Key takeaways:
Elevate your game with essential skills like mastering the dink shot, improving footwork, and developing a strong serve for a competitive edge on the pickleball court.
Effective communication with your partner and mental resilience are crucial for success. Sync up strategies and build unshakeable poise to outperform your opponents.
Comprehensive training, including physical fitness and the right equipment, is key to achieving your pickleball goals. Explore PB5star gear designed to enhance performance.
That first time a serve lands exactly where it’s supposed to, and your footwork matches the pace of play, you know you’ve reached a new level. Intermediate pickleball is where fun meets focus. The basics are second nature now, which means it’s time to grow your game with smarter strategy, quicker reactions, and more court control.
To keep improving, players need the right blend of consistent training, sharp mental habits, and solid gear. Whether you're aiming to excel in local tournaments or simply want to bring more excitement to your recreational matches, having the right mindset and gear makes all the difference. At PB5star, we want to be part of your success story; visit us to discover performance wear that matches your growing skillset.
Tip #1: Master the dink shot
Let’s start with one of the most underrated yet strategic shots in the game. The dink shot isn’t just about soft contact—it’s a smart move to control the pace and push your opponent out of position. A good dink can reset a point, create pressure, and set up winning opportunities.
Here’s how to make it part of your arsenal:
Stand at the kitchen line and practice soft, low shots that bounce just inside your opponent’s kitchen.
Alternate between cross-court and straight dinks to keep your opponent guessing.
Focus on paddle face angle and steady hand movement.
Well-balanced paddles make it easier to feel the ball and keep control during tight exchanges. If you’re serious about upping your touch game, using a paddle designed for finesse can be a game-changer.
Tip #2: Enhance your footwork
Once you've mastered soft shots, it's time to focus on how you move to set them up. Footwork is often the hidden force behind great play. The faster and more efficiently you move, the better you position yourself for each shot. Whether it’s a backhand drop or covering a lob, staying balanced and ready is essential.
Here are some footwork drills and habits to build a better movement:
Command the court with a power-ready stance - Plant your feet shoulder-width apart, knees flexed, and body weight forward on our responsive PB5 Court2 shoes that keep you connected to every surface.
Perfect the bounce-ready position (also known as the split-step) - Imagine you're dancing on hot coals as your opponent hits, keeping you light and ready to pounce in any direction.
Replace running with smooth side shuffles - Glide across the court like you're on rails, always facing forward and prepared for those lightning-fast exchanges.
Master the freestyle flow with crossover steps for those wide shots - Picture a figure skater's grace combined with a boxer's agility.
Practice these patterns daily with the "Four Corners" drill - Place water bottles in each court corner and practice reaching them using different footwork combinations, spending just 10 minutes before each game.
Tip #3: Develop a strong serve
Good footwork helps with shot execution, but the point starts with a strong serve. It’s your chance to dictate pace and force opponents out of their comfort zones.
Key ways to strengthen your serve:
Start by focusing on a smooth, consistent service motion paired with a controlled toss. Rushing through the motion or overthinking your swing can lead to faults and missed opportunities. Practice makes your serve more repeatable and less prone to breakdown under pressure.
Try mixing up your placements to keep opponents guessing—go deep to the baseline to push them back, drop one short near the sidelines, or add some angle to catch them off guard. This variety makes your serve unpredictable and harder to return.
Whenever possible, aim for your opponent’s backhand side. Most players are weaker on that wing, and it cuts down on their ability to return with power or precision. A well-placed serve can earn you a weak return—or even a free point.
Pro tip: Investing in the right paddle can make all the difference in your serve. The PB5star Control Paddle features a carbon face that improves spin and accuracy, perfect for making your serve a threat every time.
Tip #4: Improve your mental game
With solid mechanics in place, the next edge comes from your headspace. Mental strength, especially in high-pressure situations, can give you the edge when your mechanics are already solid. Pickleball is often won between the ears. When rallies are long or the score is close, staying mentally locked in can turn the tide in your favor. Learning to stay calm and make good decisions under pressure is a skill you can build.
