8 Must-Try Ball Feeling Drills for Perfecting Pickleball

Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has gained immense popularity in recent years. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, the key to elevating your pickleball skills lies in mastering the art of ball feeling. This essential skill involves developing a delicate touch and precise control over the ball, allowing players to make strategic shots with finesse and accuracy. In this blog, we will explore the significance of ball feeling in pickleball and delve into a variety of drills that can help you sharpen this crucial aspect of your game.

Understanding Ball Feeling in Pickleball:

Ball feeling, also known as touch, refers to the ability to control the ball with precision, using subtle movements of the paddle and a keen sense of timing. In pickleball, where the court is smaller than in tennis and the game often unfolds at a rapid pace, developing excellent ball feeling is paramount. It enables players to execute a wide range of shots, including soft dinks, drops, and volleys, with accuracy and finesse.

The Drills:

1. Soft Dinks Drill: To kickstart your journey toward better ball feeling, begin with the soft dinks drill. Stand close to the net and engage in a gentle exchange of soft shots with your practice partner. Focus on the subtle movements of your wrist and fingers as you make contact with the ball. Gradually increase the distance between you and your partner, challenging yourself to maintain control over the ball's placement and trajectory.

2. Target Practice: Set up targets on the court using cones or markers. Practice hitting the ball to specific targets, honing in on different areas of the court. This drill not only improves accuracy but also sharpens your ability to control the ball precisely, a crucial component of effective ball feeling.

3. Third Shot Drops: Work on your third-shot drops, a pivotal skill in pickleball strategy. Position yourself near the non-volley zone and practice gently dropping the ball over the net. Pay close attention to the height and angle of your shots, striving for a consistent and controlled drop that keeps your opponents on their toes.

4. Wall Drills: Utilize a practice wall to enhance your ball feeling. Hit the ball against the wall and receive it back, varying the speed and angle of your shots. This drill simulates different game situations, improving your reaction time and touch. The repetitive nature of wall drills reinforces muscle memory, helping you develop a more intuitive feel for the ball.

5. Two-Bounce Rally: Elevate the challenge by engaging in a two-bounce rally with your practice partner. Allow the ball to bounce twice before responding, forcing you to focus on touch and control. This drill extends the time the ball is in contact with your paddle, demanding a heightened level of finesse in your shots.

6. Soft Touch Volleys: Mastering soft touch volleys is a key aspect of ball feeling. Practice these volleys close to the net, emphasizing control over power. Use your wrist and fingers to absorb the energy of the incoming ball and guide it precisely. Developing a delicate touch in your volleys will significantly enhance your overall ball feeling on the court.

7. Serving Accuracy: Set up targets on the opposite side of the court and practice serving with precision. Experiment with different types of serves, including soft touch serves that barely clear the net. Serving accuracy is not only about starting the point off right but also about showcasing your ball feeling prowess from the very beginning.

8. Random Ball Placement: Challenge yourself by having a practice partner feed you balls randomly to different areas of the court. Respond with controlled shots, adjusting your paddle angle and touch based on the ball's unpredictable trajectory. This drill improves your adaptability and reinforces your ability to handle various ball placements during a game. 

In the world of pickleball, where every shot matters, developing exceptional ball feeling is the key to unlocking your full potential as a player. The drills mentioned above are designed to progressively enhance your touch, control, and finesse on the court. Consistent practice of these exercises will not only elevate your pickleball skills but also contribute to a more enjoyable and satisfying playing experience. So, lace up your court shoes, grab your paddle, and embark on the journey to mastering the art of pickleball through the essential drill of ball feeling.