Block Progression: Punch Thirds, Then Redirect Pace to Feet/Lines

Summary

Pickleball Kitchen (Barrett) builds a four-level blocking progression so bangers stop owning you.

Level one is the third-shot drive punch block: paddle out front, short backswing, use their pace — big swings pop the ball up. Level two is redirect: once the block is solid, aim center line, sideline, or feet and point the face where you want it to go. Mindset shift: hard drives are pace you can borrow, not something to fear.

Key takeaways

• Short punchy backswing on third-shot drive blocks
• Use opponent pace — don’t add a big swing
• After the block is stable, redirect to feet / lines / middle

Action items

• Feed hard thirds: 20 punch blocks with zero follow-through
• Next set: every successful block must aim a target (feet / line / middle)