Pickleball Drills and Exercises: Lobs and Passing Shots - Taking Control from the Baseline

Facing a dominant net player in pickleball can be frustrating. Their volleys and smashes keep you on the defensive, limiting your ability to attack. But fear not, baseline warriors! Lobs and passing shots are your weapons to counter the net game, regaining control and keeping your opponents off-balance.

Lobs: When and How:

• Purpose:

  • A lob is a high, soft shot played over your opponent at the net, forcing them to retreat to the baseline.
  • It disrupts their aggressive positioning and buys you time to recover and strategize your next shot.

• When to Use:

  • When your opponent is positioned close to the net, ready to volley or smash.
  • Against powerful overheads or volleys that are difficult to return directly.

• Technique:

  • Grip: Use a continental grip (hammer grip) or a modified eastern grip (handshake grip with your thumb positioned slightly more towards the backhand side) for control.
  • Stance: Maintain a balanced stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
  • Preparation: Keep the paddle head back with the paddle face angled slightly upwards (around 45 degrees) to lift the ball.
  • Backswing: Initiate a short, controlled backswing with minimal arm movement.
  • Swing: Use a short, flicking motion with your wrist and forearm, focusing on brushing the ball with the sweet spot to create lift.
  • Follow-Through: Maintain a small follow-through to keep your paddle controlled.

Passing Shots: When and How:

• Purpose:

  • A passing shot is a low, angled shot hit around your opponent at the net.
  • It utilizes the space on either side of the net player, forcing them to scramble and potentially leaving them out of position for the next shot.

• When to Use:

  • When your opponent is slightly off-center at the net, creating an opening on one side.
  • Against predictable net players who consistently position themselves in the same spot.

• Technique:

  • Grip: Use a continental grip (hammer grip) or an eastern grip (handshake grip) for control and direction.
  • Stance: Maintain a balanced stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
  • Preparation: Keep your paddle head slightly back with the paddle face angled slightly towards the direction you want the shot to go.
  • Backswing: Initiate a short backswing appropriate for the intended power of the shot.
  • Swing: Swing the paddle forward with a controlled motion, brushing the ball with the sweet spot to achieve the desired angle and depth.
  • Follow-Through: Extend your arm slightly in the direction of the shot for a complete stroke and to maintain balance.

Drills and Exercises:

• Lob Drill:

  • Stand at the baseline and have a partner volley balls towards you. Practice hitting lobs that clear the net and land deep in your opponent's court.
  • Utilize a ball machine set to a high trajectory to practice lobs with a consistent feed.

• Passing Shot Drill:

  • Stand at the baseline with a partner at the net. Have your partner feed you balls that mimic net play situations. Practice hitting passing shots to either side of the net player.
  • Set up cones on the court to represent the net players and practice hitting passing shots around them.

Tips for Success:

• Accuracy is Key: Focus on accuracy when hitting lobs and passing shots. A well-placed shot is far more effective than a powerful one that sails out of bounds.

• Vary Your Shots: Don't become predictable! Mix up lobs and passing shots along with groundstrokes to keep your opponent guessing where you'll aim the ball.

• Communication with Partner: If playing doubles, communicate with your partner regarding lob and passing shot strategy. This ensures coordinated play and avoids both players hitting the same shot.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Mastering lobs and passing shots takes dedication and consistent practice. Utilize drills and exercises to refine your technique and gain confidence in these crucial shots.

By mastering these techniques and drills, you'll be well-equipped to counter your opponent's net game. Remember, lobs and passing shots are essential tools for regaining control of the baseline and keeping your opponents on their toes. So, grab your paddle, practice these shots, and unleash your inner baseline champion!