Moving On From A Bad Shot

In today’s mini-lesson, I want to tackle a common issue we all encounter on the pickleball court. You know the scenario: you’re in a match, and you lose a point, maybe even after hitting what you thought was a great shot. Suddenly, you’re hesitant to attempt that shot again because it resulted in a point against you.

Well, I’m here to tell you that moving on from a bad shot is absolutely crucial for success on the court. Dwelling on the past, especially a single shot, won’t do you any favors. In fact, it can hinder your performance. Let’s face it, there’s no time to dwell on what’s already happened. Once a shot is in the past, it’s out of your control. The ability to shake it off and focus on the next point is a skill we all need to master.

I often incorporate rally scoring games in practice for this very reason. In these games, every point counts, and it keeps you fully engaged. Unlike traditional scoring, where you might not lose a point if you make an error, rally scoring keeps you accountable for every point. It’s an excellent way to train your mind to move forward and stay focused on each shot.

Another key aspect is trusting your shots. I’ve seen it time and time again—players attempt a shot, it doesn’t work out once, and they abandon it for the rest of the match. Just because something didn’t succeed once doesn’t mean it won’t in the future. It’s vital to have confidence in your abilities and trust your shots, even when you’re feeling the pressure.

So, when you’re in the heat of match play and things aren’t going your way, try to shake off the frustration. Tap your partner’s paddle, reset your focus, and think about your plan for the next point. Having a clear target in mind is essential. Instead of just hitting the ball, aim for a specific spot on the court. This keeps your mind in sync with your body and helps maintain your performance level.

Remember, don’t let past points haunt you. Your only option is to move forward and concentrate on what’s ahead.

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