Senior Pickleball Tips

Susan Cohen is back and this time talks to Paddy about the importance of warming-up BEFORE playing pickleball and stretching-down AFTER playing. They discuss actual exercises you can do for both - even in your car on the way to playing (don't worry what other drivers think!) and after you get home. Just 5mins before playing and then 7-8 mins after, will make ALL the difference to you maintaining your body. Which will keep you injury-free - there is nothing worse (especially as a senior) than pulling a muscle or straining a tendon somewhere that keeps you off the court for 5-6 weeks. Arghhhh!!  Listen to Susan, she has been helping people for over 26 years - she knows what she's talking about!! https://ptwithsusan.com/ https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

Tony Schneider has been the president of USSP for some 18 months and he chats to Paddy about how he got into the sport and his plans for the organisation. Tony describes USSP, its aims and its mission. Also listen to how he learnt the reset shot (the hard way!), what's in Paddy's coffee mug, the importance of partner communication and hear the two of them debate whether a little bit of 'nastiness' is possibly coming into the sport. If you're a senior, you play pickleball and you live in the US - you need to listen to this episode. AND you need to join USSP (see the link below) for only $20, which you can recoup by simply entering two or their seniors' tournaments (sounds good eh?). But, actually, even if you live elsewhere in the world - there is a good chance that USSP is coming to you soon!   Join USSP here: https://usseniorpickleball.com/about/ Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about

Paddy was in Malaysia a couple of months ago - and as always - when he travels he always has his trusty Friday pickleball paddle. Finding himself in Penang, Paddy hunted down some open play and joined in the fun. But what amazed him the most was the quality and dedication of the players. Malaysians have badminton and table tennis in their DNA - so pickleball is natural to them.  So, Malaysia has taken to the sport instantly and spontaneously! Its been in the country for only seven years and it has taken off big time - and much of this was due to seniors introducing pickleball into their own communities - and it grew from there. Paddy meets up with Tommy Tan, a senior player, in Penang - and after playing, they talk about the phenomenal growth of pickleball in Malaysia (and Paddy asks him a cheeky question out of the blue!). Check out our new (free) Academy: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

This is the Story of one of our members - William Clelland - who dragged himself out of the Glasgow drug dens with the help of this amazing sport. Listen to his story of drink, trouble with the law, prison, heroin and deep dispair. Until one day, it all changed for him. Be patient with his strong Scots accent - don't worry, after 5 mins you'll get used to it!  This is in total contrast to our episode a fortnight ago - when we met Lee Whitwell, the world #1 senior - but that is what Senior Pickleball Tips as all about.  Pickleball is about PEOPLE - and William is one of those people - just like you and me. UPDATE - a month after this was recorded William won his first tournament against 23 others in an Americano tournament (what ever that is!). From heroin addiction to winning pickleball tournaments - what a guy! Check out our new Academy: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about Check out our 140,000-strong Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/315147621275194

Wow! What a 50th episode we have for you! Paddy chats to Lee Whitwell, the world No.1 Female 50+ pickleball player, US Next Gen coach, businesswoman and all-round bloody amazing person. They discuss her early introduction into tennis then pickleball (in Gibraltar and England), what advantages are there to being a leftie, misogeny in the pickleverse (actually not that bad!), her book "The Third Space Effect: How Pickleball Became the Place We Belong" and her philosophy about the sport.  Also we are SO lucky - because Paddy manages to get some seriously valuable tips for the 10 Essential Shots including... "I don't believe in hitting winners, I believe in setting up points" Lee shares a joke and a funny story (she likes to make people laugh), then describes her work founding GameChangeHER Events which helps all players but especially focuses on women 40+ and why she feels the community side of things is much more important than the pro tour, the medals and the cups. But she should know - she's done both! So listen to them chatting away and you might just take away a gem of advice or an incredible tip that will make a difference to your game.   Find Lee's book here : https://www.amazon.co.uk/3rd-Space-Effect-Pickleball-Became/dp/B0GJ75B5Y8   Go to Game ChangeHER Events here : https://www.gamechangeherevents.com/   Be one of the first to join our new Senior Pickleball Academy here : https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about

