To Lob or Not to Lob...that is the Question

I have written very little about lobs for one reason - they are not a much of a factor in advanced play. Therefore, there is not much discussion about them in expert articles and videos. But I did write a post called The Lob where I discussed techniques and strategies. But the transition of tennis players to pickleball has brought more lobbing into play at intermediate and beginner levels. Sarah Ansboury has written an article for the RV Picklers called Pickleball Lobs…To Lob or Not to Lob that is shown below.

Pickleball Lobs…To Lob or Not to Lob

While hitting a lob is fairly common among new pickleball players, it is used less frequently among advanced players. But any player can learn to hit an effective pickleball lob if they follow these pointers.

When to Hit a Lob

If you notice your opponent leaning forward, into the non-volley zone, consider hitting a pickleball lob. As discussed in last week’s post, you want to keep your head and chest up when you are at the non-volley zone line. So if you see your opponent’s head dropping, it will be more difficult for them to retrieve a well-hit lob. If you have confidence in your ability to lob, consider capitalizing on this opportunity.

Secondly, if you notice that your opponent is off-balance, a lob may be an effective offensive weapon. Running down a lob is difficult for anyone, but it is nearly impossible if the player is not beginning from a balanced position to start.

Where to Hit a Lob

At the professional level, everyone is quick enough to run down a high floating lob. At the pro level, the key is to disguise the shot and hit it just out of reach of your opponent. But at any level, you want to consider where you want to hit a lob.

Ideally, you want to go over the backhand shoulder of a player. If both of your opponents are right-handed, the left shoulder of the player on the “odd side” of the court, is the best option. If the player on the even side attempts to cover it, they are left with a backhand shot. If the other player attempts to cover it, he has to go outside the court to retrieve the ball with his forehand.

If both players are left-handed, you would want to go over the right shoulder of the player on the even side of the court. Of course, if you have two backhands in the middle, the middle of the court can be a great lob target.

Offensive or Defensive

It is important to recognize when you are lobbing if it is an offensive or defensive shot. Sometimes, hitting a defensive lob in hopes of resetting the point and/or getting yourself back into position may be the only shot you feel you can get over the net and into the court. But in most situations,  you want to be offensive.

Practice hitting lobs from the non-volley zone. But be thoughtful about it…both when and where you hit pickleball lobs. Practice identifying the instances when your opponent is off-balance, or leaning too far forward. Then practice hitting it where it will be most difficult for them to return.