Barbara WintroubHow good are you at standing on one foot? Most of us would say, “Terrible,” me included. While waiting to make a deposit at the bank today I was standing on one foot, then the other. Might as well do something constructive while in line. In the morning I try to balance on one foot while putting on my socks. Usually I fall into the wall before I get the sock on. Does any of this sound like you?
Good balance is important for good pickleball. Being able to move forward and back and still hit the ball well is key to winning games. Regardless of your skill level, you need to practice your balancing act. While watching a top-rated Nationals player I noticed that her feet moved all the time directly under her body and she was in perfect balance on each dink shot. To improve your balance stand on one foot while brushing your teeth and then alternate feet. Or stand on one foot when checking out at the grocery or department store, or in your kitchen while cooking. Work at it and you’ll soon find yourself better balanced on the court.
Picture # 1 Squat balance for dinking.
Picture #2 Forehand balance from the baseline
Picture #3 Backhand balance from the mid court
