Pickleball Tips - 4.0 To Pro, A Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast

Hey everyone! In this episode of 402p, we dive into a bit of a grab bag with my co-host, Scott Fliegelman. We kick things off with some fun banter and listener engagement, share some exciting personal stories, and then jump into a detailed discussion about evolving pickleball strategies (I talk about a crazy backhand "shield" shot I saw on court ) and techniques. Plus, we answer some questions from our listeners. Tune in for tips on improving reflex speed, dealing with short drops, and mastering the high topspin serve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we give a few bullets on how to make the jump from 3.5 to 4.0. (Stay tuned for more detailed show notes) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We covered dinking on the last episode, now we get into the fun part! Talking the who, what, when, why, and how to attack (instigate) from the kitchen, and how to defend ourselves against those attacks. Get your own "Diego" training dummy to put on the court. (along with your spinshot ball machine, it's a great combo!) https://amzn.to/3lFQO7S CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we answer listener questions about difficult shot execution, verbal cues on the court, and changing grip mid point. Then, how to make the jump from 3.5 to 4.0. Finally, what's the best drill to do when you only have a couple minutes and you want the most bang for your buck? 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings 00:23 Episode Theme and Guest Introduction 02:41 Listener Questions and Expert Advice 07:25 Communication Strategies in Pickleball 14:46 Visualization Techniques for Better Play 19:35 Improving from 3.5 to 4.0 Skill Level 26:21 Grip Adjustments and Paddle Positioning 30:52 Bang for the Buck Drill Sessions 35:21 Conclusion and Call to Action Jack Munro Drill Sesh: https://youtu.be/9RAwrigvra8?si=6Lsu9X8f5UoHbnpA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's show we are stepping into the kitchen and talking dinking. How should we dink? What are our targets? How can we set ourselves up for success in the kitchen with some strategic dinks? What techniques do the pros use? All of this and more in this ep! CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we delve into the nuances of playing pickleball with a referee present. We talk about the additional pressure and dynamics a referee brings to a game. Topics covered include the significance of making prompt and proper outcalls, protocols around serve routines, and foot faults, as well as the importance of establishing a rapport with the referee. Practical advice is given on how to handle incorrect scores and the procedures for challenging line calls. Whether you're moving up the ranks or just looking to refine your game, this episode is packed with advice to help you play your best when there’s a ref on the court. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:20 Discussing the APP NYC Event 00:56 The Role of Referees in Professional Pickleball 02:56 Strategies for Playing with a Referee 03:58 Pre-Match Decisions and Strategies 05:00 Warm-Up and Match Preparation 11:24 Handling Line Calls and Disputes 13:03 Serving Rules and Protocols 17:18 Foot Faults and Common Referee Calls 20:08 Stacking and Positioning Clarifications 21:31 Out Calls and Replay Rules 27:44 Advanced Referee Rules and Tips 28:26 Conclusion and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

**NOTE: Since this episode has published, the Gen 3 paddles from Gearbox, Joola, and others have hit the market. So, much of what we talked about can be extrapolated to these new paddles. Pickleball Paddle technology has taken huge leaps and bounds in the last 3 years or so. Shots that were previously impossible are now commonplace due to the gritty carbon fiber surfaces that higher end paddles come with. So, how do pros choose their paddles? How do they set them up? What does lead tape do, and where should we put it? All of this and more in this episode. CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we delve into the critical importance of your FEET in pickleball. We kick off with a shoutout to Michael from Jilly Bee's (Jill Braverman) podcast and celebrate their show ranking #23 globally in trending new shows. They emphasize the need for appropriate footwear, the intricacies of footwork for different shots, and drills to improve stability and efficiency on the court. Michael shares his unique warm-up routine involving jump ropes to keep his lower body agile and strong, while Scott recommends a neuro ball for foot health. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your game or simply avoid injuries, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you take care of your most important pickleball asset – your feet! 