Review these NIP Tips to help you improve your game.

 

1. Pickleball is about patience and placement. Placement is more important than power. Make ¾ of your shots down the middle; don’t go for the sideline shots that cause errors.
2. Call the shots – partner communication is key –Yours! Mine! I got it! Watch it!
3. Only 1 in 4 points is earned from good playing technique. The other 3 points are earned by errors of hitting the ball out, hitting the net, missing the ball, failure to communicate with your partner, improper position on the court, improper choice of stroke selection, etc.
4. Hit the ball at your opponents’ feet, they are less likely to return it. If your opponent likes to hang out in “No Man’s Land”, make sure to hit the ball to their feet. This is a very difficult shot to return, even for the best players.
5. Play at the No Volley Zone line; don’t hang out in “No Man’s Land” or the baseline. A good volley player will usually beat a good groundstroke player.
6. Develop robust consistent serves –develop more than one type. You only earn points when you are serving, so don’t give the points away with a missed serve.
7. Returning the serve - wait for the serve at least twelve inches behind the baseline. You want the ball to bounce in front of you, not at your side. It is easier, and safer, to run forwards, rather than backwards.
8. Don’t give up on a rally – too often players will give up on a rally part way through it. If you miss your shot, many times your partner will pick up the slack. Don’t give up on a rally until the ball is dead.

 

Here's some information on how much liquid you should intake to stay properly hydrated. Hydration is important while exercising, especially when it is hot outside.

Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is vital to keeping your body temperature and electrolyte level balanced. When dehydrated, you can become fatigued, experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, heat illness and heat stroke. (1)

Water is generally the best way to replace lost fluid, unless you're exercising for more than 60 minutes. In that case, sip a sports drink to help maintain your electrolyte balance and give you a bit more energy from the carbohydrates in it. The sodium in sports drinks also helps you rehydrate more quickly. (2)