Wow! What a 50th episode we have for you! Paddy chats to Lee Whitwell, the world No.1 Female 50+ pickleball player, US Next Gen coach, businesswoman and all-round bloody amazing person. They discuss her early introduction into tennis then pickleball (in Gibraltar and England), what advantages are there to being a leftie, misogeny in the pickleverse (actually not that bad!), her book "The Third Space Effect: How Pickleball Became the Place We Belong" and her philosophy about the sport.  Also we are SO lucky - because Paddy manages to get some seriously valuable tips for the 10 Essential Shots including... "I don't believe in hitting winners, I believe in setting up points" Lee shares a joke and a funny story (she likes to make people laugh), then describes her work founding GameChangeHER Events which helps all players but especially focuses on women 40+ and why she feels the community side of things is much more important than the pro tour, the medals and the cups. But she should know - she's done both! So listen to them chatting away and you might just take away a gem of advice or an incredible tip that will make a difference to your game.   Find Lee's book here :  https://www.amazon.in/3rd-Space-Effect-Pickleball-Became/dp/B0GJ75B5Y8 Go to Game ChangeHER Events here : https://www.gamechangeherevents.com/   Be one of the first to join our new Senior Pickleball Academy here : https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457  

Okay, okay I know - this is OVER AN HOUR LONG!!!!! BUT - we've moved to high-intermediates (3.5) so there's more to to talk about. More ways to hit these essential shots. So many potential serves - which should I do? Do I do a 3rd shot drop or a 5th shot drop? What can I do if my backhand drive isn't as good as it should be? Is it good to 'Shake & Bake'? How do I prepare properly for a re-set shot? What do I need to do to try and get to 4.0? I was going to cut this into 2 or 3 episodes - but decided to keep it as one to avoid muddling it with the 10 essential shots for other ratings. So maybe listen to it in sections. Or, if you have that 'seniors'' patience - just go for the whole hour!! But, if you're a high-intermediate (like me) - you NEED TO LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE.    Check out Coach Jeff at his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@limitlesspickleball   Here is the ultimate guide to the 10 essential shots for intermediate senior pickleballers - for you to print out and keep: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lou9bvyp8mopsgr0si0mm/SUMMARY_PDF_10-SHOT.pdf?rlkey=wlola530lwa5m8sd0g11kig93&dl=0

Okay, okay - yes, this is a full 45 minutes! Yes, it's long. But this episode is FULL OF AMAZING INSIGHTS AND TIPS for low-intermediate players (at around 3.0). Maybe listen to it in 2 or 3 stages - but listen to it you must! Coach Jeff (Limitless Pickleball) & Paddy go through the ten basic shots and what you should be doing at the 3.0 level. The serve, return, third shot, forehand & backhand drives, lob, dink, smash and the (all important) reset shot. They discuss each shot in some detail - what to do and what NOT to do! But don't worry it's not super-serious, they also have a bit of fun along the way! Hear Jeff's 'pearls of wisdom' and learn how Paddy deals with each shot (he has just gone up to the dizzy heights of being a high-intermediate player with a DUPR of 3.6 !). If you're at about the 3.0 level - this episode will certainly help you improve your pickleball. Check out Coach Jeff at Limitless Pickleball here https://limitlesspickleball.com/ Check us out here seniorpickleballtips.com    

Karen Mitchell is an absolute star in regard to pickleball in England, and indeed throughout the UK. After starting to play the sport (beware putting your bins out in sleepy Sussex villages!!) she saw the need, together with Frank Arico, to organise pickleball in the country. So they started Pickleball England in 2018 to promote the sport, organised a tournament (with about 320 players) and, as they say, the rest is history. The last English Open (largest tournament outside North America) had 2,350 players - with senior categories in 5-year cohorts from 60+ upwards (Paddy played in the 65+ category in all three events). Hear how the sport is growing in the UK - thanks partly to Karen's efforts - and her views on global growth of the sport. Karen and her colleagues had their greatest victory when they won the right to be the National Governing Body - beating the (English) Lawn Tennis Association in that contest (yes that's right, the folks who organise Wimbledon every year and have millions £££££ !!!) - by putting together a petition of pickleball players (yes, Paddy did sign it!).  Learn about Karen's own pickleball story and about the army of volunteers who are the life-blood of the sport in the UK - including her husband Chris - who work tirelessly behind the scenes. If you live in the UK - PLEASE JOIN YOUR NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY (no cost) - it is important that together we support our pickleball and have a strong voice over the sport. Join Pickleball England here   https://www.pickleballengland.org/individual-membership/ If you live in Scotland join here   https://pickleballscotland.org/ If you live in Wales join here https://www.pickleballwales.org/ If you live in Ireland (incl NI) join here https://pickleballireland.ie/   Check out our website here https://www.seniorpickleballtips.com  

