12 Common Mistakes To Avoid As An Intermediate Pickleball Player

Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages. As you progress from a beginner to an intermediate player, you will find that the game becomes more challenging and competitive. To ensure that you continue to improve, it is important to avoid common mistakes that can hold you back. 

12 Common Mistakes To Avoid As An Intermediate Pickleball Player

In this article, we will highlight some of the most common mistakes that intermediate pickleball players make, and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Poor Footwork

One of the most common mistakes that intermediate players make is poor footwork. Pickleball requires quick and precise movements, and if your footwork is not up to par, you will struggle to get to the ball in time. To avoid this mistake, it is important to focus on developing good footwork habits, such as keeping your feet shoulder-width apart and using small, quick steps to get to the ball.

2. Incorrect Grip

Another common mistake that intermediate players make is using an incorrect grip on their paddle. The grip you use can greatly impact your ability to control the ball and make shots. To avoid this mistake, it is important to find a grip that feels comfortable and secure, and to practice using it consistently.

3. Lack of Focus

Intermediate players also often struggle with maintaining focus during matches. Whether it's because of distractions from other players or simply getting caught up in the moment, lack of focus can be a major hindrance to your performance. To avoid this mistake, it is important to stay focused and mentally prepared throughout the entire game. This can be achieved by taking deep breaths, staying hydrated, and visualizing yourself playing your best.

4. Neglecting Strategy

As you become more experienced in pickleball, it can be tempting to rely solely on your physical skills to win matches. However, neglecting strategy can be a major mistake. To avoid this, it is important to continually work on developing and refining your strategic skills, such as court positioning, shot selection, and teamwork with your partner.

5. Ignoring the Rules

it is important to avoid ignoring the rules of the game. Pickleball has specific rules that govern things like serving, scoring, and court boundaries, and failure to follow these rules can result in penalties or even disqualification. To avoid this mistake, it is important to familiarize yourself with the rules and make sure you are following them consistently.

6. Failing to Warm Up Properly

Before starting a game, it is important to warm up properly to prevent injury and improve your performance. This includes stretching, light cardio, and hitting some balls to get a feel for your paddle and the court. Neglecting to warm up can lead to fatigue and decreased performance during the game.

7. Overhitting

Intermediate players may also fall into the trap of overhitting, or trying to hit the ball too hard every time. While power is important, it's also important to have control and precision in your shots. Overhitting can result in errors, and make it easier for your opponents to return the ball. To avoid this mistake, focus on hitting the ball with the right amount of power for the situation, and always aim for consistency and accuracy.

8. Not Moving Quickly Enough

Quick and agile movements are essential in pickleball, and intermediate players who don't move quickly enough can struggle to get to the ball in time. To avoid this mistake, work on improving your footwork and agility through drills and practice. Focus on moving quickly and efficiently, and always be ready to get to the ball as soon as possible.

9. Not Communicating with Your Partner

Teamwork is a big part of pickleball, and failing to communicate with your partner can result in missed opportunities and errors. Make sure to communicate with your partner about where you want the ball, who is covering what part of the court, and any other strategies you want to employ. Good communication can lead to better teamwork and more successful outcomes.

10. Neglecting to Vary Your Shots Selection

Intermediate players may fall into the habit of using the same shots repeatedly, making it easier for their opponents to predict their moves. To avoid this mistake, it's important to vary your shot selection and keep your opponents on their toes. This can include using different types of shots, such as dinks, drop shots, or lobs, or mixing up the speed and placement of your shots.

11. Not Anticipating Your Opponent's Shots

Anticipation is a critical aspect of pickleball, and intermediate players who don't anticipate their opponent's shots can struggle to react in time. To avoid this mistake, work on developing your anticipation skills by studying your opponent's play style, and paying attention to their body language and shot selection. By anticipating their shots, you'll be better prepared to react and make the right play.

12. Ignoring Court Awareness

Court awareness is another important aspect of pickleball, and intermediate players who ignore this can struggle to make effective shots and play good defense. To avoid this mistake, make sure to always be aware of your surroundings, including the court boundaries, the position of other players, and the trajectory of the ball. By staying alert and aware, you'll be better equipped to make smart shots and defend effectively.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can continue to improve your pickleball skills and enjoy the game even more. Remember, the key to success in pickleball is practice, focus, and a commitment to continuous improvement. So grab your paddle, hit the court, and have fun!