Advanced Pickleball Strategies & Training Tips

At the advanced level, pickleball becomes a game of strategy, precision, and mental toughness. This guide will introduce you to high-level tactics and training methods that will help you outthink and outplay your opponents.

Advanced Tactics

Stacking in Doubles

• Understanding stacking strategies
• When and how to implement stacking
• Communicating effectively with your partner during stacks

Erne Shots

• Technique for executing Erne shots
• When to attempt an Erne
• Practicing safe Erne execution

Around-the-Post (ATP) Shots

• Understanding the rules and execution of ATP shots
• Recognizing opportunities for ATP shots
• Drills to improve ATP accuracy

Advanced Serve Strategies

• Developing a variety of serves (power, spin, placement)
• Serving strategies based on opponent weaknesses
• Disguising your serve intentions

Tactical Timeouts

• Using timeouts strategically to disrupt opponent momentum
• Mental reset techniques during timeouts
• Timeout communication with your partner

Pattern Play

• Recognizing and exploiting play patterns
• Creating and breaking patterns to keep opponents off-balance
• Drills to improve pattern recognition and response

Advanced Training Methods

Video Analysis

• Recording and analyzing your matches
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses in your game
• Using video to study top players' techniques

Situation-Based Drills

• Creating drills that simulate specific game scenarios
• Practicing decision-making under pressure
• Improving adaptability to different play styles

Mental Game Training

• Visualization techniques for peak performance
• Developing pre-point routines for consistency
• Stress management techniques for high-pressure situations

Cross-Training

• Incorporating other sports or activities to enhance overall athleticism
• Plyometric exercises for explosive power
• Yoga or Pilates for improved flexibility and core strength

Advanced Fitness Training

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) for improved court coverage
• Agility drills for quicker reactions
• Strength training focused on pickleball-specific movements

Interested in competing? Check out our Guide to Pickleball Tournaments for advanced players.

Pro Tips for Advanced Players

• Develop a comprehensive pre-game warm-up and post-game cool-down routine
• Keep a training journal to track progress and identify areas for improvement
• Seek out high-level competition regularly to continue challenging yourself
• Consider working with a professional coach for personalized guidance