Let’s face it - pickleball drills aren’t exactly what people call “fun.”
But here’s the twist: they actually are.
Especially when you’re doing them right.
If you’ve hit that “sort-of-solid-but-still-messy” phase in your game (you know who you are), some structured practice can go a long way.
The good news?
You don’t need four people and a clipboard to get better. Grab a buddy, bring some energy, and try out these two-person drills that are actually enjoyable and useful.
Dink & Reset Relay
Goal: Improve control, footwork, and soft game confidence.
Both players start at the non-volley zone (NVZ) line. One initiates a cross-court dink, and the other sends it back.
Keep a steady rhythm going. After 5–6 dinks, one player purposely speeds up the ball slightly - just enough to require a soft reset. The other player absorbs it and transitions back into a dink. Rinse and repeat.
Pro Tip: Try not to “win” the rally. This is about staying in it and developing touch, not blasting past your partner.
Third Shot Practice with a Purpose
Goal: Groove in that third shot drop or drive under light pressure.
One player is at the baseline, the other at the NVZ. The baseline player practices third shots - either drops or drives.
The net player returns each one softly to simulate a live return, letting the baseline player move in after each shot. Rotate roles after 10-15 balls.
Why It Helps: It mimics real points without the chaos of game play. The repetition builds consistency and timing.
Skinny Singles Game
Goal: Work on placement, consistency, and smart shot choices.
You play singles using only one half of the court (diagonally or straight on). This narrows your focus and highlights what’s working - and what’s not.
Serve, return, and play out the point. First to 11 wins, but make sure to switch sides halfway through.
Bonus: It’s a workout in disguise. You’ll notice your footwork getting sharper without even trying.
Volley Battle Challenge
Goal: Improve fast hands and net reflexes.
Both players start at the NVZ and volley back and forth. Start slow, then gradually speed it up.
If one person pops it up too high, the other can go for a put-away - but only one put-away per rally. It’s like sparring in boxing - intense, but controlled.
Variation: Try it with just your backhand side. It’s humbling but effective.
Serve + 1 Patterning
Goal: Practice the serve and the all-important next shot.
Player A serves. Player B returns cross-court. Player A then hits their “+1” shot - a drive, drop, or topspin drop-drive - into the opposite corner.
After that third ball, pause and reset. This drill teaches players to be intentional right after serving instead of standing and watching their serve like it’s art.
Pro Tip: Mix up serve placement (deep middle, wide, body) to add more value to the reps.
Final Words
These drills - and others - are great for players who’ve graduated from the basics and want more than just casual games to improve.
Two-person practice might not be as social as rec play, but it’s surprisingly fun when you’re dialed in with a good partner.
Plus, when you do go back to open play, those new skills sneak into your game - and suddenly, everything feels easier.
Give these a try next time the courts are empty. You might not miss that fourth player after all.
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