If you're an advanced beginner (2.5) this is 38 minutes of pure gold. You're probably thinking "Whaaaat? THIRTY EIGHT minutes???" ... then remember you are a senior and (unlike many of our younger generation) you have the patience to do this...!!! Paddy and Coach Jeff (Limitless Pickleball) take advanced beginners through the 10 essential shots they need to know about - from the serve, return, third shot, through to the forehand and backhand drives, and then the dick, lob, smash and the (all important) re-set shot. All from the perspective of the Advanced Beginner. We know this is a long episode (and we did consider splitting it into two parts) but listen at your leisure - maybe in two or three goes. But listen to it you must ... to improve your game and enable you to have MORE fun. Coach Jeff goes through each shot with Paddy steering the conversation - but they have some fun along the way too!!!   Check out Jeff's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@limitlesspickleball For more tips and advice check out seniorpickleballtips.com

This is the episode for all beginners - especially those who are new to the sport. Paddy & Coach Jeff Gehm (Limitless Pickleball) systematically go through each of the 10 essential shots in pickleball, aimed specifically for new beginners. Starting with the serve, return of serve and the third shot, then moving on to the forehand and backhand drives, then the dink, the lob and the smash and ending with the tricky re-set shot. It's all here in one episode! So grab the dog for 'walkies' or maybe listen on your way to play - this will give new beginners the confidence to just give it a go! Oh - and we have a bit of fun along the way!   For Jeff's YouTube videos click here: https://www.youtube.com/@limitlesspickleball For more tips and support click here: seniorpickleballtips.com For a Beginners Guide click here: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/2f1f5a4d23      

In this episode Paddy meets Karen Thomas from Seattle, who came to the sport 10 years ago (through her mother!), was the head of marketing at Pickleball Central for some time and is now the Marketing Director at US Senior Pickleball.  They chat about everything pickleball - including the growth of indoor facilities in the States, the costs of membership and playing, the continual growth still of seniors playing the sport and the importance of spreading the message to as many seniors as possible to consider pickleball as part of their own on-going health and wellbeing. Paddy even mentions his pickle-related coffee mug! Karen explains what USSP is all about and what members can get for only $20/year (see notes below for more details) and her call-out for more USSP Ambassadors to spread the word - if you're interested contact Karen direct at USSP. So if you know of any seniors wanting a great new activity to make sure they 'use it, not lose it' - then get them to contact USSP https://seniorpickleballtips.com https://usseniorpickleball.com/     A US Senior Pickleball (USSP) membership costs $20 per year. USSP is a non-profit organization focused on providing affordable tournaments and a dedicated circuit for senior pickleball players.    Membership Benefits As a member of the US Senior Pickleball organization, you gain access to a dedicated community and specific benefits tailored for senior players: Affordable Tournaments: Access to low-cost tournaments designed specifically for age and skill groups within the senior demographic. Dedicated Circuit: Participation in a national circuit of events for seniors who want to compete. Community Focus: The organization is run by seniors for seniors, ensuring the events and structure meet the needs of its members.    How to Join To become a member and support the largest senior circuit, you will need to register via the official website. You can find information on joining the organization and registering for events on the US Senior Pickleball official website. https://usseniorpickleball.com/  The membership is a great way to stay active, compete, and connect with other senior pickleball enthusiasts

In this last episode in the 'Singles Series', Paddy goes through the importance of having a 'mental edge' - having those steely nerves when the chips are down. The importance of the mental side of singles matchplay cannot be overemphasised. It is SO important. If you can become mentally strong in singles (and doubles!), you can win more competitative matches and maybe even tournaments as well. Most pickleball players are not mentally strong and this will definitely give you that 'edge'. Paddy explains techniques to help get mentally stronger - like breathing techniques and tricks to avoid distractions - everything YOU need to get better, win more competitative matches and enjoy your poickleball even more (AND win tournaments!!). So, if you're into singles, this is a must-listen podcast. https://seniorpickleballtips.com  

In part 3 of this 4-part series, Paddy explores the arsenal of shots that you need to focus on to win at singles. Surprisingly you don't need a whole aray of different fancy shots - but you do need some of the basics and you need to get them right technically. And you need to know when to play them. Serve, return, volley, 3rd/5th shot, lob, smash, re-set - all the usual suspects are there - but for singles it's about placement (even more so than for doubles!). Paddy goes through each one and explains their importance in the singles game - especially from a seniors' point of view! https://seniorpickleballtips.com

In the second part of this 4-part series, Paddy explains why the return of serve is (in his opinion) THE most important shot in singles pickleball - especially if you're a senior. He goes through all the options for the return of serve, including what to do and what NOT to do!  Then Paddy talks about court positioning and the importance of predicting where your opponent's shot is going to go - and how to do this. He explains how, as seniors, we do NOT have to running around like complete idiots - how we use our experience of sport and life to enable us to be in the right place at the right time. Throughout the episode Paddy tells us about breathing techniques, using the timeout and gives all kinds of hints and tips to help YOU win on the singles court. https://seniorpickleballtips.com

