Are you having difficulty achieving consistent success at the net in pickleball? If so, you’re not alone. Many players struggle to consistently hit the ball where they want and make the dinks they need. Fortunately, there are some simple techniques you can use to help improve your consistency. In this article, the Paddle Experts at JustPaddles outline five simple tips to become a better dinker. As always, if you have any additional pickleball questions, don't hesitate to contact our friendly Paddle Experts at 866-382-3465, experts@justpaddles.com, or you can click here to live chat.
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What Is Dinking in Pickleball and How To Do It
So, what is dinking in pickleball? In short, dinking refers to a soft and controlled shot where players lightly tap the ball over the net, usually executed near the kitchen line, with the intention of forcing the opponent to make a difficult return.
To recap what Paddle Expert Ben Croft outlined in the video, here are five tips to help you dink more consistently:
1. Take a deep breath, be athletic, and relax.
One of the most common mistakes made by pickleball players is rushing their shots. When you rush your shots, you don’t give yourself enough time to line up and make solid contact with the ball. Try to slow down and focus on your form and technique each time you hit the ball. This will help you improve your accuracy and consistency.
2. Always keep your paddle out front!
By always keeping your pickleball paddle out in front of you, you will not only be ready for any dink hit your way but also if your opponent decides to speed the rally up. EPP, or Early Paddle Prep, will make an immediate and drastic positive impact on your dinking and defense!
3 . Lock in that wrist!
Keep your wrist locked, and do not break it as you stroke through the ball. Keeping your wrist firm and in place will skyrocket your consistency.
4 . Focus on following through.
Just like a serve or ground stroke, you will strike through the ball and not to the ball. Making sure you always follow through will lead to more spin but, more importantly, more consistency.
5. Visualize your shots.
Before you hit the ball, take a few seconds to visualize your shot. Imagine where you want the ball to go and how you want to hit it. This will help you stay focused and hit more consistent shots.
Bonus: Practice. Practice. (and practice some more!)
As with any sport, practice makes perfect. Make sure to spend time on the court practicing your shots and fine-tuning your technique. The more you practice, the more consistent you’ll become.
Stay Positive: It’s easy to get frustrated when you’re not playing well. However, it’s important to stay positive and keep a positive attitude. This will help you stay focused and motivated to improve your game. By following these five tips, you should be able to drink more consistently in pickleball. Remember to stay positive and practice regularly. With enough time and effort, you’ll be able to improve your consistency and become a better player.
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