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Becoming a 5.0
Paul from Pickleball Daily
October 27, 2025
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Tip of the day
This video details seven common pickleball mistakes made by 3.5 and 4.0 level players that prevent them from reaching a 5.0 rating.
The first mistake is being reactive instead of proactive at the kitchen line; players must use their paddle tip to track the ball, ensuring they are prepared for a speed-up.
When approaching the Non-Volley Zone after a third shot, lower-level players stand upright, but pros use a low, crab-like position to be ready to reset.
During a hands battle, amateur players try to hit through their opponent, but the correct tactic is to hit down toward their feet to force a pop-up.
Lazy footwork, or cement feet, is the root cause of many problems, so players should remain active and on their toes at all times.
The ready position at the kitchen line should be low during a dink exchange, but high and outstretched when the opponents are still at the baseline.
A crucial tactic is to never drive two balls in a row from the baseline; a drive should be followed by a drop shot to facilitate moving to the net.
The final mistake is not properly handling hard drives, which is fixed by starting the paddle already out in front instead of reaching late.
Key Points:
Be proactive at the kitchen line by using your paddle tip to track the opponent's ball.
Approach the Non-Volley Zone low, in a crab-like position, to be ready for resets.
In a hands battle, aim down toward the opponent's feet to force a high ball.
Maintain active and physical footwork at all times to avoid being anchored down with cement feet.
Use a low ready position during kitchen exchanges and a high, outstretched position when the opponent is at the baseline.
Never drive two balls in a row from the baseline; follow the first drive with a drop shot to move forward.
To handle hard drives, position your paddle already out in front before the opponent makes contact.
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That’s it for today! As always, thank you for reading. 🙏
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Happy pickling,
Paul