ACTUALLY LEARN A 6.0+ PICKLEBALL FOREHAND IN UNDER 4 MINTUES

 

Mastering the Flat Forehand in Pickleball
A Step-by-Step Guide with Phuc Huynh and Marcel

Introduction:
The flat forehand technique is a critical foundation for pickleball players who want to improve their consistency, control, and ability to generate power. In this instructional guide, Phuc Huynh and Marcel take you through the essential components of the flat forehand stroke. Whether you're struggling with tempo during warm-ups or maintaining consistency throughout a match, mastering these key points will enhance your overall game. Let's dive in!

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0:00 - Introduction to the Flat Forehand

• Marcel introduces the lesson, focusing on the basic flat forehand technique.
• Emphasis on this drill for players seeking better consistency and tempo.

Summary:
Phuc and Marcel begin the video by explaining the purpose of this drill. It's designed for players who have difficulty maintaining a consistent pace and rhythm with their partner, especially in warm-ups. The flat forehand is a foundational stroke that can set the stage for more advanced techniques later on. This drill teaches players to focus on the essentials of foot positioning, paddle angle, and the use of body rotation to execute a clean, flat shot.

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0:27 - Paddle Tip Down and Foot Alignment

• Focus on keeping the paddle tip down while making contact with the ball.
• Proper foot alignment, facing crosscourt for a consistent shot.

Instructional Highlights:

• Paddle tip should stay low to ensure control over the shot.
• Keep feet oriented toward the target.
• Avoid excessive wrist movement to create a more stable hitting zone.

Summary:
At this stage, Phuc emphasizes the importance of positioning the paddle tip downward as he makes contact with the ball. His feet are aligned towards his target, whether hitting crosscourt or down the line. This focus on minimizing wrist movement helps create a consistent, solid hitting zone, allowing for more control over shot placement. By maintaining this form, the player can reliably hit the ball in a consistent direction without too much wrist action.

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1:08 - Linear Swing Path and Weight Transfer

• Focus on taking a step back with each repetition while keeping the swing linear.
• Ball placement should land just behind the kitchen line.

Instructional Highlights:

• Maintain a straight swing path for more controlled shots.
• Step back with each shot to adjust distance while keeping balance.
• Ball should land behind the kitchen line for better accuracy.

Summary:
Phuc demonstrates the linear nature of the forehand stroke by keeping his paddle movement straight and predictable. With every repetition, he steps back slightly to practice hitting from different distances while maintaining the same level of control. The ball should consistently land just behind the kitchen line, ensuring a balanced stroke that isn’t overly aggressive but controlled and precise.

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1:20 - Open, Semi-Open, and Closed Stance

• Phuc demonstrates three different stances: open, semi-open, and closed.
• Paddle tip remains down in all stances, and the focus is on pushing the ball.

Instructional Highlights:

• Experiment with open, semi-open, and closed stances.
• Paddle tip down regardless of stance for consistency.
• Focus on pushing the ball with minimal wrist action.

Summary:
Marcel guides Phuc through various stances to show how foot positioning affects the flat forehand. Whether using an open, semi-open, or closed stance, the paddle tip remains low, and the player’s primary objective is to push the ball rather than flick it. By keeping the mechanics of the stroke consistent across stances, players can develop a more adaptable, reliable forehand stroke.

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1:45 - Adding Hip Rotation for Power

• Incorporate hip rotation to add power to the forehand stroke.
• Increased pace, but body remains stable and balanced.

Instructional Highlights:

• Turn hips as you drop hands, rotating through the shot.
• Maintain perfect balance while rotating for added power.
• Use 70% of maximum pace for control and consistency.

Summary:
Next, Phuc integrates hip rotation into his stroke, adding another layer of power without sacrificing control. The movement starts with the hips, which then drive the paddle through the shot. By maintaining balance and proper alignment, Phuc can hit a faster, more powerful shot while keeping control over ball placement. The pace here is moderate (about 70%), focusing on smooth execution rather than full force.

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2:21 - Stepping In and Transferring Weight

• Focus on stepping into the shot, transferring weight from back foot to front.
• Contact point is beside the front leg for optimal shot control.

Instructional Highlights:

• Transfer weight smoothly from back foot to front foot.
• Make contact with the ball next to the front leg.
• Ensure rotation helps deliver power through the shot.

Summary:
Here, Phuc demonstrates how to effectively transfer weight from the back foot to the front while executing the flat forehand. By stepping in and making contact near the front leg, players ensure they can put their entire body into the stroke. This weight transfer, coupled with hip rotation, results in a more powerful and accurate shot. This sequence creates a controlled yet powerful flat forehand, useful in both defensive and offensive plays.

