Last Updated on April 19, 2023
What is ATP in Pickleball?
The term “ATP” refers to the technique of hitting the ball around the non-volley zone line, otherwise known as the kitchen line, on the opponent’s side of the court. ATP in pickleball is often used to catch the opponent off guard and can be a powerful weapon in a player’s arsenal.
According to the USA Pickleball Association rule, around the post shot is legal to play in pickleball.
How to play an ATP shot in pickleball?
In this post, I will share step-by-step how to hit an ATP shot in pickleball for beginners.
Therefore, I’ve broken down this shot into a few steps to help you quickly master it by understanding its technique.
Anticipation
Anticipation is essential for reacting to and countering your opponent’s shots on the pickleball court.
In addition to footwork and set-up, an around-the-post shot requires patience, unique execution, and lots of patience.
Make sure you keep an eye out for sharp crosscourt angles from your opponents.
Fast Footwork
A successful ATP shot requires fast feet. To reach the pickleball if it is out of reach, you can use the crossover step method and run to the side.
The ball bounces off the court quickly, so it is important to get there as soon as possible.
If the ball is in your range, you should use the side step method to play the ball. This will help you maintain balance and be ready to take the next shot.
Be Patient and Hit the Ball Late
Patience is the key to playing this shot. You have to wait for the ball to come as low as possible before it hits the ground.
The longer you wait, the further it travels past the sideline, allowing you to get a better shot.
Many players try this shot and hit it really high; one trick is to wait until the ball is about 5 to 6 inches off the ground before flicking it to the opponent’s court.
Aim inside the sideline
When executing around the post, don’t aim for the sideline. It is a bit risky. Aim 2 to 3 feet inside the sideline to give yourself a margin of error.
If you let the ball get wide enough, you can quickly flick it into the post.
Hitting the ball late is the key to playing this shot. You must wait for the ball to come as low as possible before it hits the ground.
The Key Points to Play ATP
There a few tips on successful execution of an ATP;
- Keep eye on the ball
- Keep your paddle low
- Patience / hit the ball late
- Make contact out in front of your body
- Stay balanced
How to practice ATP?
You can practice around the post by using a pickleball machine or having your partner feed you balls with some pace.
- Move your feet to the ball.
- Wait for it to cross the court’s sideline.
- keep you body and paddle low.
- Execute the shot
Conclusion
An ATP shot in your arsenal will give you an extra edge when playing against tough opponents. Try to perfect it with volume practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Around the Post shot in pickleball?
It’s a shot you play from outside the court into an opponent’s court around the net.
Is ATP shot legal in pickleball?
According to the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), The game rules say you must get the ball into your opponent’s court. Therefore, ATP is legal to play.
Can you hit around the pole in pickleball?
Yes, you can play hit the ball around the pole in pickleball. This shot is known as ATP (Around the Post) in pickleball.
Meet John Wells, the passionate pickleball player and founder of Pickleball Advisor. With his love for the sport, John has been on a mission to empower others to succeed in pickleball by providing comprehensive reviews of the latest pickleball gear since 2020.