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Shoutouts 01:58 The Importance of Footwork in Pickleball 04:46 Choosing the Right Footwear 07:13 Footwork Techniques and Drills 14:46 Advanced Strategies: Split Steps and Shot Selection 26:23 Strengthening Your Feet for Pickleball 28:55 Conclusion and Final Tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Senior Pro Scott Fliegelman (@boulderpickleball) and 4-point-something Michael O'Neal (@solohour) talk about how to get better at pickleball every time you play. We talk about what to do when you're solo, what to do with three players, how to choose a coach, great drills, and how to play above and below your current level. CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Michael shares his experience from the APP tournament at Flushing Meadows in New York City. Michael recounts playing in various events, including the Humana Cup and senior pro singles and doubles, reflecting on his growth and strategy adjustments, including (spoiler alert) his first senior pro win! The episode also covers drills like the instigator drill, the importance of adapting playing styles, and advice on finding the right paddle, including feedback on the Selkirk Labs 006. Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences and questions for future episodes. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro: The Pickleball Podcast 00:09 Recording Under Unique Circumstances 00:52 Recapping the APP Event in New York City 01:27 Tournament Experiences and Strategies 04:17 The Transition from Semi-Pro to Pro 06:15 Q&A: Adapting to Your Partner's Play Style 11:21 Drills and Techniques for Improving Your Game 20:24 Exploring Paddle Options and Strategies 24:27 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of '4.0 to Pro' delves into the often-overlooked aspect of pickleball - off-ball movement. Hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman discuss the importance of movement when not in direct play, sharing insights from their experiences and coaching. They cover strategies like poaching, baiting, and fake switching to disrupt opponents and gain an advantage. The episode also highlights the significance of understanding your position and the opponent's likely moves, enabling players to make anticipatory moves. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro 00:07 Recap of Recent Pickleball Events and Personal Updates 01:21 10% off of CRBN Paddles by using (402p) at checkout. 01:36 Diving Deep into Off Ball Movement in Pickleball 03:37 The Art of the Poach: Strategies and Stories 09:50 Understanding Off Ball Movement: Pro Tips and Tactics 18:25 The Shake and Broil Strategy Explained 19:57 Super Secret Pro Tip: Faking the Switch 22:35 Closing Thoughts and Call for Reviews Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(Replay Episode 4) Today we are chatting serve return! There are a few techniques we can learn to give us a huge advantage in our serve game...and a few of them start before you even step on the court or begin your game. CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we talk serves! There are multiple things to consider when serving in Pickleball. Alignment, location, serve choice, and much more. In this episode we learn how the pros serve and what they consider before every point. CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman discuss the evolving strategy of the FIFTH shot drive in pickleball, moving away from traditional play, towards more aggressive tactics facilitated by advancements in paddle technology. They explore how these changes are affecting the game, including how to effectively use and defend against powerful drives. The discussion also covers the impact of new paddle technologies, like the Gen 3 paddles, contributing to harder hits with less effort and more spin, significantly changing gameplay strategies. Furthermore, they touch on personal experiences and techniques to adapt to and counter this emerging play style, emphasizing the need for recalibration in response to the evolution of pickleball equipment and tactics. The episode also includes a mention of a community support initiative for a fellow player diagnosed with cancer, illustrating the close-knit nature of the pickleball community. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro: The Pickleball Podcast 00:36 Shoutout to Montis Pickleball & Personal Updates 01:29 Supporting a Friend in Need: Brent YY's Battle 02:19 Observations from the Court: The Evolution of Pickleball 05:29 The Impact of New Paddle Technology on the Game 07:19 Mastering and Defending Against the New Power Drive 13:57 Defensive Strategies Against High-Power Shots 23:45 Concluding Thoughts and a Call to Action Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a replay of episode 2 for those that may have missed it! Have a listen to refresh your 3rds! Today we are talking 3rd shots! There used to be 1 choice for our 3rd shots....the traditional drop! Because of paddle technology and the evolution of the game, we now have at least 4 options on how to handle our 3rd. Have you mastered all 4? CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're exploring something we've noticed about Colin Johns and Andrei Daescu's pickleball game. Their drops are WAY higher and flatter than most 4.0 to Pro's. Today we talk the in's and out's of that particular shot, and how you can integrate it with limited penalty and a LOT of upside! Hey, why not grab a t-shirt at http://makeemhit.com? