Pickleball Tips - 4.0 To Pro, A Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast 18: Simplifying Pickleball
Jul 8, 2025
Mircea and Michael simplify the complexities of pickleball by breaking down common game scenarios and setting achievable goals. They delve into paddle performance, discussing the differences between 14mm and 16mm carbon paddles. The importance of balancing offensive and defensive strategies is emphasized, particularly in relation to serving and non-volley zone positioning. They also share valuable techniques to master the fifth shot drop, ensuring players focus on mental well-being and intentional gameplay to improve their performance.
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14mm Carbon Paddle Felt More Pop
- Mircea played with a fresh 14mm Carbon paddle and found it more powerful and maneuverable than the 16mm.
- He liked the pop but noted ball and temperature differences can change control needs.
Serve To Survive Then Advance
- Get your serve in and then get to the non-volley zone as your first priorities.
- Avoid risky power serves at critical scores; prioritize a consistent, safe serve instead.
Third-Shot Purpose: Create A Shorter Fifth
- When driving on the third, drive to create a shorter, easier fifth rather than to hit a winner.
- When dropping, aim to make the ball bounce in front of opponents so you can advance.