Whether you’re a beginner or looking to level up, preparation — both mental and physical — can help you step onto the court ready for anything. Here’s how to build your pickleball confidence with tips from a few pros.
Master the Basics and Set Small Goals
Knowing the rules and fundamentals is the first step to feeling confident. Spend time learning scoring, serving, and kitchen line rules. Practice regularly and set achievable goals, like hitting 10 consistent serves or dinking for five minutes without an error. Each small win builds your belief in yourself.
BEFORE YOU GET STARTED
Take stock of your physical health and be sure you have the right equipment and supplies as well..
Ask yourself if you are prepared for the movement required in pickleball? Moving sideways, running backwards….evaluate what you are ready to try. Having fun or being competitive? Either way – you want to avoid injury.
A checklist could include:
- Do I have the right footwear for pickleball.
- Do I have eye protection.
- Skin protection, if outdoor.
- Hydration – bring your own water supply to be sure.
- Apparel – loose fit for movement, not so loose that you will stumble.
Warm Up Like a Pro
- A proper warm-up is essential for peak performance and injury prevention pro Catherine Parenteau told Business Insider,
“A warm-up and cool down is really important,” says Parenteau, who uses jogging, grapevine steps, lunges and dynamic stretching to wake up her muscles. “I see amateurs just go out and start playing. No one wants to take the time to drill.”
Parenteau’s other words of wisdom: “Practice hitting every shot that you would in a match.”
Build a Pre-Match Routine
A consistent pre-match routine — think stretching, bouncing the ball, or deep breathing — helps settle nerves and focus your mind. Visualization is another powerful tool. Picture yourself making strong serves and quick moves. Top athletes use this mindfulness pregame to boost confidence and calm nerves.
Stay Positive and Focused
Pickleball is as much a mental game as a physical one. As one of our fave motivational quotes puts it: “Your biggest opponent in pickleball is often your own mindset.”
Lean into what you can control: your effort and attitude. And keep an open mind: You can learn something from every point — yours and your opponent’s.
Celebrate Progress
After your match, reflect on what went well. Did you hit a few great serves or communicate well with your partner? Celebrate these wins, no matter how small. Confidence is built one step at a time.
