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.
A set pregame routine is the secret to all top athletes’ success. Those who play pickleball are no different. In pickleball, a pregame ritual helps players of all levels play better, feel calmer, and have more fun.
Get your pre-game routine game on
1. Arrive Early:
Get to the court 15 minutes before game time. Checking your paddle, shoes, and making sure you have enough water will give you the confidence to play your best
2. Dynamic Warm-Up:
Jogging in place, twisting your torso, swinging your arms, squats, and side steps will help you get your game on. Warm-ups are also critical to preventing injuries.
3. Practice Key Shots:
Get things moving by practicing your forehand, backhand, and dinks. Think form and consistency; no need to make it about power.
4. Mental Check-In:
Take a few deep breaths and set a simple goal, like “I’ll focus on getting to the kitchen line quickly.”
5. Serve Practice:
Hit a handful of serves to get your timing down.
Make It Your Own
Your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is consistency. Over time, your mind and body will associate your routine with readiness and confidence.
Pro Mindset: Believe in Yourself
Confidence is key, as the Pickler noted in this oldie but goodie from the pickleball highlight reel. During the 2018 Margaritaville USA Pickleball National Championships, Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau were the underdogs. They climbed up from the bottom rung to the championship’s gold medal match face-off with Lucy Kovalova and Irina Tereschenko. Waters and Parenteau started down 7-0, but at match point for Kovalova and Tereschenko (14-10), Waters said to Pareneau: “I think we are going to win. We can do this!” They did 15-17.
