Mastering the Drop and Reset Shots in Pickleball: Essential Tips and Training Methods

🎯The ability to hit a drop shot and reset shot is a key differentiator between high-level and low-level pickleball players.

⚡️Advanced players spend the most time training the drop and reset shots as they are challenging but highly effective.

🏓The drop shot is used to land the ball in the kitchen with a slow arc, keeping it short and low over the net.

🔄The reset shot is used when under attack to hit a slow, arcing shot that crosses the net low and keeps the player in a defensive position.

🎾Training the drop and reset shots requires practicing different ball speeds, spins, and footwork from various court positions.

Why are the drop and reset shots important in pickleball?

—The drop shot and reset shot are crucial in pickleball as they allow players to maintain control and precision, control the pace of the game, and keep opponents off balance.

Can I train the drop and reset shots without a ball machine?

—While a ball machine like the Slinger bag offers efficient and controlled training for the drop and reset shots, you can also practice with a partner using similar techniques.

Do I need to use different spins when training these shots?

—Yes, it's important to train with different spins, including topspin and underspin, to prepare for various types of shots you may encounter in a game.

Should I focus more on the drop or the reset shot?

—Both shots are equally important. The drop shot allows you to control and set up the point, while the reset shot helps you recover defensively and maintain control during an opponent's attack.

How can I improve my footwork and positioning for these shots?

—Practicing footwork drills and positioning yourself correctly on the court will help you execute the drop and reset shots more effectively. Work on your agility and positioning during practice sessions.

00:00In this YouTube video, Nicole Havu introduces the importance of the drop and reset shots in pickleball for advanced players.

02:23Nicole explains that high-level players excel at hitting drop and reset shots due to their skill and control.

04:45The drop shot is a key skill used when facing opponents who have advanced to the net. It involves dropping the ball into the kitchen with a slow, arcing shape.

07:00The reset shot is a defensive shot used when under attack. It is hit with a slow arc, crossing the net low and keeping the player in a defensive position.

08:45Nicole provides tips for training the drop shot using a ball machine like the Slinger bag, starting from the baseline and gradually moving back.

10:55To improve drop shot precision, Nicole suggests training with different ball spins and practicing from various court positions.

13:15Nicole explains how to train the reset shot using a ball machine, focusing on footwork and positioning to handle fast shots.

15:20She recommends adjusting ball machine settings to simulate different shot scenarios, including spin and speed variations.