Turning Strategy into Action—Drills for Resets and Drops
Now that we’ve discussed the mindset and importance of execution in slowing the game down, let’s dive into practical ways to train your skills. The drills below are designed to help you reset the ball, improve third shot drops, and master dinking.
1. Kitchen Control Drill
Purpose: Develop touch and consistency in the kitchen.
How to Do It:
- Pair up with a partner and stand at the kitchen line.
- Focus on hitting soft dinks back and forth, aiming to keep the ball low and unattackable.
- Gradually increase the pace but prioritize control over power.
Goal: Maintain a 10-shot rally without errors. Increase this goal as your skills improve.
2. Third Shot Drop Practice
Purpose: Improve your ability to reset the ball and transition to the net.
How to Do It:
- Start at the baseline while your partner stands at the kitchen line.
- Hit third shot drops into the kitchen while your partner feeds you deep balls.
- Focus on proper technique: soft hands, paddle angle, and follow-through.
Goal: Execute 20 successful third shot drops in a row.
3. Reset Drill—Handling Attacks
Purpose: Learn to reset fast-paced shots into the kitchen.
How to Do It:
- Have a partner attack balls at you from mid-court.
- Practice absorbing the pace and resetting the ball softly into the kitchen.
- Emphasize a relaxed grip and short paddle movements.
Goal: Successfully reset 15 out of 20 balls during each session.
4. Dink to Attack Transition
Purpose: Develop the ability to switch from a soft game to an attack.
How to Do It:
- Start a dinking rally at the kitchen line.
- Look for opportunities to speed up the ball off higher dinks.
- Work on recognizing when to attack versus when to reset.
Goal: Execute 3 successful attack transitions without losing the rally.
Building Confidence and Execution
To truly master resets, drops, and dinks, consistency is key. Incorporate these drills into your routine and measure progress weekly. Remember, this is about precision and execution—not perfection.
Pro Tip: Film yourself during drills to analyze form and identify areas for improvement. This is a strategy I’ve used to refine my own game.
Why Precision Training Matters
If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, consider signing up for our Precision Pickleball Training sessions here. These sessions are designed to reinforce the principles we’ve discussed and provide structured coaching to build confidence and consistency.
Final Thoughts—Pickleball Slow Game Mastery
Mastering the art of resets, drops, and dinking is a process that takes commitment, practice, and the right mindset. By focusing on execution, developing patience, and drilling with intention, you can elevate your game and control the pace of play.
What’s Next? Start implementing these drills and strategies in your practice sessions. Share your progress in the comments below or reach out if you’re ready to take the next step with personalized training.
See you on the courts!
