5 Drills Every Intermediate Pickleball Player Should Be Doing

If you’re an intermediate pickleball player, now is the time to go beyond the basics and sharpen your game with purposeful, skill-building drills. Whether you're looking to improve consistency, boost your reaction time, or dominate the kitchen line, the right exercises can make all the difference. Below are five essential drills that can elevate your game and keep you progressing with confidence.

1. Cross-Court Dinking Drill

Why It Matters: Builds consistency, precision, and patience at the kitchen line.
How to Do It:

• Partner up and stand diagonally from each other in the non-volley zone.

• Engage in a cross-court dinking rally.

• Focus on soft, controlled shots that test angle and placement.

• Maintain the rally for several minutes, improving your endurance and accuracy.

2. Transition Zone Drill

Why It Matters: Develops control and confidence when moving from baseline to the net.
How to Do It:

• Begin at the baseline while your partner stays at the kitchen line.

• Your partner feeds short balls into the transition zone.

• Work on hitting soft drop shots while advancing forward.

• Reset after each shot and repeat, honing your movement and control.

3. Serve and Return Drill

Why It Matters: Sharpens your ability to start points with authority and consistency.
How to Do It:

• Serve deep and aim for specific zones.

• Your partner returns the serve targeting your baseline.

• Focus on footwork and return placement.

• Swap roles every 10 serves and track your accuracy.

4. Reflex Volley Drill

Why It Matters: Improves reaction time, control, and hand-eye coordination at the net.
How to Do It:

• Stand at the kitchen line facing your partner.

• Engage in fast-paced volley rallies.

• Keep the ball low and consistent.

• Continue for 1–2 minute intervals with brief rests in between.

5. Footwork Agility Ladder Drill

Why It Matters: Enhances agility, balance, and speed – all crucial for dynamic play.
How to Do It:

• Use an agility ladder or mark spaces on the ground.

• Practise lateral, forward, and backward footwork patterns.

• Incorporate paddle movements like shadow dinks or volleys.

• Perform multiple sets, increasing tempo and precision over time.

Final Thoughts

Improving at pickleball isn’t just about playing more—it’s about training smarter. By consistently practising these five drills, you’ll notice improvements in your technique, movement, and overall confidence on the court.

🎾 Want to upgrade your gear while you level up your skills?
Explore top-rated paddles, balls, bags, and more, curated especially for intermediate players at Pickleballmonger Shop.

👉 Shop now and take your game to the next level with premium equipment designed to perform!