Facilities
3 Steps to Build Anticipation in Pickleball (and Stop Reacting Late)
The Dink
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June 11, 2026
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Today
The Dinkfacilities
Anticipation in pickleball is the skill that separates players who always look rushed from players who always look ready. Here are the three steps coaches use to build it.
The world of pickleball has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, with players transitioning from a reactive mindset to a proactive one. At the heart of this transformation lies the skill of anticipation, which enables players to stay one step ahead of their opponents and dominate the court. Coaches have long recognized the importance of anticipation in pickleball, and now, they're sharing their secrets with the world. In this article, we'll delve into the three steps coaches use to build anticipation in pickleball and explore why it matters to fans.
The first step in building anticipation is to develop a strong court awareness. This involves being aware of the position of the ball, the movement of the opponent, and the placement of the paddle. Coaches emphasize the importance of maintaining a high level of focus throughout the game, as even a split-second lapse in attention can lead to a missed opportunity. By cultivating a strong court awareness, players can anticipate the trajectory of the ball and position themselves for a winning shot. This skill is particularly crucial in pickleball, where the court is smaller and the game is faster-paced than in other racquet sports.
The second step in building anticipation is to improve reaction time. While anticipation is about being proactive, reaction time is about being responsive. Coaches recommend practicing reaction drills, such as hitting a ball that's been tossed or hit with a slight delay. By improving reaction time, players can quickly respond to unexpected shots and stay ahead of their opponents. This skill is essential in pickleball, where the game is often characterized by rapid-fire shots and unexpected bounces.
The third step in building anticipation is to develop a strong shot selection. This involves choosing the right shot at the right time, taking into account the position of the opponent, the placement of the paddle, and the trajectory of the ball. Coaches emphasize the importance of being selective with shots, as a well-placed shot can be more effective than a powerful one. By developing a strong shot selection, players can anticipate the opponent's response and stay one step ahead.
The ability to anticipate in pickleball is a game-changer, and coaches are now sharing their secrets with the world. By following these three steps – developing a strong court awareness, improving reaction time, and developing a strong shot selection – players can build anticipation and dominate the court. As the game continues to evolve, fans can expect to see more players incorporating these skills into their game, leading to a more exciting and competitive pickleball scene.
