The Changing Meta of Pickleball: Why Practice Needs to Adapt

Pickleball, like any sport, evolves over time. In recent years, we’ve seen a shift in the way the game is played, with more emphasis on speed and fewer dinking rallies. This change in meta has implications for how we practice and approach the game.

The Game is Accelerating

If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you may have noticed that the game is getting faster. Players are hitting harder, moving more quickly, and putting less emphasis on slow, dinking rallies. This shift is likely due to a lack of patience at the recreational level. Players want to get to the net and win points quickly.

What Does This Mean?

If you want to keep up with the changing meta of pickleball, you need to adapt your practice routine. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Practice Volley Exchanges at a Higher Ratio than Dinking

Since the game is speeding up, it’s important to practice your volley exchanges. This means spending more time hitting volleys with your partner and less time dinking. Work on your reflexes, footwork, and shot placement to make sure you can handle the faster pace of play.

1. Don’t Undervalue Dinking

While dinking may be less common than it used to be, it’s still a crucial part of the game. A well-placed dink can be a game-changer, especially against opponents who struggle with the shot. Make sure to practice your dinking technique and use it strategically to steal points from your opponents.

1. Emphasize Speed and Agility in Your Workouts

If you want to keep up with the faster pace of play, you need to be quick on your feet. Make sure to include speed and agility drills in your workouts, such as ladder drills and cone drills. These will help you move more quickly and efficiently on the court.

In Conclusion

The meta of pickleball is changing, and players need to adapt to keep up. Practice your volleys, don’t undervalue dinking, and focus on speed and agility in your workouts. By doing so, you’ll be able to stay ahead of the curve and excel in this ever-evolving sport.

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