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

Today we're digging into playing WITH and AGAINST lefties. Should you stack? What are the three most important things when playing with a lefty? What should you look for when playing against a lefty? Where to target? All this and more on today's ep! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

http://402p.com/warmup to get your Yobow Bakpak+ Today we talk paddle weighting ! It can be a bit of a "dark art", but we do our best to demystify the confusion about it and put you well on your way to dialing in your paddle to best suit your game! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since Mircea has just gotten to Aspen for the summer, we thought it would be a great time to talk about adjusting to adverse playing conditions in pickleball. Today we talk altitude, wind, indoor, sun, cold, and hot, and how to adjust to them! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our first show in front of a live audience! So much fun with our 4.0 to Pro campers! A bunch of great questions and such a great vibe with a live audience at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kids. Last episode we covered right side play. This one we focus on the roles and responsibilities of the left side player. Our suggestion is that you send this podcast to everyone you regularly play with so you are better as a team on the court! http://402p.com/warmup for the Yobow BakPak+ http://crbnpickleball.com/ use promo code "402p" at checkout for 10% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're talking right side play...what your responsibilities are, and how to be the best supporting cast you can! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we attack one of our most commonly asked questions! What if I'm a lifelong tennis player but a new pickleball player??? Where do I start! Well, today we've got your answer! Get a CRBN Paddle for 10% off by using the promo code "402p" at checkout. http://crbnpickleball.com Get your Yobow Bak Pak+ and stop getting injured on the pickleball court! http://402p.com/warmup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two VIP Slots Left For our Camp: http://402p.com/camp Get your Yobow Gear Here: http://402p.com/warmup Bangers in pickleball! Here's how to counter them, play against them, and frustrate them! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us at our 402P Camp at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale! http://402p.com/camp Get your Yobow Bakpak+ and make sure your bod is ready for the court! http:/402p.com/warmup Today we tackle swinging volleys. These are shoulder high type balls, and let's refine your technique to make them a consistent put away! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's another Q&A Show...it's been a little minute since we did one! Check out Yobow's Bak Pak+ http://402p.com/warmup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanks to Yobow for Sponsoring this episode! Get the Bak Pak+ at http://402p.com/warmup. Join us at The Fort for our first camp of 2025! http://402p.com/camp The 5th shot in pickleball requires a LOT of choices in a very small span of time. We're breaking down your options in today's episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

http://402p.com/warmup for the Yobow Bak Pak+! Getting injured SUCKS. And it's mostly preventable...but we don't do the things necessary to prevent it. On today's show, we chat with David Welles from The Yobow about injury prevention, and how warming up can completely enhance your game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale for our first 402p Camp! http://402p.com/camp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BONUS EPISODE! http://402p.com/camp The Fort, a premier pickleball destination in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offers a wide range of amenities designed to provide an unmatched pickleball experience! And our first east coast 402p camp is going to be held there May 29-31, 2025! Register here: http://402p.com/camp Pickleball Facilities 43 professional courts, including the world's first dedicated pickleball stadium (2,000-seat capacity) 14 weatherproof courts for play in any condition 4 grandstand courts with permanent seating for spectators Player Services Pro shop (2,500 square feet) Locker rooms Fitness and recovery center Entertainment and Dining The Lakehouse restaurant offering made-from-scratch dishes and signature drinks 4,000 square foot event center Food and beverage options embodying the South Florida lifestyle Additional Amenities Luxury suites Golf simulators Dart room Volleyball courts Paddleboarding on a 7-acre crystal clear lake Game yard with live music Technology FortTV streaming service for gameplay QR codes for placing food and beverage orders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahhh, the Cross Court Speedup. You Should NEVER do it. Except sometimes you should totally do it. Patreon: http://402p.com/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