How on earth did they do it? How did they get to the 3.5 (65+) English Open final? The largest pickleball tournament outside USA! And did they win? Listen to this episode and find out! And also discover how they both helped each other through it, how they communicated and how they changed tactics suddenly when they needed to. Go through their trials and triumphs on that day last summer. You might learn something. You might take something away that helps YOU in your next tournament - or just to improve your game. https://SeniorPickleballTips.com

In this episode we meet Gustavo Alonso Gonzalez who was (un)lucky enough to be paired up with Paddy for the English Open 2025 3.5, 65+ doubles tournament. Having never met each other, they met one minute before their first match!!! Bearing in mind that the English Open is the largest tournament outside USA, this is quite a big deal! In this two-part podcast describing their journey in that tournament, we first meet Gustavo and get to know him a bit. He is the founder of Senior European Pickleball Players, plays as many tournaments as he can, is a qualified tournament referee and is basically all-round, bloody excellent bloke! In the second episode they go through the matches in the tournament, the mistakes they made, how they got on as partners, how they helped each other in every match and how they (somehow) got through to the final... ...and that is when you discover if they got the gold or not.....!!!   Find Senior European Pickleball Players Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/169839999456871   Join our membership here: https://seniorpickleballtips.com  

Paddy starts his deep dive into pickleball singles. This is the first of four episodes to help YOU not just compete in singles, but to WIN in singles. Many seniors shy away from singles, but for many of us we love the independence of doing things for ourselves and the friendly competition with other similar 'singletons'. There is no doubt that singles attracts the more competitative player, so these episodes focus on strategy, tactics and especially the mental aspects of the game in regard to playing in competitions (for example, breathing techniques, how to avoid distratctions etc.). Paddy draws on his own experiences winning national gold and international bronze singles medals (for his age group). Doubles players would also gain from listening to these as well. In this first episode, Paddy argues againt the notion that 'singles is not for seniors' and explains why. Then he starts the ball rolling on the importance of the serve and why it's different from doubles, including the importance of the willingness to take risks as, generally speaking, consistency may not be enough to get to singles' knockout stages. Note: This podcast is part of the course on Singles Play. For this, and many other courses, check out: www.seniorpickleballtips.com

Paddy has found a segment from his interview with Coach John Gill (aka Aussie John Pickleball) where they talk about keeping safe from injuries and mishaps on the pickleball court. They discuss the main things like court shoes and eye protection, about what to do and (maybe more importantly) what NOT to do! You may feel you've heard this all before - but it is well worth a recap, to keep you on the court and playing. We've all witnessed on-court injuries and we know that they are 90% preventable - so listen up and keep yourself active and playing. https://www.youtube.com/@AussieJohnG www.seniorpickleballtips.com

Please find in this episode, 8 minutes of mindfullness and calm - to listen to before you go on court. Whether you're going to play for a bit of fun with your pickle friends or about to play in a major tournament - you may find it useful to have this 8-minute moment of peace, to help you focus your mind. Keep it with you wherever you go - play it in the car, walking to the courts or just before you warm up - you never know when you're going to need it! https://SeniorPickleballTips.com

In this podcast Paddy chats to Steve Willis who is not only fanatical about pickleball, but is also highly involved with US Senior Pickleball. Discover Steve's story as he goes from swimming to pickleball, gets addicted (like a lot of us!) and what he does when he realises that he wants to put something back into the sport. USSP supports the development of pickleball for seniors throughout the United States - listen to what they can do for you... https://usseniorpickleball.com/ https://seniorpickleballtips.com