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3:06 - 60% Rally Progression

• Final progression: a rally with Marcel at the net and Phuc at the baseline.
• Focus on consistent ball contact and linear swing path.

Instructional Highlights:

• Maintain a consistent rally with 60% pace.
• Focus on linear swing path regardless of ball height or angle.
• Keep tempo steady while moving left or right.

Summary:
In the final drill, Phuc practices a 60% rally, staying on the baseline while Marcel feeds him balls from the net. Phuc focuses on keeping his swing path linear and his contact consistent, no matter where the ball is placed or how high it is. The goal is to maintain a steady tempo while improving reaction time and footwork, ensuring each shot remains controlled and accurate. No Wrist, No Risk.

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Conclusion

The flat forehand technique is an essential skill for pickleball players of all levels. By focusing on the fundamentals, such as keeping the paddle tip down, using a linear swing path, and incorporating weight transfer and hip rotation, players can develop a reliable and powerful forehand stroke. Each progression in this drill builds on the previous one, ensuring that the player’s form remains consistent whether they’re standing still or moving during a rally. With regular practice, these techniques will not only improve consistency but also give players the tools to add pace and precision to their shots.

2024 PPA Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup Tyler Loong vs Phuc Huynh

Resources

• Tanner Tomassi: Mastering the Two-Handed Backhand in Pickleball
• Two-Handed OFFENSE with Pro Zane Navratil
• Google: pickleball forehand drive slow motion
  
• Watch ALW move her feet on this point. She has all the time in the world to place a smooth forehand to win the game

5.0 EXPLAINS: What pickleball drills to do & how to drill

 

Mastering Pickleball: Drilling Techniques for Rapid Improvement

A Comprehensive Guide to Elevate Your Pickleball Game

Are you ready to level up your pickleball game and gain an edge over your opponents? Whether you're tired of losing to players you should beat or simply eager to improve quickly, having a consistent drilling routine can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll discover a step-by-step approach to enhance your skills, inspired by Austin Hardy’s proven techniques. Follow these methods regularly, and you’ll see substantial improvements in a short period. Now, let’s dive into the drills that will take your game to the next level!

1. Drill for One Hour, 3 Days a Week (0:46)
Consistency is key to rapid improvement, and dedicating time to drilling is crucial.

• Set aside three hours a week for practice, broken into one-hour sessions.
• Spread the practice across three different days to keep muscle memory fresh.
• Use each session to focus on a specific area of your game.

By committing to this routine, you’ll maintain momentum and see progress without overwhelming your body or mind. Regular, short bursts of practice will help solidify your skills over time.

2. Pick a Target Area to Focus On (2:17)
Focusing on a single aspect of your game during each session yields better results.

• Choose a target area, such as volleys or backhand shots, before each session.
• Work on improving that skill consistently instead of jumping between various techniques.
• Use drills tailored to your skill level, whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced.

This laser focus ensures you build mastery over time, just like practicing one kick 10,000 times instead of trying multiple new techniques all at once.

3. Spend 5 Minutes Warming Up the Target Area (4:03)
A proper warmup can prevent injuries and improve performance.

• Begin with slow, controlled movements related to your target area.
• If working on volleys, for example, practice gentle volleys to warm up your shoulder muscles.
• Keep the movements light to avoid strain before engaging in more intense drills.

A warmup not only primes your muscles for the session ahead but also prepares your mind to focus on specific movements.

4. Work on the Weakness of Your Target Area for 15 Minutes (4:51)
Addressing your weaknesses is essential for growth.

• Identify the weakest aspect of your target area (e.g., backhand placement, foot positioning).
• Spend 15 minutes focusing solely on this weakness during your session.
• Avoid overworking this area throughout the entire session to maintain a balanced approach.

This dedicated time ensures you gradually turn weaknesses into strengths, making you a more well-rounded player.

5. Do a Drill That Focuses on Your Target Area (6:36)
Once you've warmed up and worked on your weakness, it’s time for focused drills.

• Choose a drill that specifically hones your target area.
• Use resources like the Pickleball Drills App to find appropriate drills for your level.
• Practice the drill for 30 minutes, simulating match-like conditions as closely as possible.

By simulating real-game scenarios, you'll build muscle memory and confidence in your chosen skill area.

6. Spend the Last 10 Minutes Doing Skinny Singles (7:24)
End your session with a dynamic and competitive exercise like skinny singles.