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

REPLAY: In this inaugural episode of 4.02P, Michael and Scott cover the basics of overall good pickleball strategy, including return of serve, serving, 3rd shots, and getting to the NVZ (otherwise known as the kitchen!) Please subscribe on whatever podcast platform you prefer, submit any pickleball questions at http://picklehelp.com and follow us on http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro. CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off. Spin Shot Ball Machines The most technically advanced pickleball machine on the market! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week we did right side...today it's left! This episode of the '4.0 to Pro' pickleball podcast, hosted by Michael O' Neal and Scott Fliegelman, delves into strategies and techniques for playing on the left side of the pickleball court. After covering right side play in a previous episode, they switch focus to the left side, discussing responsibilities, shot selection, and partner dynamics. The hosts emphasize the importance of consistent backhand dinks, footwork, and off-ball movement to create pressure and opportunities for points. They also discuss fitness and cross-training to enhance game performance. The episode includes discussions on specific shots like the instigator shot, shake and bake, and introducing the concept of shake and broil for advanced teamwork on the court. The conversation wraps up with advice on improving partner communication and the effectiveness of being more vocal during games. 00:00 Welcome to the Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast! 00:26 Diving Into Left Side Play Strategies 01:10 Promo Codes and Pickleball Apparel Chat 03:22 Evolution of Pickleball and Player Dynamics 07:18 Deep Dive: Left Side Player's Role and Techniques 22:23 Advanced Strategies and Partner Dynamics 27:30 Wrapping Up and Next Steps Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we chat about Scott Fliegelman's experiences at the U.S. Open in Naples and the NPL draft list announcement, where Fliegelman was the number one pick for the Denver Iconics. Then we discuss various aspects of right-side play, including pre-match alignments, defensive strategies, understanding the 'respect the X' concept, and effectively using the court's dimensions to one's advantage. The episode also provides advice on returning serves, dealing with shake and bake strategies, and the importance of communication and roles clarification between partners. Additionally, the episode touches on upcoming events, personal achievements, and observations from pro matches, illustrating the evolving nature of pickleball tactics at different levels of play. 00:00 Welcome to the Pocket Size Pickleball Podcast! 00:09 Recapping the U.S. Open Experience 01:28 Pickleball Drafts and Upcoming Events 03:13 The Right Side Player: Roles and Strategies 04:49 Advanced Pickleball Techniques and Observations 06:38 Right Side Player Dynamics and Game Plan 31:24 Closing Thoughts and Future Strategies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we talk about coach Scott Fliegelman's experiences and anticipation for the U.S. Open in Naples, Florida, his role as a color commentator for the Split Age Mixed Pro event, and his strategy and hopes for moving up from a bronze medalist position. Michael and Scott discuss the impact of paddle power on the game, sharing insights on selecting paddles for competitive play and the transition to more powerful paddles. They stress the importance of communication in doubles, emphasizing the need to call shots and work as a team to reduce confusion. The episode also covers the effectiveness of wall drills for improving volley games and reactions. Listener questions are addressed throughout, focusing on partner selection, stacking tactics for maximizing strengths, and strategies for poaching shots in doubles play. 00:00 Welcome to the 4.0 to Pro Podcast! 00:11 Scott's Adventures at the U.S. Open 00:35 Color Commentary and Tournament Insights 02:00 Evolving Game: Then and Now 03:34 Listener Q&A: Partner Selection and Gameplay Strategy 12:17 Powerful Paddles: Game Changer or Not? 18:15 Managing Emotions on the Court 21:32 Wall Drills and Improving Your Game Solo 24:48 Effective Communication in Doubles Play 28:54 Poaching Strategy in Doubles 30:47 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices