Pickleball is growing fast, and if you're anything like the rest of us, you want to do more than just play. 

You want to get better.

Whether you're brand new to the sport or you’ve already been bitten by the competitive bug, there are plenty of ways to level up your game.

Here are eight practical ways to improve your skills and become a more confident, consistent player on the court.

1. Train with a ball machine

Ball machines are perfect for building consistency. They feed balls to the same spot over and over, so you can isolate your volleys, dinks, drives, and drops without chasing balls all over the place.

Some machines even come with oscillating features, which mimic game-like movement to help you react and adjust on the fly. Yes, they can be expensive, but the consistent reps might just be worth the investment if you're serious about improving.

2. Use targets for accuracy

You don’t need fancy gear to train well. Cones, discs, or even water bottles can serve as makeshift targets.

Want to improve your dinks? Place targets around the kitchen. Need help with deep serves or returns? Drop a few targets near the baseline. Practicing with a clear visual goal improves your accuracy and focus.

3. Improve reflexes with a rebound net

Fast hands win points. A rebound net is a great way to sharpen your reflexes and quicken your paddle prep. Stand seven feet from the net to simulate the kitchen, then drill dinks, quick volleys, and speed-ups.

If a net’s not in your budget, find a flat wall. Mark a 36-inch-high "net" line, stand seven feet back, and you’ve got yourself a simple training station at home.

4. Learn online for free

If you have an internet connection, you’ve got a coach. YouTube and other platforms are loaded with tutorials covering everything from footwork to strategy. Want to master stacking or learn when to drive the ball? There's a video for that.

Also, watch high-level play. Whether you stream a pro tournament or catch one in person, paying close attention to advanced players can help you understand shot selection, court positioning, and how to win tough points.

5. Drill more than you play

Yes, games are important. But drilling is where real improvement happens.

Instead of just playing point after point, grab a partner and work on one specific skill, like cross-court dinks, deep returns, or third-shot drops. Repetition builds muscle memory, and focused practice leads to real results.

6. Hire a coach

You don’t need a long-term commitment to benefit from coaching. Even one or two sessions can help identify weaknesses and offer tools to fix them.

Ask around, do a little research, and find a coach or skilled player in your area. Be clear about your goals. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn the basics or aiming to level up from 3.0 to 4.0, a good instructor will tailor lessons to your needs.

7. Play with better players

One of the fastest ways to improve is by challenging yourself. If you get the chance to play with more experienced players, take it, even if it means making mistakes.

They’ll hit harder, place shots smarter, and expose your weaknesses. But in doing so, they’ll also help you learn. Just remember, in those games, focus on the process, not the scoreboard.

And always show gratitude. If someone better gives you their time, thank them. Ask questions. Be open. Those learning moments are gold.

8. Build fitness off the court

Don’t underestimate your physical fitness. Cardio, weight training, and agility work all contribute to better on-court performance. You’ll move faster, recover quicker, and last longer during marathon match days.

A little time on the treadmill or stairmaster could mean the difference between winning and losing in that fifth game.

Final thoughts

Improving your pickleball game doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools, focused practice, and a mindset for growth, you’ll start seeing results.

Whether you're training with a machine, watching the pros, or just staying consistent with drills, every step counts. So get out there, stay curious, keep working, and most importantly, have fun doing it.