Dinking in Pickleball: A Friendly Chat About Mastering the Game's Gentle Art

Dinking in Pickleball: A Friendly Chat About Mastering the Game's Gentle Art

Are you a lover of pickleball like I am? It seems everywhere I look I’m seeing pickleball! Where did this come from? Why is it so popular? Oh, and my favorite, the dink shot! Yes, you heard it right–there’s a shot in pickleball call the “dink”. I’m ready to take a deep dive into all things pickkleball, including the famous big dink”. 

So, What's a Dink Anyway?

Picture this: you're at the net, and the ball barely makes it over the net! You know these type of shots… .Well, there’s actually a name for them–”the dink”. 

It's not about power; it's about finesse and timing. A well-executed dink can be the difference between winning and losing–and did I mention how fun it is to hit the dink shot?

More on the The Big Dink 

Now, getting your dink right isn't rocket science, but it does need a bit of finesse and of course some practice.   First, your stance – you want to be light on your feet, ready but relaxed.  Think of a cat watching a laser pointer….. Your paddle grip? Firm but not tight. Imagine the cliche’ “holding a baby bird in your hands” – you wouldn't squeeze it, right?

The swing is more of a gentle push than a hard whack. Power is not important. Aim just over the net and let the ball drop into the opponents area on the court called the kitchen.. It's like playing a game of keep-away with your dog, but instead of a frisbee, it's a pickleball.

Common Big Dinking Faux Pas

We've all been there – overdoing a dink and turning it into a prime smash opportunity for the opponent. Or underdoing it and hitting the net. My personal favorite? The 'phantom dink' where I swing... and completely miss the ball. But hey, it's all part of the learning curve!

Stepping Up Your Dink Game

Once you get the hang of the basic dink, it's time to add some spice. Vary your shots – a little to the left, then a sneaky one to the right. Keep your opponent guessing. It's like playing chess, but with paddles and a plastic ball.

Pro Insights

I once had the chance to chat with a pro player, and they said something that stuck with me: "Dinking is like a conversation. You're not yelling; you're whispering." That's some poetic pickleball wisdom right there!

When They Dink Back

Ah, the counter-dink. It's all about anticipation and reaction. Watch your opponent's body language – it often gives away their next move. Think of it as a dance, where you're both trying to lead.

It’s Time To Let The Big Dink Loose

Remember, pickleball is as much about fun as it is about competition. The dink shot might seem simple, but it's a game-changer. Btw, did we tellyou our favorite way to dink? It’s with the best paddles on the planet–The Big Dink Original! 

So, next time you're on the court, give it a try. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the gentle art of dinking.