How to Avoid Hitting Popups in Pickleball

Pickleball, a sport that has been rapidly growing in popularity, presents players with a common issue hitting the ball too high, also known as "popping up" the ball. This can leave players vulnerable to aggressive shots from their opponents, ultimately affecting their gameplay and overall performance on the court.
To address this problem effectively, players must first understand the root cause of the issue.
Popping up the ball often occurs when players have difficulty controlling the speed and height of their shots, leading to unfavorable outcomes during gameplay. The key to avoiding popups in pickleball lies in mastering specific techniques and adopting a strategic approach to your gameplay. By focusing on improving your control over the ball and implementing tactical strategies, you can enhance your skills and minimize the occurrence of popups during matches.

Ways to Avoid Ball Popping Up and High Balls

• Limited Swing: It is important to limit the swing, especially when dealing with balls at waist, knee, or shin level. Over-swinging can result in a loss of control over the ball's height, increasing the chances of it popping up. By keeping the swing minimal, players can maintain better control over their shots. Avoid swinging too hard when hitting the ball in pickleball. Most shots in this game require minimal backswing, so excessive swinging can cause the ball to pop up higher than desired. Focus on a smooth and controlled motion to keep the ball at the right height. When facing fastballs, it's crucial to minimize paddle motion. Quick shots require swift reactions, and excessive movement can cause the ball to pop up unexpectedly. Instead, focus on using your wrists to maintain control and avoid making large swings that could disrupt your shot.

• Balanced Movement: Maintaining stability is key to avoiding the ball from popping up. Players should focus on keeping a low center of gravity and distributing their weight on the balls of their feet. This stance enables quick and controlled movements on the court.
  Another tip is to stay still while hitting the ball. Moving around while trying to make a shot can result in less accuracy and control over the paddle and the ball's trajectory. Keeping a stable stance will help you maintain better control. Maintaining a good balance is essential for success in any sport. By keeping your weight slightly forward and ensuring your heels are off the ground, you can stay in control of your movements and avoid making unbalanced shots. This simple adjustment can make a big difference in your overall performance.

• Lighter Grip: To prevent the ball from popping up, it is recommended to use a lighter grip, ideally around 3 to 5 on a scale of 1 to 10. This helps in controlling the trajectory of the ball and allows for more precise shots. To prevent hitting the ball too high, it is important to loosen your grip on the paddle. A tight grip can lead to the ball flying higher than intended, so make sure to keep your grip relaxed to maintain a flat paddle angle for better control. Having the right mindset and self-assurance is crucial when it comes to performing well. Instead of letting fear cloud your judgment, acknowledge the risks and concentrate on executing your shots with precision. Confidence is a major factor in how well you perform on the court. Having soft hands is extremely important, especially when dealing with low balls. It allows for better control and prevents the ball from popping up. On the other hand, gripping the paddle too tightly can result in a locked wrist and an open paddle face, which can lead to the same outcome.

Think quick
Avoid reaching too far beyond your comfort zone. Maintain a good athletic stance and let the ball come to you. Make quick decisions to avoid mishits. Focus on volleying when possible and use a drop step dink for balls close to your feet. It’s acceptable to step back off the non-volley zone line temporarily for a step back dink. Ensure you quickly return to the line after executing this shot.

Conclusion
To prevent those pesky pop-ups in pickleball, it's important to utilize a mix of physical techniques, mental preparedness, and strategic gameplay. By honing in on these key areas, players can elevate their ball control, resulting in a more intense and satisfying game. Keep in mind that practice and patience are essential ingredients for mastering these techniques and taking your pickleball skills to the next level.