http://402p.com/camp http://402p.com/support - Join our Patreon! Today we talk pickleball volleys...the different types, the how, what, and why, and everything else you need to know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For information on our live camp in LA: http://402p.com/camp To Support the show: http://402p.com/support For 10% off your CRBN Paddle use "402p" at checkout at crbnpickleball.com. In this milestone 100th episode of the 4.0 to Pro Pickleball Podcast, hosts Michael O'Neal and Mircea Morariu celebrate the growth of the show and delve into various strategies and tips to improve your pickleball game. Broadcasting from rainy Long Beach, California, and sunny Boca Raton, Florida, respectively, the hosts discuss their upcoming NPL combine in Glendale, Arizona, and share insights from recent pickleball experiences, including indoor vs. outdoor play and the importance of court positioning. They also announce their first official pickleball camp in Calabasas, CA, and interact with listener questions on topics like handling hard returns, training to split-step, and tournament mentality. The show emphasizes consistent practice, drilling, and strategic thinking as pathways to elevate your game from 4.0 to pro. 00:00 Introduction and Upcoming NPL Combine 00:39 Exploring Powerplay Pickleball in LA 01:26 The Future of Pickleball: Indoors vs Outdoors 03:31 Episode 100 Milestone and Reflections 06:49 Announcing the First Official Camp 09:14 Listener Voicemails and Questions 22:18 Overcoming Mistakes and Sharing Experiences 23:21 Strategies for Handling Hard Hitters 24:23 Pre-Serve Alignment and Footwork Tips 25:30 Adapting to Opponents' Play Styles 31:12 Tournament Strategies and Mentality 39:29 The Origin Story of the Podcast 42:33 Gratitude and Future Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leave your message here! http://402p.com/speak Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support The Show! http://402p.com/support Get 10% off your entire order at CRBNPickleball.com Using Promo code "402p" Welcome to another episode of 4.0 to Pro. Today, we're diving into how to let out balls go out. From pre-game preparation to on-court tactics and effective drilling techniques, we've got you covered. Let's break it down! Pre-Game Checklist: Reading the Room Before you step onto the court, it's crucial to assess your environment: Wind direction and strength Ball type being used Temperature and altitude Indoor vs. outdoor court Opponent's paddle choice and technique (observe during warm-up) Preparation is Key Set yourself up for success with these preparatory steps: Know your court positioning (transition zone, kitchen) Master the split step Maintain a stable base and ready posture Keep your paddle in the optimal position (fight low, not high) What to Watch For During Play Keep an eye out for these key elements: Low to high shots Opponents in transition Kitchen play and counters Grip types and paddle angles Backswing and overall swing mechanics Player positioning, especially in transition zones Ball trajectory and height Tactical Tips Use the sideline as an extra defender for cross-court shots Focus on fighting low shots Be selective about which shots to contest Adjust your play based on opponent tendencies Effective Drilling Techniques Improve your skills with these drill ideas: Speed-up and counter drills face-to-face Practice speed-ups off the bounce Let some shots go out (don't chase everything) Engage in intentional recreational play Remember, sometimes taking one for the team early in the game can pay off later! That's all for today's episode. Practice these tips, and you'll see improvement in no time. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this helpful. See you on the courts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Please consider supporting us and the show on Patreon! http://402p.com/support If you'd like your CRBN TruFoam Paddle, use promo code "402p" at checkout at CRBNPickleball.com Today we're on about STACKING in pickleball. How and why you should be doing it more than you probably are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Support the show by going to http://402p.com/support Lobs...love 'em or hate 'em. Today we show you how to do them and how to defend them! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're talking firefights! How to position yourself, how to hold your hands, how to work with your partner, how to drill, etc. Congrats to our CRBN TruFoam Winner! Get 10% off your CRBN order by using "402p" at Checkout. http://crbnpickleball.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Use Promo code "402p" at Checkout for 10% off CRBN Products at http://crbnpickleball.com Hi guys. Michael here. Thought I'd bang out a quick episode and talk to you about my experiences with the CRBN TruFoam Genesis 1 and 2. You can win a CRBN 3 Trufoam here: http://402p.com/contest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Win the CRBN 3 TruFoam Paddle: http://402p.com/contest Ultima Electrolytes (Mircea's Fave) https://amzn.to/4jqSFq5 How to prep for a tournament, part deux! