'So many players don’t hit available ATPs simply because they fail to recognize when they’ve been gifted one.'

Everyone remembers the joy, the elation, the absolute THRILL of hitting their first successful ATP. I definitely do! The ATP (or around-the-post) shot is one of the hardest to hit in pickleball, and when the opportunity presents itself, you definitely want to be able to capitalize on it.

Here are a few tips to hit better ATPs. If you want more content like this, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter!

A successful ATP is about three things: 

• Anticipation
• Footwork
• PATIENCE!!! 

So many players don’t hit available ATPs simply because they fail to recognize when they’ve been gifted one. Whenever you notice your opponent is hitting aggressive dinks (especially with topspin) while not threatening a speedup, start looking for an ATP opportunity. The anticipation is half the battle! 

The other half of the battle is having the appropriate footwork and being PATIENT. So many ATPs fail either because people get their feet tangled, or they hit the ball way too early and effectively shoot themselves in the foot.

Try to wait to make contact until the very last possible second (pro tip: have your arm be as straight as possible when you hit the ball).

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For footwork, make sure 75% of your weight is on your OUTSIDE leg at contact (if you’re right-handed, for your forehand ATP, most of your weight should be on your RIGHT foot). 

Try to focus on these three things and you should see your ATP success rate skyrocket. If you’re interested in learning more about the ATP at the pro level and how it’s changed the game, I covered this in my last newsletter.