In this episode Paddy talks through how to transition from tennis to pickleball. Although there are MANY advantages such as an understanding of footwork and court positioning, there are also disadvantages such as going for the sidelines and too big a backswing.  Listen to Paddy as he goes through all this, while giving examples from his own transition - after playing tennis for 50+ years.  So if you've come from tennis, this is a must-listen.   Check out our website: www.seniorpickleballtips.com   Join thre waitlist for a 30% discount on the membership website: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this episode Paddy talks to his doubles partner, good friend and pickleball coach Phil about partner communications. They have entered a 50+, 3.5 tournament together for the first time and discuss how they are going to communicate with each other before playing, during play and afterwards.  The tournament is in two weeks' time, so it's important they 'get their act together'! Partner communication is not just about calling 'Mine' or 'Yours' (although these are incredibly important), it's also about keeping each other's spirits high, NEVER being negative (not until after the game anyway!) and being crystal clear in what you communicate and how you communicate it. They also talk about communicating with partners in competitative round robins - whom you may never have met before, as well as partner communication in informal, rec play. So give it a listen - your partners will thank you for it!   Also, please check out our website... www.seniorpickleballtips.com   Website launches in August, click here to join the waitlist and get discounted membership https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this episode Paddy talks with Ron Ponder who is the Director of Officiating at the Global Pickleball Federation and all-round great guy. They talk about how he got into pickleball and then got into refereeing while helping with DUPR and expanding the sport into the far reaches of this planet. For example, how Ron got to officiate in Madagascar's first national tournament after explaining to about a dozen enthusiastic players how to play! Ron is very knowledgable about pickleball and shares some of that knowledge with us.  He discusses issues such as refereeing and how to get into it, why pickleball is so popular around the world, it's phenomenal growth in Asia and the inevitable topic of needing ONE international body to get our sport into the Olympics. But don't think that this is a boring interview - Ron is an engaging and erudite guest, willing to share his colourful pickleball journey with us, and we are privileged to be a part of it. https://globalpickleballfederation.org http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Click here for 30% discount on membership price: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

Remaining with the important theme of listening to our bodies, Paddy talks to Bill Reif about his book 'Treat Your Own Pickleball Injuries' out with Amazon. With 45+ years experience of being a physical therapist, he started playing pickleball five years ago and found himself looking after more and more pickleball players. So, on retiring, he wrote this very useful book. Listen to Paddy and Bill discussing the particular injuries that come from pickleball's 'side-to-side' movements and what to do about them. More good stuff about preventing those injuries from happening in the first place, but also what to do when they (inevitably) arrive! Bill has worked with the Olympics, Special Olympics and even in Hollywood - so he knows what he's talking about. Also, if you're not from Britain, discover what a 'niggle' is! [IMPORTANT NOTE: If injuries or pain persists ALWAYS go and see your doctor/physician] Order the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Treat-Pickleball-Injuries-Step-Step/dp/B0F8P2DV49 Check out our website here: http://seniorpickleballtips.com Get a 30% discount on membership here: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In the second part of this episode Paddy and Susan (from Pro Motion Fitness) discuss the importance of having some kind of a daily routine to stretch our muscles and tendons and to help us gain some physical strength. This can help all of us with our pickleball game (and our lives in general!). A 10- or 15-minute routine is good (or even longer if you can bare it!), but at least a 5-10 minute stretch is highly advisable. Whether it is yoga, pilates or the Canadian Air Force exercise regime (yes, there is one - my dear mum used to do it every morning!), just about any kind of movement can only help. And we'll learn how you can even incorporate the exercises your phyiso gave you into your own bespoke routine (why not eh?).  We'll also learn about how good it is for us to (wait for it....) stand on one leg! So give this episode a listen - and remember to S-T-R-E-T-C-H.......! Check out Pro Motion Fitness here: https://ptwithsusan.com/about/ http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Save 30% on membership here: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this two-part episode Paddy talks to Susan Cohen from Pro Motion Fitness about keeping injury-free. Part one will cover the five most common pickleball injuries that occur with seniors and in part two they discuss about how all of us should have our own bespoke, personal daily routine so we can stretch and strengthen our muscles for 10-15 minutes every day. So, in this part-one episode Susan goes through the five most common injuries that affect our: Shoulders Elbows Lower Back Knees Ankles & Calves And for each of these she and Paddy discuss what we need to do to keep us from injuring these parts of our bodies. (Paddy is used as a sort-of guinea pig as he relates the problems he always has with lower back pain and cramping in his calves). So give it a listen and this episode may well be the best thing you do this week/month/year!! Check out Pro Motion Fitness here: https://ptwithsusan.com/about/ http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Get a 30% discount on membership here: https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this episode Paddy continues with his story about winning a gold medal in the English National Singles Championships (3.0, 65+). Listen to how he played against a 'giant' at 6'8" and then very much hoped that he didn't come across Nigel again (who beat him in the round-robin). And, you've guessed it, of course he did! Paddy explains what worked for him in this tournament - both his game strategy and how he kept strong mentally. At the end he summarises with some pointers that could help YOU in tournament play (or indeed any kind of pickleball play). Also - listen out for the Labrador puppy! http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Get a 30% discount on membership here (but be quick): https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this episode Paddy talks through his experience of how (for some crazy reason) he managed to win an English National Singles Championships title (3.0,  65+). He talks through his preparation, his game strategy and his mental strength (basically how he kept his sh*t together!).  He talks through the six games he had to play in the round-robin to get to the semi-finals - what he did right and what he did wrong. Why and how he changed his tactics mid-game sometimes, what he did between points and how he kept motivated. Paddy never says that everyone has to do what he does - he just shares his highs and lows, his tactics and decisions - in case the listener may be able to take away a few good pointers. He hopes that he doesn't come across as 'braggy' - just someone sharing their story. He ends by summarising his strategies and tactics, which he hopes may be helpful for others. In Part Two he continues this story into the semi-finals and final. Hear how he VERY nearly went home early (how he got lucky), but somehow hung on and managed to get that gold medal! So watch this space! http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Get 30% discount on membership here (but be quick): https://senior-pickleball-tips.kit.com/63394dc96f

