Everyone talks about how important dinking is —but how do you actually get to that point in a rally? It doesn’t just happen. One of the most important steps to get there is learning how to reset the ball from the transition zone.

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So what exactly is a reset—and why is it such a game-changer for players trying to level up their game (and their pickleball ratings)?

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Master the Reset in Mid-Court

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A reset in pickleball is a soft, controlled shot typically played from mid-court or the transition zone with the purpose of neutralizing your opponent's offensive advantage. It is used to “reset” the pace of the rally, often after a fast exchange or when a player is under pressure.

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Instead of hitting a hard counter, players use a reset to drop the ball gently into the non-volley zone (also known as the kitchen), allowing time to recover and transition to the net.

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Why is Resetting Important?

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Mastering the reset shot is key for:

• Regaining control of the point 
• Moving up into the kitchen 
• Transitioning from defense to offense
• Improving overall court strategy

How to Perform a Reset

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1. Grip and Paddle Angle: Use a soft grip and open paddle face.
2. Body Position: Stay low with bent knees and keep your paddle out front.
3. Soft Hands: Focus on absorbing the pace of the ball.
4. Target Area: Aim for the kitchen with a gentle arc.
5. Recovery: Be ready to advance to the non-volley line.

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Practicing resets regularly will not only help with defense but also improve your confidence during pickleball tournaments where pressure situations are common.

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Resets vs. Dinks

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While both resets and dinks involve soft touch, they serve different purposes. A dink is typically used in an established kitchen rally, while a reset transitions a point into a dink rally. Both are critical shots to master and heavily influence your pickleball strategy.

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Reset To Improve Your Pickleball Ratings

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A solid reset can be the difference between a 3.5 and a 4.0 player. The ability to control the pace and force your opponent into neutral exchanges plays a significant role in pickleball ratings and success in pickleball tournaments.

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Looking to raise your DUPR? Start by adding resets to your training program. Keep practicing, study the best, and track your progress using DUPR.

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