Tips
Feb 11, 2025
Ready to add some serious sizzle to your pickleball game? Let's dive into two of the most exciting shots that can transform you from a predictable player into a court maestro - the lob and the drop shot! These shots aren't just fun to execute; they're game-changers that can keep your opponents guessing and help you control the tempo of every rally.
The Magic of the Lob
Think of the lob as your "escape artist" shot - it's perfect for when you're pinned at the kitchen line with aggressive opponents breathing down your neck! But here's the exciting part: a well-executed lob isn't just defensive; it's a sneaky-good offensive weapon too.
When to Unleash the Lob
Your opponents are crowding the kitchen line, practically daring you to hit it over their heads
You notice your opponents getting a bit lazy about backing up after their shots
You're feeling pressured and need to buy time to reset your position
You spot one player significantly closer to the net than their partner
Pro Tips for Perfect Lobs
"The key to a great lob is disguise," says a professional pickleball player and instructor. "Make it look exactly like your dink setup until the last possible moment!" Here's how to make it work:
Keep your paddle face open and contact point in front
Use your legs to generate power - it's not all in the arms
Aim for a spot about 2-3 feet from the baseline
Add just a touch of backspin to make the ball harder to track
(Photo Source: https://www.pickleheads.com/guides/pickleball-lob)
Drop Shots: Your Secret Weapon
The drop shot is like serving your opponent a slice of humble pie - especially when they're hanging back expecting a power drive! This shot is all about finesse and can absolutely destroy your opponent's rhythm.
Perfect Times for Drop Shots
When opponents are positioned deep in the court
After you've hit a few hard drives and they're expecting another
During fast-paced exchanges to change the tempo
When you want to force opponents to move forward quickly
Making Your Drops Deadly
A professional player shares: "The best drop shots look exactly like a drive until they softly fall over the net. It's all about selling the fake!" Here's your game plan:
Start with a normal drive motion
Soften your grip at the last second
Focus on control rather than power
Keep the ball as close to the net as possible
(Photo Source: https://pickleland.com/what-is-drop-shot-in-pickleball/)
Combining Lobs and Drops: The Ultimate Strategy
Here's where things get really fun! By mixing these shots effectively, you create what top players call a "three-dimensional game." Your opponents won't just have to move side to side - they'll be scrambling forward and backward too!
"The beauty of combining lobs and drops is that each shot makes the other more effective," explains a pickleball champion and strategist. "Once your opponents respect your lob, your drop shots become more dangerous, and vice versa."
Practice Makes Perfect
Start incorporating these shots into your practice sessions gradually. Try this fun drill:
Have your practice partner stand at the kitchen line
Alternate between lobs and drops (5 of each)
Focus on placement rather than power
Keep track of your success rate and try to improve it each session
(Photo Source: https://thirdshotblog.com/how-to-hit-a-drop-in-pickleball/)
Remember, both shots require touch and feel that only comes with practice. Don't get discouraged if they're not perfect right away - even the pros had to start somewhere!
The magic of pickleball lies in its strategic depth, and mastering lobs and drops will take your game to new heights - literally and figuratively! So get out there, practice these shots, and watch your opponents' faces when you start mixing up your game with these crafty techniques. Your pickleball journey is about to get a whole lot more exciting!
Have fun, stay patient with yourself, and remember: the best shot in pickleball is often the one your opponent least expects. Now get out there and start adding these weapons to your arsenal!
