Pickleball is a fun sport played by many people. It uses a paddle and a plastic ball. The game is simple but has many interesting moves. One special move is called the ATP shot. You might wonder, what is ATP in pickleball? This article will explain it clearly.
Meaning of ATP in Pickleball
ATP stands for Around The Post. It is a special way to hit the ball. Most players hit the ball over the net. But in an ATP shot, the ball goes around the net post. The net post is the pole that holds the net. The ball does not go over the net but around the side of the post.
This is a legal shot in pickleball. It follows the game rules. The ball must land inside the opponent’s court. But it does not have to go over the net. This makes ATP unique and exciting.
Credit: www.selkirk.com
How Does the ATP Shot Work?
The ATP shot is tricky but useful. Imagine your opponent hits the ball wide, near the net post. You run to the side of the net post. Then, you hit the ball around the post. The ball travels outside the net boundary but lands inside the court on your opponent’s side.
This shot can surprise your opponent. They expect the ball to go over the net, but it does not. The ATP shot can help you win points that seem lost.
Credit: www.youtube.com
When to Use the ATP Shot?
The ATP shot is not used all the time. It needs the right moment and skill. Here are some good times to try it:
- Your opponent hits the ball very close to the net post.
- You are quick and can move to the side fast.
- You want to surprise your opponent with a different shot.
- You want to avoid hitting the ball over a tall net or a player’s paddle.
Using ATP at the right time can give you an advantage in the game.
How to Hit an ATP Shot?
Hitting an ATP shot needs practice. Here are the simple steps:
- Watch the ball carefully as it comes near the net post.
- Move quickly to the side of the net post.
- Hold your paddle ready to hit the ball.
- Hit the ball around the post, not over the net.
- Try to keep the ball low and close to the net.
Practice these steps to get better at ATP shots.
Difference Between ATP and Other Shots
Pickleball has many special shots. One is the Erne shot. It is different from ATP. Here is a simple comparison:
| Shot | How It Works | Where Ball Travels |
|---|---|---|
| ATP (Around The Post) | Ball goes around the net post. | Outside the net post, but inside the court. |
| Erne | Player jumps or steps outside the kitchen near the sideline to hit the ball. | Ball goes over the net from the side near the kitchen. |
The ATP shot is about the ball’s path. The Erne involves player’s position and jump.
Is the ATP Shot Legal in Pickleball?
Yes, the ATP shot is legal. The official pickleball rules allow the ball to go around the net post. The ball does not have to go over the net. But it must land inside the court lines on your opponent’s side.
There is no limit on how high the ball can go during an ATP shot. This makes it a useful shot in many situations.
Benefits of Using the ATP Shot
Using the ATP shot can help you in several ways:
- Surprise your opponent: They expect the ball over the net.
- Reach difficult shots: When the ball is close to the post.
- Gain quick points: Because opponents may miss the ball.
- Play smart: Use the court space better.
These benefits make ATP a valuable shot for players who want to improve their game.
How to Defend Against ATP Shots?
Just like using ATP is smart, defending it is important. Here are some tips to stop ATP shots:
- Watch the ball near the net posts carefully.
- Move quickly to cover the sides of the net.
- Communicate with your partner in doubles.
- Practice good footwork to reach wide shots.
Good defense reduces the chance of your opponent scoring with ATP shots.
Practice Tips for ATP Shots
Try these tips to practice ATP shots:
- Use drills where balls are hit near the net post.
- Practice moving quickly sideways along the net.
- Work with a partner to feed balls for ATP practice.
- Focus on paddle control and ball placement.
- Start slow and increase speed as you improve.
Practice often to build confidence and skill with the ATP shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between An Atp And An Ernie In Pickleball?
An ATP in pickleball is a shot hit around the net post outside the net. An Ernie involves jumping outside the kitchen line to volley near the sideline. ATP travels around the post; Ernie requires positioning by the kitchen line for a quick volley.
What Is The Ernie Rule In Pickleball?
The Ernie rule in pickleball allows a player to hit the ball in the air near the kitchen sideline. Players cannot volley inside the kitchen but may jump or step outside its boundary to strike the ball mid-air. This move is called an Ernie.
Why Is It Called Atp Pickleball?
ATP in pickleball stands for “Around The Post. ” It describes a shot hit outside the net post, not over the net. This skillful move surprises opponents by landing inbounds on their side, adding excitement and strategy to the game.
ATP shots are legal and popular among advanced players.
Are Atp Shots Legal In Pickleball?
ATP shots are legal in pickleball. Players can hit the ball around the net post without it crossing over the net. The ball must land inbounds on the opponent’s side. This shot adds skill and excitement to the game while following official pickleball rules.
Conclusion
The ATP shot is a special and legal shot in pickleball. It means hitting the ball around the net post. This shot can surprise opponents and help win points. It requires quick movement and good paddle control. Knowing when and how to use ATP makes the game more fun.
Players who learn ATP can add a new skill to their pickleball play. Remember to practice and watch the ball carefully. The ATP shot is a smart way to use the whole court.