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part 1 of a 2-parter. How to prep mentally and physically for a pickleball tournament! To inquire about advertising on the podcast and/or live clinics and camps, reach us at http://picklehelp.com or @4.0_to_Pro and @brainsdoc. Get 10% off at CRBN Pickleball by using the promo code "402p" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The pickleball drive has evolved in it's usage and practicality RADICALLY in the last few years. Let's learn how and when to use them, and how and when to do them. To inquire about advertising on the podcast and/or live clinics and camps, reach us at http://picklehelp.com or @4.0_to_Pro and @brainsdoc. Get 10% off at CRBN Pickleball by using the promo code "402p" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we revisit dinking...this unique trait to pickleball is one of the areas where we can get a key advantage if we know what we're doing. So let's shore up our dinking mechanics, strategy, and execution on this show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The left foot should be a primary target for you, whether you are serving, your opponents in transition, or in a dinking rally. Today we chat about all things left foot on your favorite pod! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Enjoy today's Q&A episode, brought to you by...YOU. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're an avid listener or a first-timer, this episode revisits past insights with a fresh perspective. As the game evolves rapidly, especially with the introduction of Gen 3 paddles, understanding your strategic approach is more crucial than ever. This post distills our discussion into actionable advice to enhance your pickleball proficiency. ### Why Strategy Matters Mircea shares the delight of implementing learned strategies in live games, a testament to the podcast's impact. Whether during practice or competitive play, the feedback from listeners like you shapes the evolution of your game and ours. These cumulative reflections drive our strategic segment today. ### Clinic Updates and Community Engagement Michael discusses the enthusiasm surrounding upcoming clinics designed to cater to both VIP individuals and general attendees. Set to be a four-day event, it promises personalized coaching, engaging meet and greets, and plenty of practice opportunities. For those eager to join, connect with us via picklehelp.com or find us on social media for more details. ### The Art of the Fourth Shot One of the neglected aspects of pickleball strategy is the fourth shot. Emphasizing the fourth is crucial for setting the tone early in the game. Here's how each player can effectively strategize: - **Positioning and Communication**: As the returning partner, ensure to hit deep and aim for your opponent's weaker side. Discuss these targets with your partner briefly but effectively. - **Playing on the Prowl**: Use your position effectively – whether at the baseline or near the kitchen – to capitalize on your opponent's limitations. As Mike highlights, your presence can create pressure and cover for your partner. - **Shot Specifics**: Understanding shot placement – whether it's a drive, floater, or dink – can determine your success in applying pressure or defending successfully. ### Adapting to Modern Equipment As Michael notes, the advent of advanced paddles has shifted gameplay dynamics drastically. Drives are faster, and spin is more potent. Therefore, stability becomes essential when facing powerful shots. Employ a split-step technique to stabilize before contact, which will help manage the game's physical demands. ### Strategic Discussions and Adjustments Continuous communication with your partner is invaluable. Mircea elaborates on the importance of tactical discussions even in recreational play. Recognizing opponents' strengths and weaknesses can turn the tide of a game. Adjust your strategies accordingly – such as redirecting play based on opponents' drive capabilities. ### The Tech Angle: Stacking and Unstacking Mircea guides us through stacking strategies, emphasizing unstacking's importance during play. Adjustments in positioning can make significant tactical impacts, thereby offering new avenues for both offense and defense. ### Conclusion This episode of "4.0 to Pro" is packed with strategic insights and settings aimed at transforming your pickleball encounters from mere matchups to precise plays of cerebral chess. Remember, being proactive and communicative, even off-court through strategic discussions, can elevate your gameplay significantly. **Join us again as we continue to dissect the nuances of pickleball strategy and provide pathways to elevate your gameplay from the beginner to professional levels.** Thank you for amplifying your game with us at "4.0 to Pro." Your support on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify helps us reach more enthusiasts like yourself. Until next time, keep paddling! --- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Self-Evaluation and Improvement Strategies for Pickleball Players In this episode of '4.0 to Pro', Michael O'Neal and Mircea Morariu discuss the importance of self-evaluation and improvement strategies in pickleball. They delve into their personal experiences with altitude adjustments in gameplay, the significance of identifying weaknesses, and the psychological aspect of coaching oneself and others. The episode emphasizes the value of video recording, asking friends for feedback, and professional coaching to recognize and improve weaknesses. We also announce upcoming 4.0 to Pro clinics for early 2025. