What the Pros Do That Your Missing

Let’s face it. We all think we’re just a few points away from going pro—until we find ourselves blaming the paddle, the wind, or that suspiciously dead ball for yet another loss to someone we should beat. So what are the pros really doing that separates them from the rest of us weekend warriors?

Turns out, it’s not about having the fanciest paddle or owning 18 pairs of court shoes. The real difference? It’s in the stuff we overlook—until now. Here are three big things the pros do that most of us don’t... and how you can change that (yep, even starting this week).

1. They Prepare Like Beasts (Physically and Mentally)

Let’s get this straight: pros don’t “wing it.” They prepare. Physically, they train smart, they build strength, they work on mobility and endurance, and they make sure their body wants to move like a ninja on court. Mental prep? Just as important. They visualise shots, set intentions, and walk into every match knowing their plan.

You? You might roll out of bed, eat a muffin, throw on your lucky shirt and hope for the best. Not quite the same energy.

Fix it:

• Physically: We’ve built a Pickleball Online Program specifically for players who want to train like the pros (without spending hours in the gym). It covers warm-ups, mobility, footwork, recovery and strength. No more tight hamstrings or sluggish reactions.
• Mentally: Set a pre-game intention. Ask: “What’s one thing I want to do better today?” Maybe it's movement, maybe it's patience. Boom—your brain is now engaged.

2. They Compete in EVERY Moment, Not Just the Big Ones

Here’s a brutal truth: social players tend to coast when they’re ahead, slack off against “easier” opponents, or mentally check out if they’re losing. Pros? They compete with the same energy whether it's match point at the US Open or round one at your local club. Every. Ball. Matters.

Fix it:

• Treat every point like it’s the one that defines your game. Not out of stress, but out of respect for the moment.
• Play “mini matches” in your head: Every 5 points, reset your focus like it’s a new set. This keeps you sharp and invested, especially against players you think you’ll beat (those are the sneaky ones that get you!).

3. They Focus on Performance, Not Just the Scoreboard

Winning feels great. But obsessing over winning? That’ll kill your performance faster than a shanked third shot drop. Pros don’t panic over the score. They focus on executing their plan. Whether it’s footwork, placement, or strategy—they stay process-driven. And guess what? That often leads to wins.

Fix it:

• Journal after matches. What did you do well? What did you learn? How did you respond under pressure?
• Set performance goals. Example: “Today I’m going to hit 70% of my serves deep.” That’s measurable, and totally within your control—unlike your opponent’s wild drop volley.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need a private jet or sponsorship deal to start thinking like a pro. Start small, start now. Prepare better, compete fully, and focus on what you can control. That’s how the gap between social player and pro gets a little smaller every day.

And hey, if you need help along the way—our Pickleball Fitness Online Program is your secret weapon. It’s packed with everything the pros do to move better, recover faster, and play with confidence.

Because guess what? The pros weren’t born that way—they trained that way.

Ready to level up?

👉 Join our Pickleball Fitness Program and learn how to move, think, and train like a pro—without needing a six-pack or a sponsor.