In this episode Sleeves (from Senior Pickleball Report) talks about his role in the Netflix pickleball film 'Dreambreaker'.  Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story is a humorous look into the serious business of our country's fastest-growing sport and the celebrities, billionaires, and everyday folks scrambling to get in on the action. Interesting watch! Then Paddy and Sleeves 'shoot the breeze' about a whole heap of things, including the continuing growth of the sport, its Olympic ambitions and even how the third shot drop is fading from the game.  Join them for a fascinating conversation as these 'two old blokes get together and just talk pickleball'  !!   Dreambreaker film details: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32307345/ Senior Pickleball Report (with Sleeves) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH7VF6BggKDKw8iR_ald18w Senior Pickleball Tips new website  http://seniorpickleballtips.com  

This is probably the MOST DIFFICULT SHOT IN PICKLEBALL and also the most important. Paddy talks through the techniques and strategies for the Re-Set Shot - what to do, how to do it & when to do it.  He stresses just how vital it is to be able to undertake this shot. He even says that if you want to improve to 3.5 and certainly to 4.0 and beyond YOU MUST HAVE THE RE-SET SHOT IN YOUR ARSENAL. Although the power game is becoming more popular - the soft game with re-sets and dinks will ALWAYS have a central place in the sport. Paddy is later joined by Coach Jeff Gehm where he again shares his gems (sorry about that pun Jeff!!!) - this time on (what could be) the most important shot for YOU to master. Listen carefully and make the re-set shot a central plank in YOUR game!!! Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about

In this episode Paddy goes through the techniques and strategy needed to make the most of your backhand drive. This can be a weak shot for many of us seniors - so listen to how you can improve YOUR backhand drive and be confident with, what can be a tricky shot.  He also touches on whether to have a single- or double-backhand and the advantages and disadvantages of both. There's even a mention of the 'cut' backhand and when to use it and not use it. So learn about how to improve on this difficult shot and to have the confidence to use it in YOUR game. Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

We give over this episode to a review of the Facebook group by the Deep Dive Podcast. It was first broadcast in April 2024 and here is another chance to listen to it again.  But it is VERY IMPORTANT to make sure you listen to Paddy's endpiece - this helps to make the whole episode make sense! By the way, be sure to take a look at our upcoming website. Sign up onto the waitlist for a great discount! www.seniorpickleballtips.com

With coach Jeff Gehm, Paddy goes through the ten basic shots one at a time, and for each one they discuss the MOST VALUABLE TIP for that shot. There is a LOT in this espisode worth listening to (sorry we went over our 30 min limit - but only just!). Check out... Serve Return of Serve 3rd Shot Drop or Drive? 5th Shot Drop Forehand Drive Backhand Drive Dink Lob Smash Re-Set Shot (Told you there's a LOT here!) For each shot, Jeff brings his expertise of coaching to describe the MOST IMPORTANT TIP for that shot and Paddy 'chews the breeze' with him. In this structured debate they both talk serious pickleball, but also have a lot of FUN in front of their microphones. Somehow they even mention golfers and mathematicians! Take away 10 things to improve YOUR game, to help you find those silky skills and be the envy of all your pickleball friends! https://SeniorPickleballTips.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxbbyF9OWhQnLVJuRRpKdjA    

In this episode Paddy is in Bangkok and Manila! Every year he escapes the UK winter and this year it was to Thailand and the Philippines – to relax on beaches and go wreck diving! So, of course, he also played pickleball at every opportunity. Paddy looks at the phenomenal growth of pickleball (especially for seniors) in South East Asia and particularly in Thailand, the Philippines and Singapore. While playing in Bangkok he meets and interviews a senior Thai coach and a bunch of very friendly Singaporeans. On his visit to the Philippines, he again meets a senior coach in Manila and they talk about the rise of the sport in the country. Paddy then explains about why pickleball is gaining so much popularity among seniors in Vietnam, Cambodia, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore and how government incentives have increased the rates of play among seniors and also the general population. So, all you Americans, Canadians and Europeans beware - pickleball is very well-suited to badminton- and tabletennis-playing Asians who are quick and well-adapted to this sport and who could (in a few years' time) compete very keenly for the top spots. www.SeniorPickleballTips.com    

