Pickleball Tips - 4.0 To Pro, A Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast

Hey everyone! In this episode of 402p, we dive into a bit of a grab bag with my co-host, Scott Fliegelman. We kick things off with some fun banter and listener engagement, share some exciting personal stories, and then jump into a detailed discussion about evolving pickleball strategies (I talk about a crazy backhand "shield" shot I saw on court ) and techniques. Plus, we answer some questions from our listeners. Tune in for tips on improving reflex speed, dealing with short drops, and mastering the high topspin serve.

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Today we give a few bullets on how to make the jump from 3.5 to 4.0.

(Stay tuned for more detailed show notes)

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We covered dinking on the last episode, now we get into the fun part! Talking the who, what, when, why, and how to attack (instigate) from the kitchen, and how to defend ourselves against those attacks.

Get your own "Diego" training dummy to put on the court. (along with your spinshot ball machine, it's a great combo!) https://amzn.to/3lFQO7S

CRBN Pickleball

Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.

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Today we answer listener questions about difficult shot execution, verbal cues on the court, and changing grip mid point. Then, how to make the jump from 3.5 to 4.0. Finally, what's the best drill to do when you only have a couple minutes and you want the most bang for your buck?

00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings

00:23 Episode Theme and Guest Introduction

02:41 Listener Questions and Expert Advice

07:25 Communication Strategies in Pickleball

14:46 Visualization Techniques for Better Play

19:35 Improving from 3.5 to 4.0 Skill Level

26:21 Grip Adjustments and Paddle Positioning

30:52 Bang for the Buck Drill Sessions

35:21 Conclusion and Call to Action

Jack Munro Drill Sesh: https://youtu.be/9RAwrigvra8?si=6Lsu9X8f5UoHbnpA

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On today's show we are stepping into the kitchen and talking dinking. How should we dink? What are our targets? How can we set ourselves up for success in the kitchen with some strategic dinks? What techniques do the pros use? All of this and more in this ep!

CRBN Pickleball

Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.

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Today we delve into the nuances of playing pickleball with a referee present. We talk about the additional pressure and dynamics a referee brings to a game. Topics covered include the significance of making prompt and proper outcalls, protocols around serve routines, and foot faults, as well as the importance of establishing a rapport with the referee. Practical advice is given on how to handle incorrect scores and the procedures for challenging line calls. Whether you're moving up the ranks or just looking to refine your game, this episode is packed with advice to help you play your best when there’s a ref on the court.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:20 Discussing the APP NYC Event

00:56 The Role of Referees in Professional Pickleball

02:56 Strategies for Playing with a Referee

03:58 Pre-Match Decisions and Strategies

05:00 Warm-Up and Match Preparation

11:24 Handling Line Calls and Disputes

13:03 Serving Rules and Protocols

17:18 Foot Faults and Common Referee Calls

20:08 Stacking and Positioning Clarifications

21:31 Out Calls and Replay Rules

27:44 Advanced Referee Rules and Tips

28:26 Conclusion and Farewell

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**NOTE: Since this episode has published, the Gen 3 paddles from Gearbox, Joola, and others have hit the market. So, much of what we talked about can be extrapolated to these new paddles.

Pickleball Paddle technology has taken huge leaps and bounds in the last 3 years or so. Shots that were previously impossible are now commonplace due to the gritty carbon fiber surfaces that higher end paddles come with. So, how do pros choose their paddles? How do they set them up? What does lead tape do, and where should we put it? All of this and more in this episode.

CRBN Pickleball

Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.

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Today, we delve into the critical importance of your FEET in pickleball. We kick off with a shoutout to Michael from Jilly Bee's (Jill Braverman) podcast and celebrate their show ranking #23 globally in trending new shows. They emphasize the need for appropriate footwear, the intricacies of footwork for different shots, and drills to improve stability and efficiency on the court. Michael shares his unique warm-up routine involving jump ropes to keep his lower body agile and strong, while Scott recommends a neuro ball for foot health. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your game or simply avoid injuries, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take care of your most important pickleball asset – your feet!

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Shoutouts

01:58 The Importance of Footwork in Pickleball

04:46 Choosing the Right Footwear

07:13 Footwork Techniques and Drills

14:46 Advanced Strategies: Split Steps and Shot Selection

26:23 Strengthening Your Feet for Pickleball

28:55 Conclusion and Final Tips

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Today Senior Pro Scott Fliegelman (@boulderpickleball) and 4-point-something Michael O'Neal (@solohour) talk about how to get better at pickleball every time you play. We talk about what to do when you're solo, what to do with three players, how to choose a coach, great drills, and how to play above and below your current level.

CRBN Pickleball

Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.

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Today Michael shares his experience from the APP tournament at Flushing Meadows in New York City. Michael recounts playing in various events, including the Humana Cup and senior pro singles and doubles, reflecting on his growth and strategy adjustments, including (spoiler alert) his first senior pro win! The episode also covers drills like the instigator drill, the importance of adapting playing styles, and advice on finding the right paddle, including feedback on the Selkirk Labs 006. Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences and questions for future episodes. 

00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro: The Pickleball Podcast

00:09 Recording Under Unique Circumstances

00:52 Recapping the APP Event in New York City

01:27 Tournament Experiences and Strategies

04:17 The Transition from Semi-Pro to Pro

06:15 Q&A: Adapting to Your Partner's Play Style

11:21 Drills and Techniques for Improving Your Game

20:24 Exploring Paddle Options and Strategies

24:27 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

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