Are you stuck trying to climb the pickleball ranks and reach that coveted 4.0 rating? You’re not alone! Many players struggle to bridge the gap between intermediate and advanced levels, but the good news is, small adjustments can make a big difference.

In this post, we’ll explore the three key mistakes that might be holding you back—and share actionable tips to help you overcome them. These insights are taken straight from our latest video, where we break each concept down with real-game demonstrations. If you’re ready to level up your game, keep reading (and don’t miss the link to Part 1 of the video below).


The 3 Mistakes Keeping You from 4.0

  1. Hitting Hard at the Wrong Time
    It’s tempting to swing for the fences, but power without precision can cost you points. Many players struggle to control their aggression, often hitting hard when a soft, strategic shot would be more effective. Fix It: Learn to recognize the right moments to dial back power and focus on placement instead. Mastering shot selection is key to smarter gameplay.
  2. Not Giving Ground During Hands Battles
    Hands battles at the net can be fast and intense, but standing too close can lead to missed opportunities and errors. If you’re not creating enough space, you might be losing critical exchanges. Fix It: Practice stepping back slightly during hands battles. This allows you more time to react and return shots with better control.
  3. Inconsistent Footwork
    Footwork is the foundation of every great pickleball player’s game. Without proper positioning, even the best paddle technique won’t save you. Fix It: Focus on staying light on your feet, maintaining balance, and positioning yourself optimally for each shot. Consistent footwork leads to better control and fewer unforced errors.

Watch the Full Video for In-Depth Analysis

Ready to see these tips in action? Watch Part 1 of our video, where Jeff and Angela demonstrate each mistake and show you how to correct it in real gameplay situations.

🎥 [Watch the Video Now!]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdJ9TdGvovY

This video is packed with practical advice to help you:

  • Play smarter and more strategically.
  • Avoid unforced errors.
  • Build habits that bring you closer to a 4.0 rating.

And don’t forget—this is just the beginning! Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover even more mistakes and solutions to help you reach your pickleball goals.