If you’re new to pickleball in Burlington or Oakville, you’ve probably heard someone mention “dinking” and no, it’s not a typo or a new dance move.
Dinking is a soft, strategic shot that plays a huge role in winning games. It might look simple, but mastering the dink can be what separates beginners from serious players. Whether you’re just picking up a paddle or you’ve played a few games at one of the local pickleball courts in Burlington, this guide will help you understand and improve your soft game.
What Is a Dink in Pickleball?
A dink is a gentle shot hit just over the net, landing in the opponent’s non-volley zone (aka the “kitchen”). The goal is to make your opponents hit up on the ball — giving you the chance to move in and finish the point.
Instead of smashing or driving the ball, a good dink forces your opponent into awkward positions and slows the game down. It’s all about control, patience, and smart placement — not power.
Why Dinking Matters
If you’re just getting into pickleball in Burlington, it’s tempting to go for the big shots right away. But the soft game is where real strategy lives.
Here’s why dinking is essential:
- It resets the pace: A good dink takes the heat out of a rally and gives you time to reposition.
- It creates errors: Opponents often try to do too much with a low, soft ball.
- It opens up the court: Consistent dinking can force your opponent to pop the ball up — giving you the perfect chance to smash.
Even at the pro level, rallies often come down to who controls the dinking game.
Beginner Pickleball Dinking Tips
Ready to work on your soft game? Here are a few beginner-friendly tips to get started:
1. Use Your Legs, Not Just Your Paddle
Bend your knees and stay low — this helps you keep the ball soft and low over the net.
2. Keep Your Paddle Face Open
An open paddle face with a short backswing helps guide the ball gently into the kitchen.
3. Aim for Consistency Over Perfection
At first, your goal is just to keep the ball in the kitchen. Don’t worry too much about placement — that’ll come with time.
4. Dink Cross-Court
A cross-court dink gives you more space to work with and forces your opponent to move. It’s a great way to take control of the rally.
5. Be Patient
Dinking is a waiting game. Don’t rush it. Keep the ball low, wait for a pop-up, and then go for the finish.
Want to Improve Your Pickleball Skills in Oakville or Burlington?
If you’re looking to sharpen your dinking or work on your overall game, playing regularly is key — and that’s where we come in.
At Blue Zone Courts in Burlington, we offer top-quality indoor pickleball courts available for booking year-round. Whether you’re coming from right here in Burlington or nearby Oakville, it’s the perfect place to learn, practise, and improve — no matter your skill level.
Our indoor setup means no wind, no rain, and no excuses. Just good games, solid rallies, and a great way to connect with your local pickleball community.
Final Thoughts
Dinking might not be flashy, but it’s one of the most valuable shots in pickleball — especially for beginners looking to level up their strategy.
So next time you hit the court, remember: soft is smart. With a little practice and the right court to play on, you’ll be out-dinking your competition in no time.
Book your indoor pickleball court at Blue Zone Courts today and put your soft game to the test.