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to elevate their pickleball game. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro Pickleball Podcast 00:40 Altitude Challenges in Pickleball 02:03 Self-Evaluation and Recognizing Weaknesses 03:52 Mindset and Reframing in Pickleball 05:24 Effective Communication with Partners 10:36 Four Ways to Identify Weaknesses 15:18 The Importance of Film Study 18:47 Asking Friends for Feedback 23:41 The Role of Coaching in Improvement 26:25 Upcoming 4.0 to Pro Clinics 28:30 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So today discuss the importance of mindset on the pickleball court. We share personal anecdotes about handling bad calls and competitive pressures, emphasizing mindset as a skill. Michael talks about a recent game where a strategic serve and a disputed call led to a shift in focus, highlighting how different responses to adversity can impact performance. Mircea provides insights into the significance of footwork and routines, sharing techniques used by top athletes like Anna Lee Waters and Rafael Nadal to maintain mental resilience. The episode concludes with practical advice on embracing gratitude and maintaining perspective while playing pickleball. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro: Your Pocket-Sized Pickleball Podcast 00:26 Mindset on the Court: Handling Bad Calls and Mistakes 03:21 Turning Frustration into Motivation 08:03 The Importance of Mental Reset Routines 17:09 Footwork Fundamentals: The Key to Consistency 18:53 Gratitude and Perspective: Enjoying the Game 19:59 Closing Thoughts and Thanksgiving Wishes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we revisit 3rd shots, which we covered ALL THE WAY in episode 2 of the podcast. The 3rd shot has evolved so quickly since then that we thought it would be a great idea to revisit the 4 options we have, and which one has taken over the #1 spot in popularity since I've started playing in 2020! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guess what??? Our esteemed co-host, Mircea Morariu, just won the GOLD medal at the USA Pickleball National Championships. I thought we'd have a chat and see what it takes to become a national champion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have a great bunch of questions from you guys! To submit your questions, find us at picklehelp.com or 4.0_to_Pro on IG! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this ep, Mircea and Michael break down the most common scenarios in pickleball, and what your goal should be in those scenarios. It's easy to make the game really complicated, but if you can achieve these goals as you play, you'll win more games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New for '24! An updated version on best practices for winning pickleball! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we give you a simple tip to give you that "green light" as you're advancing through the transition zone to the NVZ, and take advantage of your great drop!! http://crbnpickleball.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we talk about making a plan in pickleball and sticking to it. Mike shares a story about how a well-executed plan was able to win them a game against much better opponents. We also chat about making a simple plan, and what the various stages of mastery are. Use The Promo Code "Free402p" at checkout at hellofresh.com Get 10% off CRBN Paddles by using the promo code 402p at Checkout at CRBN Pickleball. 00:10 Hurricane Season in Florida 02:31 Stages of Mastery in Pickleball 04:05 Unconscious Incompetence to Conscious Competence 07:45 Advanced Strategy and Communication 11:05 Executing Game Plans and Adjusting Strategies 21:32 The Importance of Communication and Partnership 22:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we discuss the significance of middle court strategies in pickleball. We once again emphasize the need for communication and chemistry among players of all levels, particularly concerning who covers the middle court. They highlight scenarios where middle play is crucial, sharing insights from personal experiences and competitive play. The conversation covers the dynamics of playing as a team, the importance of effective communication, and strategic shot placement, especially when dealing with shots aimed at the middle of the court. Additionally, Mircea shares his experience on the senior pro tour and emphasizes the impact of returning in the middle, dictating team roles, and optimizing court coverage through strategic positioning. 00:00 Welcome to 4.0 to Pro Pickleball Podcast 00:34 Senior Pro Tour Highlights 01:09 Team Chemistry and Achievements 01:58 The Riddle in the Middle: Communication in Pickleball 04:04 Strategies for Middle Balls 07:50 Pro Tips for Covering the Middle 10:40 Advanced Techniques and Scenarios 24:04 Dinking Patterns and Court Geometry 25:33 Conclusion and Sponsor Message Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

