Pickleball is full of unique shots and the third shot drop is one of them. This shot is aimed into the first seven feet of the opponent’s side of the net, also known as the kitchen. It is a challenging yet highly rewarding shot.
Grip
The grip is one of the most important parts of the shot. It should be a loose grip on a scale from one to five, with one meaning you’re not holding it and five being a death grip. The ideal grip is a one-and-a-half in pressure. The continental grip is used for both the forehand and backhand. It is also known as the shake-hands grip.
Motion
The motion of the shot should be low to high, coming from the shoulder. It is a push shot rather that a big swinging shot. It is important to decelerate the ball or slow it down. This will result in the ball’s flight or arc going up on your side, and then descending into the kitchen giving you the advantage as you come forward toward the net.
Baseline
The most difficult area on the court to hit the third shot drop is from the baseline. It is important to slow the ball down and make sure it is descending into the kitchen. If you can hit the third shot drop from all positions on the court, you will have mastered this challenging shot.
Result
The result of the shot should be that your opponent hits up and you get to hit down. This will give you the advantage and help you win the point.
“The most difficult area on the court to hit the third shot drop is from the baseline.”
With these easy tips, you will be able to master the third shot drop in no time. So, don’t wait any longer and watch the video to learn how to hit the third shot drop in pickleball. Have fun as you practice this shot. It will pay big dividends in your pickleball game.
Watch Carrie Z
Demonstrate how to hit the third shot drop in this YouTube video from the Z Sisters Pickleball Channel.
