đĽMost pickleball players are warming up completely wrongâand itâs leading to more injuries than youâd think. The worst part? Even experienced players are making these mistakes.
In todayâs newsletter, Iâll break down:
â
The 3 biggest warm-up mistakes (and how to fix them)
â
A simple 5-minute pre-game routine that reduces injury risk
â
A quick mindset shift to boost confidence before you step on the court
Letâs dive in! âŹď¸
đĽ The 3 Biggest Warm-Up Mistakes in Pickleball
Mistake #1: Static Stretching Before Playing
đ Holding stretches before a match actually weakens your muscles and increases injury risk. Save static stretching for AFTER your game.Mistake #2: Skipping Activation Drills
đ If you donât warm up your paddle hand, wrist, and shoulders, youâre setting yourself up for stiffness and slow reaction time.Mistake #3: No Cardio Warm-Up
đ Jumping into a game cold? Bad idea. Your heart rate and joints arenât ready, making you more prone to strains and fatigue.
â The 5-Minute Pre-Game Routine That Protects Your Body
Loosen up, prevent injuries, and get in the zone.
1ď¸âŁ Dynamic Mobility (2 min): Arm swings, high knees, and side lunges to get blood flowing.
2ď¸âŁ Activation Drills (2 min): controlled paddle swings, light dinking, and volley drills.
3ď¸âŁ Joint-Friendly Cardio (1 min): Short lateral shuffles and controlled footwork drills.
This primes your muscles, joints, and reflexes so youâre ready to dominate from the first point.
đ§ Quick Mindset Hack for Instant Confidence
Feeling nervous before a game? Hereâs a pro tip:
Before you step on the court, repeat this phrase:
"I play my game. I stay in control."
This keeps you focused and confident, no matter whoâs on the other side of the net.
Whatâs Next?
â
Save this email for later â youâll want to use this warm-up next time you play.
â
Reply and let me know: Do you currently have a warm-up routine? If so, whatâs in it? I read every reply.
â
Forward this to a pickleball partner who never warms up!
Stay injury-free & keep crushing it on the court!
đ Coach Pete
P.S. Want more exclusive tips? Stay tuned for next weekâs issue on âThe #1 Mistake Thatâs Slowing Down Your Reaction Time.â