In this episode Paddy explains why dinking has been made for seniors! Why we have the patience to really make the most of this vital part of our 'soft game'. He goes through techniques and tips to help you develop your dink to overcome powerful (and probably younger!) opponents. Paddy talks about the grip, the stance and positioning, how to gently stroke the ball over the net together with a lot of tips about where to dink to and when, how to remain patient and how to use the dink as an offensive as well as a defensive shot. As seniors we have a great advantage over others younger than us with this shot - so we have to make the most of it! Join the new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

We all watch YouTube videos about how to perfect the most powerful forehand drive or the best spin serve that will bamboozle your opponent, or maybe how to put more topspin on your backhand or how to 'stack' more efficiently. BUT, above all these things is ONE overarching and more important aspect to pickleball - how to improve our risk-reward balance by simply being MORE CONSISTENT. No matter your rating - whether you are a total beginner or earn over $1 million a year on the pro circuit - CONSISTENCY IS KEY - especially for seniors. Paddy starts the episode by saying that this could be the most important pocast episode you need to hear to improve YOUR pickleball game. He explains the fundamentals of consistency and why it is SO important and then, gives YOU simple ways YOU can (pretty much immediately) win more points and games. The shots to undertake and (probably more important) the ones to leave out! Paddy suggests you consider investing 13 minutes of your time - why not? https://SeniorPickleballTips.com  

In this episode Paddy explains the importance of the forehand drive - which is probably your most used shot. Therefore, maybe your most important shot? So it's good to spend some time looking at the forehand drive and getting it right. What's the right stance? What kind of backswing should you have? How important is footwork? When and how should you use it in your doubles strategy? Nowadays, players at the 4.0+ level are using the forehand drive more and more (and less so, the third/re-set shot). Why are they doing this and is this something we should be bringing into our game? Paddy says, "Yes, you could, but probably not." So listen in to this episode - it could just hold the key to improving your game. Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

In this episode Paddy chats to Steve Schoeffler who is an entrepreneur, inventor and pickleball addict.  He describes how he fell into pickleball from tennis (like a LOT of us!) and soon got fed up of picking up pickleballs! He realised, as he played more and more pickleball, that this was a REAL problem with seniors playing the sport and set out to do something about it. Follow Steve's journey as he tries out various methods, finally found that solution he was looking for and called it 'Pickle Putty'.  The product has just come on the market and people seem to love it as the first batch of product sold very quickly. Paddy explains his own independant review of it - which is (obviously) very favourable (as he wouldn't be having a whole episode on it!). Paddy, like a lot of us, has a bad back and this stuff makes ALL the difference. So check out Pickle Putty for yourself. Go to... https://pickleputty.com AND use Paddy's discount code to get 15% off your first order - PADDY15   http://seniorpickleballtips.com                                                                

Paddy asks his picklefriend Sleeves (from the Senior Pickleball Report) about what makes a good paddle for a beginner. They discuss the ins and outs of various different types of paddles - what they're made of, how they're made, what to choose for power or precision or a combination of both, how much to pay, 14mm or 16mm and everything else about beginners' paddles. Paddy then summarizes and names the Top 5 Beginners' Paddles for 2024 - by brand and actual paddle, with one of two recommendations. So, if you're a beginner and are looking for a half-decent, inexpensive paddle to kick-off with (or a beginner who is using a 'piece of wood'), then this is the episode for you....!! Why don't you join our Facebook group (if you're not already a member)? https://https://www.facebook.com/groups/315147621275194/ Or even check out our website at https://SeniorPickleballTips.com  

The smash can be both powerful and beautiful, all at the same time. If it's done properly, it will bring HUGE benefits to your game. But be careful - if it's not well executed, you can lose a lot of points. In this episode Paddy goes through it all, explaining how to smash well, when to smash, where to aim and how (as seniors!) NOT to get injured.  Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

