
What is Popping Up the Ball in Pickleball?
Popping the ball up in pickleball simply refers to hitting the ball high. This type of shot always gives chances to your opponents to hit aggressively. People, mostly beginners, often make mistakes they are compelled to pop up the ball when the opponents are skilled, having more control over the game.
Why Do You Need to Stop Pop Up the Ball?
Pop-ups in pickleball gift your opponent an advantage to return the ball with force providing them with enough time and opportunity. This can be particularly detrimental when facing strong shots like overheads, as they can make it challenging for you to return the shot effectively. Whether you’re the server risking wasted serves or the receiver risking lost points, it’s crucial to gain control of your paddle and avoid returning shots too high, which results in pop-ups.
By tracking the ball quickly and returning it over the net, you increase your chances of maintaining control and avoiding forced pop-ups. This allows you to stay in the rally, keep your opponent on their toes, and maintain the upper hand in the game. Besides, minimizing pop-ups enables you to maintain momentum, capitalize on scoring opportunities, and avoid unnecessary errors that can turn the tide of the match.
In the following sections, I will share a range of useful tips and techniques that have proven effective in reducing pop-ups. By combining these strategies into your game, you can improve your shot control and overall performance.
How to Stop Popping the Ball Up in Pickleball
So, now, you’re well aware of the frustrating consequences of shooting balls that pop up. But how can you prevent them from happening? Just like addressing any other flaw in pickleball, it’s crucial to understand the root causes of pop-ups.
Avoiding pop-ups in pickleball can be quite challenging. The key is to take control of the game and prevent your opponent from dictating the pace. First of all, slowing down your shots is an effective strategy. Then, to further minimize pop-ups, you might consider using the reset shot technique. Two effective types of reset shots are the drop shot, which involves gently dropping the ball over the net, and the soft lob, which provides a higher arc and controlled placement. Besides, you can greatly reduce the chances of the ball popping up by hitting the ball at a neutral level, particularly from the non-volley zone.
However, some common tricks that help during the game are:
- Keep your grip relax
- Stop shots with motion
- Avoid returning with overswings
Keep your grip relax
The primary cause of popping the ball up is returning shots with a tightly held paddle or taking a direct, forceful shot. And these are mostly done by newcomers to pickleball. They often make mistakes by gripping the paddle too tightly from the start. Also, players who used to play tennis before pickleball might have a similar issue with adjusting the tight grip on a smaller court of pickleball.
While you know that a competitive game with various shots and drives may require a certain level of grip strength, relying solely on a tight grip can result in unwanted pop-ups. To regain control over your return shots, it’s important for you to occasionally reassess your grip, ensuring it remains relaxed. It also helps to slow down the game and can prove beneficial.
While holding the paddle firmly may provide strength, maintaining a relaxed grip allows for greater flexibility in paddle movement, enabling you to adjust angles and effectively prevent the ball from popping up.
Try to stop returning shots while in movements
Another factor that often leads you to send the ball high in the air is returning shots while running on the court. During fast-paced rallies or long-continued rallies, it can be common for beginners, or even experienced also, to lose control over the placement of the ball on the other side of the net. And that situation makes it difficult to execute a neutral shot exactly where you want it.
To avoid pop-up balls, you need to regain control. Take a moment to catch your breath and focus on stability. Avoid excessive running and prioritize stability on the court. You need to practice footwork to improve your ability to move and position yourself effectively on the court.
Also, optimal positioning is key to gaining control over your shots. Stand with stability, maintaining a loose grip, and position yourself behind the non-volley zone. By adopting this approach, you can minimize the likelihood of hitting the pickleball without a full range of motion and increase your shot control.
Avoid returning with overswings
Overswinging is another common reason for producing a pop-up in pickleball. When returning your opponent’s shot, focus on sending it to the other side with control through a straight motion or with a reduced swing.
Now, you may be wondering how to maintain control of the game and keep your opponent on their toes without excessive arm motions. It’s important to note that an overswing is only necessary when you need to strike the ball with force. Not every return shot requires power, and attempting to do so, especially near the kitchen area, often results in the ball sailing high above the net.
When your arm movements become too wide, it becomes inevitable that the ball will pop up over the net. Reserve overswinging for situations where the ball comes to you at a low height, and even then, return to a stable position promptly and opt for a reset shot.
By focusing on controlled motions and avoiding excessive swings, you can minimize pop-ups and maintain better shot placement in pickleball.
Final Verdicts
Returning shots high in the air or popping up on the pickleball court gives your opponent a good chance to unleash forceful overhead shots, ultimately resulting in lost serves or points for you. Throughout this article, I have explored several proven tips and techniques to guide you in avoiding popping the ball up.
By implementing these strategies, you will significantly improve your ability to maintain control and precision in your shots. Remember, practicing in proper ways with consistency is the key to honing your skills on the pickleball court.
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences and insights, we encourage you to leave a comment below. Let’s continue to learn from each other and further enhance our pickleball game.
