Dinking Demystified: The Key to Consistency in Pickleball

Find Your Perfect Dinking Style

Dinking is one of the most critical skills in pickleball, yet its technique is often misunderstood. Should you only use your shoulder? Lock your wrist? Keep your elbow stiff? The truth is, no one-size-fits-all solution exists, but understanding the role of different body hinges can help you master this essential skill. By isolating movements from the shoulder, elbow, wrist, waist, and knees, players can discover what works best for their unique style and make their shots more precise and repeatable.

Understanding Body Hinges in Dinking

Each hinge in your body serves a purpose in dinking, but knowing when to use or avoid them is key. For example, bending at the knees allows you to lower your paddle’s height without affecting its angle, making it ideal for low balls. Conversely, hinging at the waist often disrupts paddle control and should be avoided. For upper-body movements, locking the wrist and elbow while relying on the shoulder creates a stable foundation for controlled dinks. However, top-spin shots might require elbow movement, while advanced players may add subtle wrist action for enhanced precision.

Experiment and Adapt to Improve Consistency

The best dinking style is the one that feels natural and repeatable for you. Watching professional players reveals that no two athletes dink the same way. Whether you prefer a shoulder-driven slice or a wrist-heavy roll, the key is isolating movements during practice to develop a strong feel for the ball. By experimenting with different hinges and techniques, players can refine their dinking style, avoid common pitfalls like overusing multiple hinges simultaneously, and achieve greater control and consistency on the court.