The pickleball community is buzzing about lobbing after a post by user TinkerSan sparked a lively discussion about the effectiveness of this increasingly popular shot. While many players were once taught that lobs are ineffective, recent trends suggest otherwise, with players finding success using lobs as a strategic weapon. The conversation captured a mix of perspectives, reflecting a shift in attitudes about the lob’s role in the game.
Summary
- The perception of lobbing has changed, with many players now viewing it as a strategic tool.
- A variety of playstyles influence attitudes towards lobbing—from defensive strategies to aggressive shot-making.
- Many players are adopting lobbing effectively, while others struggle with its execution.
- Player background, such as experience in tennis, greatly affects how lobbing is utilized in games.
The Shift in Perception
The idea that lobs are obsolete in pickleball is quickly changing. Users like TinkerSan reflect on how they were taught that lobs are the “worst” shot, a sentiment echoed by numerous players over time. However, as TinkerSan notes, the strategy is evolving, as more players are beginning to leverage the lob effectively. Comments from users like Tennisnerd39 strongly support this shift. He argues that “people who think lobs aren’t a good shot don’t have good overheads and are just salty.” This sentiment resonates well with many in the comment section, showcasing how lobbing is gaining respect as a defensive weapon that can turn the tide of a game.
Strategies and Play Styles
When discussing the execution of lobs, strategies vary widely amongst players. For instance, Ricorat17 provides an insightful take when they mention that disguising a lob as a dink “until the last second” can confuse opponents. This technique highlights an advanced strategy that allows players to manipulate their opponents’ positioning on the court effectively. Other players offer differing perspectives, such as WilieB, who emphasizes a more cautious approach, expressing frustration with a partner’s lobbing if it doesn’t have a high success rate. Wilie articulates it well: “If the success percentage is less than 75%, you are just losing points.” This divide showcases the ongoing debate regarding when and how to deploy the lob tactically during gameplay.
The Role of Background in Play
Interestingly, background experience comes into play, influencing how players approach lobbing. For example, ThespisTx revealed that their tennis background enables them to hit powerful topspin lobs that can effectively confuse opponents. They narrate their experiences, stating, “Hitting the lob with a ton of topspin means it doesn’t just take a ballistic arc but it pushes the apex further away without making the ball go out.” This player highlights how their skill set allows them to incorporate lobbing as a reliable shot, which is not as easily executed for those without such a background. Others echoed similar sentiments, noting how skills from tennis translate well into effective lobbing strategies, giving certain players an upper hand in the game.
The Love/Hate Relationship with Lobbing
<pMany players showcase a love/hate relationship with lobbing. For instance, modalities2025 shares their experiences while playing against senior partners who struggle with lobs. They say, “If you’re fairly athletic, you can receive and recover lobs regardless of age,” suggesting that athleticism plays a crucial role in how lobbing is perceived and executed. Meanwhile, Crosscourt_splat addresses the difficulty of executing a good lob at the kitchen line. He warns that while a well-executed lob can create strategic space, “if you screw it up, you’re getting blasted.” This highlights the high stakes involved when choosing to lob, as an error can lead to a swift counterattack, eliciting both frustration and excitement amongst players.
The dialogue around lobbing in pickleball has undoubtedly evolved. Users who once dismissed lobs are now recognizing their value, with many sharing personal experiences that underline the diverse applications of this shot in games. It’s inspiring to see community members engage in lively discussion to better understand the intricacies of lobbing and to learn how it can be leveraged effectively in different gameplay situations. As more players embrace this shot, it could change the landscape of pickleball strategies, proving that sometimes, adopting an unconventional approach can lead to the greatest success on the court.