🤾 These 3 mistakes are why you’re not improving

Hey reader,

Welcome back to the Pickleheads Newsletter!

In this issue:

🥤 A better-for-you energy drink with electrolytes to help you win
🤾 These 3 mistakes are why you’re not improving
💥 Improve your serve with this ONE tip
🧨 The laziest way to get better at pickleball in 2026

🥤 A better-for-you energy drink with electrolytes to help you win

Most energy drinks promise focus. Few deliver it without the crash.

That’s what made SLAMIT Focus interesting. It’s a caffeine-free performance mix built specifically for pickleball, backed by pros like Anna Bright and Zane Navratil. 

After two weeks of using it on court, many players notice the difference: steadier focus, quicker reactions, and hydration that actually lasts through games.

Instead of caffeine and sugar, SLAMIT Focus uses premium ingredients like Paraxanthine for mental sharpness (instead of caffeine), six electrolytes (most brands use three), real coconut water, and unrefined Baja Gold® Sea Salt.

If you’re looking for a better-for-you energy drink without the jitters or headaches and want energy without the junk and crashes — SLAMIT’s an easy recommendation!

Read my full SLAMIT Focus review

Want to sample SLAMIT's hydration products? We worked with the SLAMIT team to get our readers a FREE sample of SLAMIT Hydrate electrolytes, SLAMIT Focus energy drinks, and other bonus gifts. Just pay shipping.

🤾 These 3 mistakes are why you’re not improving

Stoked to welcome back Tanner from Tanner Pickleball for this week’s Level Up.

Hey Pickleheads readers,

After giving over 1,000 pickleball lessons, I’ve noticed the same three mistakes show up again and again. And they’re usually the reason players stop improving.

First, when you’re not hitting the ball, you can’t just stand there and watch. You need to stay involved. That means being in an athletic position, ready in case the ball gets sped up. If you’re waiting flat-footed, you’ll always be late.

Second, the third shot drop isn’t a winner. Too many players try to hit it aggressively. The goal is simple: get to the kitchen. A softer drop gives the ball time to travel and gives you time to move forward with it.

Third, at the kitchen line, your paddle position matters. If your paddle sits too far to one side, experienced players will attack your shoulder every time. Stay neutral so you can react both ways.

👉 Watch the full video to see each mistake demonstrated and how to fix them fast.

😍 Introducing Pickleheads Plus

ICYMI: A few weeks ago, we rolled out something big… Pickleheads Plus! A simple $1/month upgrade that unlocks the stuff players have been asking for.

With Plus, you can now:

• 🌴 Find & join games while traveling

• 🔍 See players, games, and groups at every court in the world

• 💬 DM players directly to set up your next matchup

If you love getting games in (anytime, anywhere), this one’s for you. 👇

💥 Improve your serve with this ONE tip

🧨 The laziest way to get better at pickleball in 2026

🤌 Generate topspin drives like a pro

Kendall Rooftop Gardens, Cambridge, MA

Urban pickleball doesn’t get much cooler than this!

Set high above the city, the courts at Kendall Rooftop Gardens blend clean design with skyline views and a surprisingly calm vibe.

Glass towers, fresh air, and a pop of green underfoot make every rally feel a little more special. It’s proof that even in the heart of the city, there’s room for great pickleball with a great view.

Fresh takes, spicy debates, and the latest hot paddles & gear – catch up on our latest Court Talk highlights:

• 😍 The paddle Six Zero thinks can top the DBD

• 🎁 My best pickleball Christmas gifts

• 🥤 An electrolyte mix that comes with some serious pickleball cred

• 😍 Six Zero releases a new contender for paddle of the year

Skipped a scroll or two? No worries — here are the last few editions we sent your way:

• 💪 Transition zone aggression

• 🤪 2025: Pickleball’s wild year

• 😍 Speed up, reset, repeat

• 🫡 Back to pickleball mode

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The sponsors of this newsletter support our free tools at Pickleheads. Thanks for reading.