Mastering Pickleball: Leigh Waters' Top Drills for Amateur Players

Enhancing Consistency, Developing Weapons, and Sharpening Reflexes

Leigh Waters, renowned pickleball coach and mother of world No. 1 player Anna Leigh Waters, emphasizes the significance of structured practice for players at all levels. In a recent interview on the "Talk Pickle To Me" podcast, she shared her favorite drills tailored for amateur players aiming to elevate their game. These drills focus on building consistency, developing offensive "weapons," and enhancing hand speed to keep pace with the sport's evolving dynamics. (Watch Segment)

Building Consistency Through Monotonous Drills

Waters underscores the importance of consistency drills, acknowledging their repetitive nature but highlighting their role in mental fortitude and pressure management. One such drill involves dinking—gently hitting the ball back and forth over the net—from various positions on the court. The objective is to achieve a set number of consecutive successful shots, such as 100, with each player's errors resetting their personal count. This exercise not only enhances shot reliability but also simulates match pressure, requiring players to maintain focus and composure.

Developing Personalized Offensive Weapons

According to Waters, possessing a unique offensive "weapon" is crucial for success in pickleball. Whether it's a formidable speed-up, a strategic counter, or a precise third shot drop, players should identify and cultivate their strengths. Regularly practicing these signature moves ensures they remain sharp and effective during matches. Waters advises continuous refinement of these skills, emphasizing that even well-developed techniques can diminish without consistent practice. (Pickleball Prodigy, Pickleball Study)

Enhancing Hand Speed for the Modern Game

With advancements in paddle technology and the increasing pace of play, Waters highlights the necessity of quick reflexes. To improve hand speed, she recommends drills such as:

Wall Drills: Practicing volleys against a wall to develop rapid responses and control.Pickleball Study
Partnered Speed-ups: Engaging with a partner who delivers fast-paced shots, challenging the player to react swiftly and accurately.

These exercises are designed to acclimate players to high-speed exchanges, a common scenario in contemporary pickleball matches.

Summary

Leigh Waters' insights provide amateur pickleball players with a structured approach to skill development. By incorporating consistency drills, focusing on personalized offensive strategies, and enhancing hand speed through targeted exercises, players can build a solid foundation and adapt to the sport's dynamic nature. Regular practice of these drills not only improves technical abilities but also prepares players mentally for the pressures of competitive play.

Resources