Getting stuck in the transition zone after your return? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common struggles in pickleball, no matter your DUPR rating. Most players know that the team that reaches the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) first usually takes control of the point. Thanks to the double-bounce rule, returners often have the advantage to get there first. But too often, you end up stranded halfway, scrambling to reset instead of attacking.

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Maybe your return was too short, or maybe the server ripped a deep, heavy ball that pushed you back, just like the one the world’s No. 1 pro recommends in our Pro Serving Tips article.

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The good news? Pro pickleball player Bobbi Oshiro has a simple way to fix it.

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1. Pause with a Split Step

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Instead of blindly running to the kitchen after your return, stop and perform a split step right before your opponent makes contact with their shot.

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Why?

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• It gives you balance.
  
  
• It resets your positioning.
  
  
• It buys you time to react to wherever the ball is going next.
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Bobbi Oshiro explains, “A common mistake is rushing to the NVZ after your return, which often leads to unforced errors or pop-ups because you’re off balance and out of position. That split step helps you stay grounded and ready.”

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2. Aim for a Deeper Return

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Your return shot is your best friend when trying to transition forward. Hitting your return deep does two big things:

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• Keeps your opponents farther back, giving you more time to move up.
  
  
• Makes it harder for them to hit a strong third shot.

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Because of the double bounce rule, the serving team is obligated to let your return bounce on their court side, so take advantage of that!

“Don’t be afraid to hit with a little more height over the net. A deep return buys you those extra steps and puts you in control of the rally, ” Bobbi said.

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3. Don’t Forget the Fourth Shot

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Most players focus heavily on their return, but Bobbi Oshiro stresses that the fourth shot is just as important because it sets the tone for the rally:

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• If your return was deep and you reached the NVZ, your next shot keeps the pressure on.
  
  
• If your return was short, your fourth shot can still help you reset and stay in the point.
  
  

Key Takeaway from Bobbi Oshiro

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Stop rushing: 

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• Split step for balance.
  
  
• Hit deep returns for time.
  
  
• Value your fourth shot.

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With these tips, you’ll stop feeling “stuck in transition” and start winning more points, helping you boost your pickleball ratings.

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Interested in learning more pro tips? Check out Bobbi Oshiro’s Road To Pro Guide.