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Get to the kitchen faster
Paul from Pickleball Daily
January 16, 2026
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Michael Loyd shares a modernized approach to the transition game, moving away from traditional lofty resets in favor of a lower, more linear trajectory.
Many players mistakenly believe that every reset must be a high, slow arc that lands perfectly in the opponent's kitchen.
The modern pro strategy focuses on keeping the ball low and unattackable, even if it doesn't land directly in the kitchen.
By aiming for your opponent's waist or lower, you force them into defensive shots and prevent them from easily smashing the ball.
Aiming for the kitchen is risky because a slight miss can result in a short ball in the net or a high popup that is easily punished.
A lower, "bunty" shot is far more repeatable and reduces the variables that come with a complex low-to-high swing motion.
In transition, you should view your paddle as a shield with your body weight behind it to maintain stability during impact.
Taking purposeful steps and getting grounded between shots is more effective than sprinting blindly toward the net.
Keeping the ball positioned between your legs as you move forward naturally helps keep your paddle out in front of your body.
Key Points:
Shift your focus from making the ball bounce in the kitchen to simply keeping it low and unattackable.
Use a linear, compact swing path—the "racetrack" analogy—to ensure the ball travels consistently toward your target.
Maintain a solid base and lean into your shots with your whole body rather than reaching with just your paddle.
Avoid sprinting toward the net; instead, take one or two controlled steps and split-step before hitting the ball.
Aim to contact the ball when it is between your legs to force a better paddle position and more controlled outcome.
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Happy pickling,
Paul