http://makeemhit.com for softgoods and swag! In this episode of 4.0 to Pro, hosts Michael O'Neal and Mircea Morariu discuss the importance of in-game communication between partners in pickleball. They delve into strategies such as team chemistry, the significance of communication, coordinating attacks, and the benefits of understanding your partner's moves. The episode features insights inspired by a post from Jill Braverman and includes practical tips for improving your game through better communication and strategic planning. Discussing Jill Braverman's Post Six Questions for Pre-Match Discussion Question 1: To Whom Are We Returning? Question 2: Where Are We Hitting Our Thirds? Question 3: Who Are We Attacking in Transition? Question 4: What is Our Dink Pattern? Question 5: Desired Combos Question 6: Where Are We Sitting On Counters? Mike's Additional Seventh Question Final Thoughts and Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 4.0 to Pro, hosts Michael O'Neal and Mircea Morariu dive into the importance of observation and what to look for in pickleball. Broadcasting from sunny Long Beach, California, Michael chats with Mircea, They discuss the critical role of 'eyes' in the game, offering insightful tips on how players can improve their anticipation and positioning by focusing on their opponents' paddle angles and body positioning. The duo also touches on the significance of communication between partners during matches and how it can influence game strategy. Additionally, they share personal experiences and practical examples to highlight these concepts, aiming to help players slow down the game and enhance their overall performance. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:20 NPL Event and Team Dynamics 02:15 Pickleball Paddle Promotion 02:32 The Importance of Eyes in Pickleball 06:04 Baseline Strategies and Court Positioning 13:11 Transition Zone Tactics 18:58 Kitchen Play and Paddle Angles 27:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Mircea Morariu and Michael O'Neal tackle YOUR pickleball questions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott has just taken Bronze in Split Age at the Minto US Open of Pickleball in Naples Fl. While he's down there, we thought it would be a great time to tackle how to prepare for tournaments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How are your warmups? Are you warming up your body, as well as your shots? The pros do. You should be. Here's an insider guide to warming your body up, and what shots to warm up with to dominate those peons you call your friends. Here's the beginner jump rope workout mentioned in the show: https://youtu.be/1BZM2Vre5oc 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 wedelve into advanced dinking strategies to elevate your pickleball game. First we talk about recognizing and exploiting patterns on the court. What it means to be up, down, and neutral within a point, the significance of dinking technique, and effective drilling methods for skill improvement. Listeners are offered tactical advice on maintaining control during rallies and targeted drills to enhance their dinking game, all aimed at honing both technical skill and strategic mindset. 01:19 Advanced Dinking Strategy 03:43 Analyzing Pro Players' Patterns 05:44 Up, Down, and Neutral Points 08:07 Recognizing and Exploiting Weaknesses 17:54 Drilling Techniques for Dinking Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are chatting backhands! The "tooey" has been my preferred shot these days, but many pickleballers don't know a thing about a backhand. This show will demystify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 4.0 to Pro, hosts Michael O'Neal and Mircea Morariu discuss essential strategies to enhance your game. They cover topics such as communication with your doubles partner, targeting specific areas of the court, and adjusting mid-game based on your opponents' strengths and weaknesses. Key insights include the importance of constantly discussing strategies with your partner, the effectiveness of third shot drives against powerful paddles, and the concept of following the path of the ball for optimal court positioning. Featuring expert tips from former top-ranked senior pro player Mircea Morariu, this episode provides valuable advice for players aiming to elevate their pickleball skills. 00:00 Introduction and Host Greetings 00:30 Pickleball Experiences and Challenges 01:09 Highlighting Pro Players and Their Achievements 02:25 Strategic Advancement to the Non-Volley Zone 03:56 Targeting and Communication Strategies 18:12 Positioning on the Court 24:37 Mid-Game Adjustments and Communication 29:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(Replay Episode 9) Today we can't drive 55! Sammy Hagar references aside, we are talking ground strokes / drives in pickleball, and when, where, and how we should be hitting them. Do we go for the "hero shot", or stick with the conservative "60% drive"?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we discuss "The Cradle Drop", which is a shot every pickleball player should have in their consistent arsenal. We walk through the mechanics of the shot, as well as a couple ways to drill it. Follow http://instagram.com/brainsdocpickleball, and thanks to Mircia for stepping in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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