In a recent post, I wrote about the net and how players shouldn’t give up on the ball when it is heading for the net because it just might go over. Here is the link The Net is Not Your Friend.

I want to make sure that everyone understands the concept of personal limits related to Pickleball and any sport for that matter. Only you know how well your knees are doing and how your back feels, etc. When I play Pickleball, there are some players who have difficulty bending down to pick up the ball yet they continue to play. Is it safe? Yes it is because they know their personal limits and they don’t try for balls they know they cannot reach.

There are a number of times I am playing against opponents and they make a “near perfect” lob when I am at the net. It is not too high, just over my head and headed for my backhand, rear corner. This is a ball I would have trouble getting if I am leaning forward at the net. What do I do? I sometimes just say “good shot!” and let it go. They win the point if it lands in. I know I cannot get that ball so I don’t try for it.

In essence, I live to play another point. I don’t get hurt. It is only a point after all and there are other points to be won or lost. It is important that we all understand our personal limits and don’t try to do too much especially those who, like me, are past retirement and heading toward the seventh decade worth of birthdays.

It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try for a ball you are fairly certain you can get. It means understand which balls may be too great a risk to try for under the current circumstances and with your physical limits.

Other than that, have a great time and keep up the Pickleball playing