Just thinking about and imlementing some basic strategy, can make a BIG difference to your game. Being in the right place at the right time with the right shot and in tune with your partner WILL improve your results HUGELY. Paddy describes 10 basic strategies -step-by-step.  He goes through everything from the importance of communication to moving together side-by-side, from your choice of shots during certain situations to staying calm when the chips are down - all the basic strategies you'll need to improve your game. Whether you are a beginner, novice or an intermediate player - you will be able to bring these strategies onto court straightaway. So what are you waiting for? Check out our fledgling, beta website and be a part of our wonderful 100,000+-strong community. http://SeniorPickleballTips.com    

The lob is a great shot if you can do it well. In this episode Paddy goes through the techniques, tactics and strategies for this most annoying of shots! You love it when you perform it well - and hate it when it's done against you! But, love it or hate it, you have to have it in your arsenal.  Whether it's lobbing from midcourt, from the back of the court or when dinking - the lob doesn't just win you points, but gets under the skin of your opponents - giving you a psychological advantage at times.  But don't lob too much, it can be your undoing! Paddy goes through it all, including pointing the finger at THAT player that lobs weaker opponents ALL the time in recreational play and drives everyone mad.....!! Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about  

This could be the most important eposide you ever listen to. It could save you weeks or even months away from the court recovering from injuries. In this episode Paddy talks again to John Gill (President, World Pickleball Assoc.) and their conversation turns to keeping injury-free, especially for us seniors. What to do and not to do about running backwards for a high lob, about just wearing open frames of glasses to protect your eyes, about wearing running shoes, about stretching and other essential things YOU need to know. Don't ignore this episode - 12 minutes of ESSENTIAL safety advice. This episode is sponsored by BlueCut safety eyewear. https://bluecutglasses.com http://seniorpickleballtips.com

Kevin has won three US National Championships and has been coaching tennis and pickleball for the last 30 years. A popular pickleball YouTube coach, with a gentle but reassuring style, he has worked with the whole spectrum of players from total beginners right up to professionals. What should you do when you feel like 25 but your body reminds you that you're 64? Kevin has the answer!  Listen to Kevin and Paddy discuss the 'seniors' scene' and where they see seniors pickleball going in the next ten years or so.  http://seniorpickleballtips.com  

Do you wear eye protection when playing pickleball? 1:200 pickleball players get an eye injury at some time - and this could be YOU! Today is the first World Pickleball Eye Protection Day and we are talking about it with Joan Ploem Miller who is a senior optometrist. This lady knows what she's talking about and she's a pickleball addict (so she's one of us!). Joan has seen more than her fair share of eye injuries - some incredibly serious. Now we don't want to scare people into not playing this amazing sport - but we all need to be aware of the risks of eye injury and to know how easy it is to prevent. Taking the lenses out of a pair of glasses and wearing the frames does not protect you that well. So learn what to do and what not to do, regarding eye protection, from one of the best. http://seniorpickleballtips.com   Podcast episode sponsor - BlueCut sports glasses https://bluecutglasses.com

How do you play the volley in pickleball? When is the best time to 'stab' the ball or even drop it? Should the backhand dominate the volleying? What grip is best and how firmly do you grip your paddle for each kind of volley? Paddy deals with a whole 'volley' of these question (Ouch! Sorry....!) in his usual fun but informative way. With a special guest appearance from coach Kevin Beeson, you're not going to want to miss this episode which could help to make you the 'Volley King or Queen' of your group!! Join the new (free) Academy here : https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about

The third shot drop is known as the most difficult shot in the game and is something we ALL need to master. As seniors it gives us more time to get to the kitchen line, but it is indeed very 'tickyfult' to get right. And also nowadays more and more people are driving the third shot, not dropping it at all!! So what are we to do??? Paddy talks you through it all in his informal, fun way (he even sings a bit - so mind your ears!) and answers that important question "Shall I drop or shall I drive now......?" He explains when to drop and when to drive and goes through techniques and tips along the way. Join our new (free) Academy here: https://www.skool.com/senior-pickleball-academy-9457/about

Thinking of starting to play senior pickleball? Or have friends aged 50+ who you think would really love it and will benefit from the sport? Then this episode is for you. Paddy simply goes through all the reasons why pickleball is such a good pastime for seniors - for those who have a history of playing sport and for those who don't. Plus a few tips at the end of what you need to think about when you first step onto a pickleball court. http://seniorpickleballtips.com

Paddy chats with John Gill, an Aussie, who is working hard to see the sport at the Olympics for the first time in Brisbane in 2032. President of the World Pickleball Association and a well-know coach in his own right (check out 'Aussie John Pickleball'), John spends his time between USA and Australia spreading the word. Paddy and John share some Antipodean banter along the way, but you should be able to understand most of it! Meet this great Aussie doing some wonderful things for the sport. http://seniorpickleballtips.com