Strategy & Technique

Stacie Townsend | 01-17-2024

Picture this: you’re at the Kitchen line, locked in a dink exchange. You decide to speed up the pickleball, only to have it come back at you even faster. After losing the point, your partner urges patience and timing. So, when exactly should you accelerate the game?

When to Speed Up the Pickleball

While the urge to hit the pickleball hard is tempting, patience and precision are key. Here are the optimal conditions for speeding up the game:

Balance is Key: Ensure you are well-balanced. Attempting a speed-up while off-balance usually results in poor execution.

Position Matters: Being in the right position minimizes the opponent’s chances of countering effectively. Ensure you and your partner are strategically placed before initiating a speed-up.

Attackable Shots: Target pickleballs that are at or above the net. Advanced players might manage lower balls with significant topspin, but for most, focus on higher shots.

Hand Speed: If you and your partner have quicker hands than your opponents, you’re more likely to win the ensuing fast-paced exchanges.

Disguise Your Intentions: A speed-up is a setup shot, not a finisher. Conceal your intentions to catch your opponents off guard and induce a weak return.

Opponent’s Weakness: If your opponents struggle with fast-paced shots, take advantage of this by increasing the tempo.

Where to Speed Up the Pickleball

Once you’ve identified the right moment to speed up, where you place the shot becomes crucial. Here are your options:

Off-Speed Speed Up: Instead of hitting as hard as possible, aim for about 70% power with precise placement. Consider these targets:
Middle of the Court: A shot down the middle can cause confusion and poor coordination between opponents.
Open Spaces: Identify and exploit open areas on the court.
Paddle-Side Hip or Shoulder: Aim for the transition zone between forehand and backhand, also known as the “chicken wing,” which is difficult to defend.

Downward Trajectory: Shots that move downward towards your opponents are generally effective.

Mix it Up: Keep your opponents guessing by varying your shot placements.

The All-or-Nothing Speed Up

There are instances where a full-power shot is warranted. Use this tactic sparingly, as it can be seen as overly aggressive in recreational play. Opt for this approach when:

Your opponent is tall, has a wide stance, or is less mobile.
They are positioned close to the Kitchen line, reducing their reaction time.

Generally, direct these powerful shots at the opponent directly in front of you for maximum effectiveness.

Conclusion

Deciding when and where to speed up the pickleball can greatly enhance your gameplay. Remember, the objective is to set up a winning shot, not necessarily to win the point immediately. Stay prepared for the next shot and keep your opponents on their toes.