Pickleball: 9 tips to keep you safe

Safety on the pickleball court is crucial for all ages. Check out this list of ways to avoid injuries that I found on Facebook and is courtesy of the Quincy Park District.

These are nine great tips. The part about pivoting and not backpedaling to run down a lob is really critical.

● Never shuffle back or backpedal if lobbed. Just say nice shot.

There is too great of a risk of falling and suffering a broken wrist, arm or head injury. The same is true if running forward too quickly.

So please know and accept your limitations and do not try to make plays beyond your capability. No point is worth such an injury.

If a lob (ball) goes over your partner, you may be able to safely pivot and run in an athletic manner. Bottom line, be safe.

● Wear proper shoes designed for court sports and lateral movement.

● Make sure court shoes are dry and free of dirt. Tracking water and sand onto a court makes the court dangerous for everyone.

● Avoid playing on wet courts as they can be very slippery and dangerous

●Use eye protection. This is highly recommended for all players.

● Stay hydrated. Symptoms of dehydration may include dizziness, weakness, headaches and dark yellow urine. Drink before you are thirsty.

● Call “ball” or “ball on court” whenever a stray ball enters a court to prevent others from injury.

● Avoid getting hit by balls, paddles and people and be courteous by not walking into or behind another court while the ball is in play.

● Avoid slip, trip and fall hazards by removing any loose debris on the court prior to playing.

Coach Mary’s Tip of the Week

Transitioning to the net is the topic this week. Sara Ansboury shares a quick mini lesson drill to work on getting from the baseline to the NVZ (kitchen). This is a drill, not a demo for how to play a point.

Here is the link to the video: https://shorturl.at/ceZ28

● Do not fear the transition zone, or “No Man’s Land”. Embrace it and learn how to move slowly through it.

● It is a mistake to return the ball, then rush to the net.

● “Decelerate so that you can accelerate.” This creates less impact on your body and gives you more control.

● Move with your paddle out in front of you.

● It is not the destination; it is the journey. Move slowly and keep the ball slow and soft (third shot drop.)

● Try not to think about a “split step”, but rather a pause to make contact. Practice walking through the shot, rather than step and hit.

● Elongation. Slow and out in front will save your joints.