• Skinny singles narrow the court, forcing you to sharpen your precision and control.
• Play against an opponent or use a ball machine to challenge yourself.
• Focus on accuracy and ball placement, practicing both offensive and defensive shots.

Skinny singles is a fun and intense way to wrap up your session, reinforcing the day’s learnings while improving agility.

Guide Summary:
Improving your pickleball game requires a mix of consistent practice, focused drills, and a smart approach to training. By dedicating three hours a week, picking a target area for each session, and utilizing warmups, targeted drills, and skinny singles, you’ll rapidly advance your skills. Follow this guide to make the most out of your practice time and gain an edge on the court. Keep up the routine, and you’ll soon see significant progress in your game!

Time Code List

0:46 Drill for one hour, 3 days a week 2:17 Pick a target area to focus on during every single drilling session 4:03 Spend 5 minutes to warm up the target area 4:51 Work on the weakness of your target area for 15 minutes 6:36 Do a drill that focuses on your target area 7:24 Spend the last 10 minutes of your drilling session doing skinny singles

Summary Article

Mastering Pickleball: How to Elevate Your Game with Strategic Drills

Austin Hardy's Proven Training Routine for Consistent Improvement

In a sport as fast-paced and competitive as pickleball, players often struggle to find a training routine that guarantees consistent improvement. Austin Hardy, a rising name in the sport, has developed a drilling method that is turning heads across the pickleball community. Drawing from personal experience and rooted in discipline, Hardy's training program transforms frustration into success. He emphasizes deliberate practice, focusing on targeted areas to refine technique. For players aiming to climb the ranks, Hardy’s routine offers a clear path to enhancing both skill and strategy, all within just a few hours a week.

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Pickleball is a game that rewards precision, strategy, and, above all, consistency. Many players, frustrated with losing to competitors they feel they should beat, find themselves stuck in a plateau. Austin Hardy, who has successfully competed in 5.0 tournaments, understands that frustration firsthand. His solution? A methodical drilling routine designed to maximize improvement in the shortest time possible. In this article, we break down Hardy’s systematic approach to drilling and how it can transform your pickleball game.

1. Drill for One Hour, Three Days a Week (0:46)
The foundation of Hardy’s routine is a commitment to drilling for one hour, three days a week. Hardy understands that time is a limiting factor for many players, but he emphasizes that just three hours per week—less than 2% of your total time—can make a significant difference. He stresses the importance of consistency, spreading out drilling sessions over the week to build muscle memory effectively.

• Set aside three days a week for dedicated drilling.
• Focus on one-hour sessions for efficient practice without burnout.
• Keep sessions consistent rather than drilling in a marathon session once a week.

This simple yet powerful routine helps maintain steady progress, ensuring that your muscle memory is continuously honed, preventing you from having to "start over" every week.

2. Pick a Target Area to Focus on (2:17)
A hallmark of Hardy’s training philosophy is specificity. Rather than trying to improve everything at once, Hardy advises players to focus on a single aspect of their game each time they drill. Drawing inspiration from Bruce Lee's famous quote about mastering one kick over thousands, Hardy applies the same concept to pickleball. Whether it’s volleys, serves, or backhand rolls, picking one area to focus on leads to faster, more measurable progress.

• Choose one specific skill to refine during each session.
• Narrow your focus to make incremental improvements that add up over time.
• Use the Pickleball Drills app to find targeted drills based on your skill level and area of focus.

This level of focus prevents players from spreading themselves too thin and helps them develop expertise in specific areas.

3. Warm Up the Target Area for 5 Minutes (4:03)
Warming up is not just about preventing injury; it’s about preparing your body and mind for the specific drills you’re about to do. Hardy recommends spending the first five minutes warming up the target area you're focusing on for the day. For example, if you’re working on volleys, start with light volleys to get your shoulder muscles warm and your reflexes tuned.

• Begin with slow, controlled movements in the targeted area.
• Gradually increase intensity to mimic game-like conditions.
• Use this time to mentally focus on what you want to improve.

By easing into the drills, you’re less likely to make mistakes and more likely to sustain a productive session.

4. Work on the Weakness of Your Target Area for 15 Minutes (4:51)
Hardy knows that no one likes to work on their weaknesses, but it’s essential for overall improvement. Spend 15 minutes of your session addressing the weakest aspect of your target area. This might be your backhand in a volley-focused session or your placement on a serve. While uncomfortable, this focus ensures that your overall game improves rather than just reinforcing your strengths.