Sharpen your mental toughness by:
Using breathing exercises to stay grounded. Inhale four counts, hold, then exhale.
Visualizing success before matches or between points.
Building routines like paddle taps or grip checks to reset and refocus.
Confidence comes from consistency. Over time, these habits become part of your mental toolkit.
Tip #5: Communicate effectively with your partner
When you and your partner sync up on the court, magic happens. Playing doubles is all about that perfect rhythm between teammates, and great communication makes it click.
Rock our vibrant apparel for men and women to spot your partner instantly during fast-paced rallies. Our matching team collections help you stay connected and look amazing together.
Start each game strong with a quick strategy huddle. Call out your preferred shots and positions - simple calls like "mine" or "switch" keep everyone moving as one unit.
Get creative with subtle hand signals for serving strategies and court positions. A quick behind-the-back gesture between points gives your team the upper hand while keeping opponents guessing.
Jump on your partner's calls right away - quick reactions show you're in tune with each other. Teams who hesitate often lose points, so trust those calls and move with confidence.
Build your connection off the court. Chat about what worked after matches, swap tips over coffee, or join our PB5star community events. The strongest partnerships grow both on and off the court.
Syncing up with your partner builds trust and flow. It’s not just about the game. It’s about how you play it together.
Tip #6: Utilize the third shot drop
The third shot drop puts you in control of the point from the start. When executed well, this precise shot creates the perfect transition from baseline to net, turning defense into offense. Landing a soft, well-placed ball in your opponent's kitchen disrupts their rhythm and sets you up for success.
Many intermediate players struggle with finding the right touch, hitting too hard or failing to clear the net. The magic happens when you focus on the proper technique: position your body sideways, keep your paddle face slightly open, and guide the ball with a smooth, controlled motion. This shot shines particularly when your opponents are ready at the net with strong volleys. By dropping the ball short, you neutralize their attacking position.
Tip #7: Stay fit and healthy
Ready to take your pickleball performance to new heights? Physical fitness powers those amazing shots and quick reactions that make the game exciting. When you combine smart training with our performance-ready gear, you'll feel the difference in every match.
Build strength through regular training sessions, focusing on core and leg exercises that give your serves extra pop—consider wearing our moisture-wicking tops to keep you comfortable while you work.
Mix quick footwork drills into your pre-game routine, practicing side-to-side movements and direction changes in our grip-optimized court shoes.
Balance intense play with proper rest periods to support muscle recovery between matches.
Power your game with smart nutrition choices. Pack nutritious snacks in our sports bags for sustained energy throughout tournament days.
Keep water close at hand during practice and play.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about pickleball
Ready to make waves on the court? These questions pop up often in our clubhouse conversations, and we're here to share the wisdom of players who've been right where you are.
How do I pick a paddle that matches my style?
Your paddle is like your signature move on the court. It should reflect your playing personality. Check out our complete guide to paddle types. They're designed specifically for players ready to add both power and finesse to their game.
What's the secret to staying cool under pressure?
Think of each point as its own mini-adventure rather than getting caught up in the score. Create your own pre-serve ritual. Many of our players take a deep breath and tap their paddle twice before serving to reset their focus.
How can my partner and I level up our game together?
Dynamic duos shine when they've got their signals down pat. Start with simple hand signals behind the back for serve positions, then work up to coordinated court coverage.
What habits should I break to step up my game?
Many players rush their reset shots when the heat is on. Take that extra split second to set up your shots. The pros always say, "smooth is fast." Remember to stay light on your feet and keep that paddle up between points.
Your next level awaits
Ready to step onto the court with more confidence, control, and power? The right combination of practice, precision, and preparation can make all the difference as you level up your pickleball game. Whether you’re focusing on your serve, sharpening your drop shot, or improving your movement, each part of your routine adds to your competitive edge.
Shop smart and train with purpose; your next big win is waiting. Check out Pb5star’s collection of footwear and gear to elevate your game.