• Dedicate the middle portion of your drill to your weak spots.
• Keep the intensity high but avoid rushing.
• The goal is to turn weaknesses into strengths through repetition.

By regularly addressing weaknesses, Hardy’s method ensures balanced development.

5. Do a Drill That Focuses on the Target Area (6:36)
Once your warm-up and weakness work are complete, it’s time to dive into more intensive drills. Hardy recommends selecting drills from the Pickleball Drills app that directly focus on your target area. For example, if you’re focusing on volleys, choose a drill that forces you to execute volleys repeatedly under match-like conditions.

• Use drills that simulate real-game scenarios.
• Keep the focus narrow but challenging.
• Aim for consistent execution rather than perfection.

Drills are essential for muscle memory and mental preparation for actual gameplay.

6. Finish with Skinny Singles for 10 Minutes (7:24)
To wrap up each session, Hardy suggests playing a game of skinny singles, a variation that forces players to use only half the court. This drill works on accuracy, control, and footwork, providing a great way to practice under pressure.

• Play skinny singles to sharpen court awareness and positioning.
• Focus on maintaining precision and control in a smaller space.
• This drill is a great way to apply the skills you've honed during the session.

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Conclusion:
Austin Hardy’s pickleball drilling routine is designed for players who want measurable improvement without endless hours of practice. By focusing on one area at a time, drilling consistently, and addressing weaknesses head-on, Hardy's method offers a clear and manageable path to success. Whether you're preparing for a tournament or just want to get better at beating your regular opponents, this routine can help you elevate your pickleball game to the next level.

Pickleball Keeps 95-Year-Old Lois White Young at Heart

 

How Staying Active, Playing Sports, and a Lifetime of Learning Have Kept This Senior Thriving

At 95 years old, Lois White embodies the spirit of resilience, energy, and joy that defies expectations about aging. Twice a week, at New Century Fieldhouse in Gardener, she steps onto the pickleball court, proving that staying active is key to living a full life. Whether it's playing sports, making music, or dancing, White's busy schedule reflects her belief that movement is essential to keeping both body and mind sharp.

Twice a week in Gardener, Kansas, seniors gather to prove that age is just a number. At the heart of the action, Lois White, 95, takes to the pickleball courts with enthusiasm, holding her own against players decades younger. For White, pickleball is not just a sport but part of a lifelong commitment to staying active.

“I’m 95, and I’ll be 96 in January,” White says with a proud smile after another game at New Century Fieldhouse. Despite her age, White plays pickleball every week and remains a formidable opponent on the court.

Fellow players admire White for her agility and determination, noting that there’s little she can’t do. But pickleball is just one of many activities that keep White engaged. “On top of this, I play cards every week,” White shared. “I picked up square dancing. Then, I decided I wanted to play the mandolin, so I bought some books, and now I play and sing. I’m part of the pickers and fiddlers.”

White’s life is filled with activity, learning, and adventure. Married at 17, she and her husband raised six children, and their busy family life pulled her into recreational sports. “We always did what the kids wanted to do,” White recalls. “I’ve played basketball, football—you name it. My husband and I even had a softball team with our daughters for years.”

When White’s husband passed away more than 30 years ago, staying active became her way of coping and remaining sharp. She firmly believes that movement is the secret to her long, fulfilling life. “You need to keep moving; you don’t want to sit around,” White said. “I don’t sit in front of the television during the day.”

Along with being an athlete, Lois White is also a dancer and musician, staying connected to her six children, 20 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Despite her children’s occasional suggestions to take it easy, White remains determined to live life on her terms.

“Yes, I do what I want. I’m very stubborn,” White admits with a laugh.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, Lois White is out on the pickleball court, continuing to inspire those around her with her zest for life and unwavering spirit.

Summary:
Lois White, at 95 years old, is an inspiring example of how staying active can lead to a long and fulfilling life. Playing pickleball twice a week at New Century Fieldhouse in Gardener, Kansas, she competes with players of all ages, proving that age is no barrier to fitness or fun. White’s involvement in recreational sports began early as a mother of six, participating in basketball, football, and softball. After losing her husband, she continued to stay busy with various activities, including square dancing and playing the mandolin.

White’s philosophy is simple: keep moving. She believes that remaining physically and mentally active has been key to her sharpness and vitality. In addition to her athletic pursuits, she keeps up with her extensive family of 20 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Though her children sometimes suggest she slow down, White’s stubborn determination keeps her on the go, enjoying life to the fullest. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and an active lifestyle, age truly is just a number.